COVID-19 in adults: test menu for hospital blood science laboratories

Ir J Med Sci. 2020 Nov;189(4):1147-1152. doi: 10.1007/s11845-020-02252-0. Epub 2020 May 18.

Abstract

Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is a respiratory illness caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The Clinical Blood Sciences Laboratory (CBSL) plays a key role in supporting the monitoring and management of patients with COVID-19 disease.

Objective: To provide a comprehensive CBSL testing protocol to support the medical management of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods: Description of the biochemical, haematological and immunological tests that have a role in the assessment and monitoring of patients with COVID-19 infection.

Results: We provide a test menu for clinical laboratories to ensure the effective monitoring, management and prognostication of COVID-19 patients in hospital.

Conclusion: Given the rapidity with which patients with COVID-19 disease can deteriorate, we recommend regular testing with vigilance paid to the rate and trajectory of change in each of these parameters.

Keywords: Blood science testing; COVID-19; Hospital laboratories; Monitoring and management.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Betacoronavirus*
  • COVID-19
  • COVID-19 Testing
  • Clinical Laboratory Techniques*
  • Coronavirus Infections / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pandemics
  • Pneumonia, Viral / diagnosis*
  • SARS-CoV-2