Covid 19 , RT PCR and CT value.

After third wave of COVID-19, people are getting tested to detect the fatal infection. While various types of testing can detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the RT-PCR test is considered the gold standard. 

What is a PCR test?

PCR means polymerase chain reaction. It’s a test to detect genetic material from a specific organism, such as a virus. The test detects the presence of a virus if you have the virus at the time of the test. The test could also detect fragments of the virus even after you are no longer infected.

What is a COVID-19 PCR test?

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19 is a molecular test that analyzes your upper respiratory specimen, looking for genetic material (ribonucleic acid or RNA) of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Scientists use the PCR technology to amplify small amounts of RNA from specimens into deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which is replicated until SARS-CoV-2 is detectable if present. The PCR test has been the gold standard test for diagnosing COVID-19 since authorized for use in February 2020. It’s accurate and reliable.

What is CT value in RT-PCR?

Every RT-PCR report underscores an important parameter Cycle Threshold, commonly known as CT value. The value determines whether the individual is COVID-positive or not.

What is the normal CT value in the RT-PCR report?

The Government of India has fixed the CT value at 35. If the CT value is below 35, the person is COVID positive and if above 35, the individual is COVID negative. Globally, the CT value ranges between 35-40 to determine the infection.

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