The difference between antigens and bispecific antibodies

Apr 11, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Shuwen

Introduction

"Antigen" refers to the SARS-CoV-2 antigen test, while "dual-antibody" refers to the SARS-CoV-2 dual antibody test. The two differ in testing methods and what they detect. The SARS-CoV-2 antigen test commonly uses nasal or pharyngeal swabs, collecting secretions from these areas and interpreting results according to the test instructions.

Antigen refers to the SARS-CoV-2 antigen test, while "double antibody" (shuangkang) refers to the dual antibody test for SARS-CoV-2. The differences between these two lie in their testing methods and tested components.

1. Different Testing Methods

The SARS-CoV-2 antigen test commonly uses nasal or throat swabs. Secretions from these areas are collected and analyzed according to the test kit instructions to determine the result. In contrast, the SARS-CoV-2 dual antibody test involves blood sampling and laboratory analysis to detect the presence of IgG and IgM antibodies in the serum.

2. Different Testing Components

The SARS-CoV-2 dual antibody test determines infection by checking whether antibodies in the blood are positive. However, individuals who have recently received a vaccine may also show positive results. On the other hand, the SARS-CoV-2 antigen test uses specialized reagents and assesses the intensity of the test line to confirm whether the result is positive for SARS-CoV-2.

3. Different Patient Suitability

Patients who have recently undergone nasal surgery, those with nasal deformities, or individuals with tonsillitis should not undergo antigen testing. Patients diagnosed with cerebral hemorrhage, cerebral infarction, or similar conditions should avoid the dual antibody test.

If a patient is infected with SARS-CoV-2, isolation measures should be implemented to prevent cross-infection, followed by symptom-based treatment as appropriate.

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Can other viruses affect antigen testing?

In general, whether other viruses affect antigen testing depends on the specific target of the test. For antigen tests targeting a particular virus, most other viruses do not interfere with the results, although there may be rare exceptions. To ensure testing accuracy, it is recommended to follow the instructions for proper sample collection and avoid sample contamination. Before testing, confirm that the reagents are within their expiration date and have been stored under appropriate conditions.

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Can you get reinfected after recovering from Omicron?

If a long period has passed since recovery (more than six months), antibody levels in the body gradually decline, leading to reduced protection; or when encountering new Omicron variants with altered antigen structures, existing antibodies may fail to effectively recognize the virus, potentially breaching the immune barrier and causing reinfection. In addition, individuals with weaker immune systems maintain protective antibodies for shorter durations, thus facing a relatively higher risk of reinfection.

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Can you get infected by opening an antigen test kit box?

Opening an antigen test kit typically does not cause infection; there is no need for concern if the procedure is performed properly and the kit is intact. However, there may be a very low risk of infection if the kit is contaminated or handled improperly. Before performing the test, wash your hands thoroughly and preferably wear disposable gloves. Check that the kit packaging is undamaged and that the product is within its expiration date. After opening, carry out the test promptly according to the instructions.

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Can the antigen test detect the virus immediately after initial contact with a positive case?

If 2–3 days have passed after exposure (longer in some cases), the virus may have completed initial replication in the body, reaching a viral load detectable by antigen tests, and if the individual's immune system has not rapidly cleared the virus, the test may then yield a positive result. However, the exact time to detection varies among individuals and depends on the amount of viral exposure and the strength of the person's immune system.

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Which blood type is prone to hemolysis?

In blood transfusion scenarios, type O red blood cells lack A and B antigens, but the plasma contains anti-A and anti-B antibodies. If a type O patient receives type A, B, or AB blood, the antibodies in the plasma may bind to the antigens on the transfused red blood cells, triggering a hemolytic reaction. Conversely, when type O blood is given by a donor to a non-type O recipient, the antibodies in the donor's plasma may also attack the recipient's red blood cells.

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Is the solution used in COVID-19 antigen tests toxic?

Under normal circumstances, the components of the COVID-19 antigen test solution are non-toxic, but oral ingestion is not recommended. The test solution should be stored out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion. If a small amount is accidentally swallowed, drink plenty of water immediately to help flush out the components, and closely monitor for any physical reactions. Test kits and related supplies should be properly organized and stored separately from food, medications, and other similar items.

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Does receiving too many COVID-19 vaccines make one more likely to get hepatitis B?

The development and production of COVID-19 vaccines are based on antigens related to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The vaccine components do not contain any substances related to the hepatitis B virus. Their mechanism of action is to stimulate the body to produce antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and they cannot cause hepatitis B disease out of nowhere. The causative agent of hepatitis B is the hepatitis B virus, which spreads through blood, mother-to-child transmission, and sexual contact—none of which intersect in any way with the administration of COVID-19 vaccines.

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Is it harmful to humans if the buffer solution from a self-testing COVID-19 antigen kit is applied into the nasal cavity?

In general, whether the elution solution from a COVID-19 antigen self-testing kit is harmful when applied to the nasal cavity depends on the specific circumstances of exposure. Handle the reagents carefully during use to avoid spilling the elution solution. If accidental contact with the nasal cavity occurs, rinse immediately with clean water or saline solution. Store the test kits out of reach of children, and seal the packaging promptly after use. Maintain nasal hygiene and keep the nasal cavity clean and moist.

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