Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a virus that’s infectious and affects the respiratory system, especially in infants and young children. It can cause serious complications such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and even death. Therefore, timely and accurate diagnosis by a facility such as Response Biomedical Corporation is vital to ensure proper treatment and management. One essential tool in RSV diagnosis is the antigen test.
In this blog post, you’ll look at what this antigen is, how it works, and its importance in diagnosing RSV.
What Is RSV Antigen?
An antigen is a foreign substance that triggers an immune response in the body. The RSV antigen test detects the presence of RSV proteins (antigens) in respiratory secretions such as nasal swabs, throat swabs, and bronchial aspirates. This test is a rapid diagnostic test that can detect the virus within minutes.
How Does RSV Antigen Work?
The RSV antigen test works on a similar principle to a pregnancy test. The sample collected from the patient is added to a test device containing antibodies that detect RSV antigens. If the sample contains RSV antigens, they will bind to the antibodies on the test device, producing a visible line on the test strip. If there are no RSV antigens in the sample, no line will appear.
Importance of RSV Antigen in Diagnosing RSV
Early diagnosis of RSV infection is crucial in managing the disease and preventing complications. An antigen test is a useful tool for diagnosing RSV, especially in infants and children who may have difficulty cooperating with other diagnostic tests such as nasal washes or swabs.
The test’s rapid results allow healthcare providers to start treatment promptly, reducing the risk of complications, hospitalization, and the spread of infection.
