TNTestExpress.com is middle Tennessee's Community COVID Testing Center.  We pride ourselves in offering the latest in FDA and EUA approved Coronavirus testing options.  We often get asked, "What test do I need and why?" Below is a brief breakdown of the three different Coronavirus (COV-SaR-2) tests available, and should help you accurately determine which test is right for you.  However, if you are still unsure, we can help you decide which test will work best for your situation once you arrive for your appointment. 

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PCR Test 

When the COV-SaR-2 virus was first recognized, the PCR Test was the only way to confirm whether a person was infected. The PCR Test is the most accurate test available, and detects the presence of the virus's genetic material using a technique called reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, or RT-PCR. PCR Test results are available within 48-72 hours. Same-day results are available, provided the test is administered before 10:30 AM (Weekdays only)

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The Antigen Test

In September 2020, the FDA approved the first Rapid Antigen Test for Emergency Use.  The Rapid Antigen Tests detect specific proteins on the surface of the coronavirus. Positive antigen test results are highly specific, meaning you are very likely to be infected if you test positive. The COVID-19 Antigen can take up to 6 or 7 days to show up in your system after being exposed to the virus and is best suited for people who have are just starting to have symptoms associated with the virus and need to know right "now." The results of the Rapid Antigen Test are available within 15 minutes. 

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The Antibody Test

The COVID-19 Antibody Test was the first "Rapid" COVID test approved by the FDA with Emergency Use Authorization in May of 2020. The COVID-19 Rapid Antibody Test looks for a specific set of proteins made in response to the virus.  People who think they may have had COVID-19 in the past, and who want to know if they have antibodies to the COVID-19 virus will benefit from this test. It can take between 8 and 14 days once you start showing symptoms for Antibodies to develop in your system.  This test is not for those individuals who need to know if they have an active case of COVID-19  The Rapid Antibody Test results are available within 15 minutes.

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If you have additional questions, you can email Info@TNtestexpress.com with specific questions.