COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2) – serology

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Serologic detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) antibodies
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Virology
Specimen Type	○ Serum

Other Information

○ This test will only determine if a patient has previously developed an adaptive immune response to SARS-CoV-2 (IgG antibodies). It should not be used to diagnose an acute infection. Antibodies do not correlate with recovery or infectivity. It cannot be used to assess whether a person is immune or to determine vaccination status.

○ This test is best suited for pediatric patients suspected to have multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) with a negative, indeterminate, or inconclusive PCR test result or individuals who were not previously tested

○ Consult with UHN/SH medical microbiologist on call for other requests (e.g. clinical scenarios of severe illness with negative COVID-19 PCR test)

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum separator tube (clotted blood) (min volume 5mL)

Collection Requirements

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect a minimum of 5 mL of blood.

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 5 days

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4475

Approval Required

YES; negative COVID-19 PCR test required

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens should be stored and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) after collection

○ UHN/SH Microbiology will refer the original specimen to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing