A simple approach to optimum pool size for pooled SARS-CoV-2 testing

Systematic, large-scale testing of asymptomatic subjects is an important strategy in the management of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. In order to increase the capacity of laboratory-based molecular SARS-CoV-2 testing, it has been suggested to combine several samples and jointly measure them in a sample pool. While saving cost and labour at first sight, pooling efficiency depends on the pool size and the presently experienced prevalence of positive samples. Here we address the question of the optimum pool size at a given prevalence. We demonstrate the relation between analytical effort and pool size and delineate the effects of the target prevalence on the optimum pool size. Finally, we derive a simple-to-use formula and table that allow laboratories performing sample pooling to assess the optimum pool size at the currently experienced target prevalence rate..

Medienart:

E-Artikel

Erscheinungsjahr:

2020

Erschienen:

2020

Enthalten in:

Zur Gesamtaufnahme - volume:100

Enthalten in:

International Journal of Infectious Diseases - 100(2020), Seite 324-326

Sprache:

Englisch

Beteiligte Personen:

Francesca Regen [VerfasserIn]
Neriman Eren [VerfasserIn]
Isabella Heuser [VerfasserIn]
Julian Hellmann-Regen [VerfasserIn]

Links:

doi.org [kostenfrei]
doaj.org [kostenfrei]
www.sciencedirect.com [kostenfrei]
Journal toc [kostenfrei]

Themen:

COVID-19
Infectious and parasitic diseases
Pool size
RT-qPCR
SARS-CoV-2
Sample pooling
Testing capacity

doi:

10.1016/j.ijid.2020.08.063

funding:

Förderinstitution / Projekttitel:

PPN (Katalog-ID):

DOAJ001525433