Scope of the test

The test is a Double Antigen Binding Assay (DABA) for the detection of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) in serum or plasma for individual patients who may have been infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus at some time.

Test details

An ’in-house’ double antigen-binding assay method detects anti- SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain antibodies in serum or plasma. The SARS-CoV-2 Hybrid DABA is designed to be sensitive and specific using recombinant protein S1 antigen coated onto the solid phase and recombinant RBD antigen conjugated to Horse Radish Peroxidase (HRP) in the fluid phase. Results are reported as POSITIVE or NEGATIVE for the detection of total antibodies specifically to SARS-CoV-2 RBD. The assay does not discriminate between IgG and IgM.

User instructions

Please send 1 x 4.5ml SST Vacutainer or 2 x 1ml frozen SST serum to:

COVID-19 Serology Team
Variety Wing D
Medical School Building
St. Mary’s Hospital
Norfolk Place
Londo
W2 1PG

Whole blood is to be sent on the same day. The laboratory operates 09.00 to 17.00 on weekdays (excluding bank holidays and College closure days. If delivery cannot be guaranteed by this time, whole blood samples can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Please ensure samples are packaged in accordance with the safety requirements of the courier company and are at least packaged in double containers. Each sample must be accompanied by a request form obtained through the linked request form and must contain the following details: patient clinic number (not the patient’s name), date of birth, sample date, most recent virus load and test required.