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A simplified alternative diagnostic algorithm for SARS-CoV-2 suspected symptomatic patients and confirmed close contacts (asymptomatic): A consensus of Latin American experts

INTRODUCTION: Latin America accounts for one-quarter of global COVID-19 cases and one-third of deaths. Inequalities in the region lead to barriers to the best use of diagnostic tests during the pandemic. There is a need for simplified guidelines that consider the region’s limited health resources, i...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores principales: Fay, Fabian F., Alvarez-Moreno, Carlos Arturo, Bonvehi, Pablo E., Espinoza, Carolina Cucho, Hidalgo, Marco Luis Herrera, Marcano-Lozada, Marcel, Perez, Carlos M., Pulchinelli Jr, Alvaro, Sáenz- Flor, Klever Vinicio, Condino-Neto, Antonio
Formato: Online Artículo Texto
Lenguaje:English
Publicado: Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of International Society for Infectious Diseases. 2022
Materias:
Acceso en línea:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8133827/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/34022333
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijid.2021.05.011
Descripción
Sumario:INTRODUCTION: Latin America accounts for one-quarter of global COVID-19 cases and one-third of deaths. Inequalities in the region lead to barriers to the best use of diagnostic tests during the pandemic. There is a need for simplified guidelines that consider the region’s limited health resources, international guidelines, medical literature, and local expertise. METHODS: Using a modified Delphi method, 9 experts from Latin American countries developed a simplified algorithm for COVID-19 diagnosis on the basis of their answers to 24 questions related to diagnostic settings, and discussion of the literature and their experiences. RESULTS: The algorithm considers 3 timeframes (≤7 days, 8–13 days, and ≥14 days) and presents diagnostic options for each. SARS-CoV-2 real- time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction is the test of choice from day 1 to 14 after symptom onset or close contact, although antigen testing may be used in specific circumstances, from day 5 to 7. Antibody assays may be used for confirmation, usually after day 14; however, if clinical suspicion is very high, but other tests are negative, these assays may be used as an adjunct to decision-making from day 8 to 13. CONCLUSION: The proposed algorithm aims to support COVID-19 diagnosis decision-making in Latin America.