| Result Description |
| A "Not Detected / Negative" result means the test method did not detect any target genes of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the provided specimen with Ct values ≧ 35. |
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| A "Detected / Positive" result means the test method detected one or more target genes of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the provided specimen with Ct values < 35. |
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| Method |
| This method utilises RT-PCR technology with a CE-IVD approved assay targeting N and ORF1ab genes. Ct values are reported for "Detected / Positive" results only. |
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| Sample sources include throat swabs (TS), nose swabs (NS), combined nose and throat swabs (CNTS), nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS), oropharyngeal swabs (OPS), deep throat saliva (DTS), and stool. |
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| Remarks |
| RT-PCR test results should not be used as the sole criterion for disease diagnosis. For clinical purposes such as suspected early infection, if the result is negative due to low viral load, suggest repeating the test with a new sample if clinically indicated. |
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| PathLab is a HOKLAS ISO 15189:2012 accredited laboratory (number 805S) and HKSAR government-recognized testing institution for COVID-19 testing. |
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| References: |
| 1. HKSARG's notification to use a standardized Ct cut-off (Jan 16, 2023). |
| 2. List of local COVID-19 accredited testing institutions recognized by the HKSAR government. |
| https://www.coronavirus.gov.hk/pdf/List_of_recognised_laboratories_RTPCR.pdf |
| 3. Hybribio COVID-19 RT-PCR kit package insert. |
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