by A recent comprehensive investigation, the largest of its kind, has cast doubt on the accuracy of common laboratory tests in diagnosing Long COVID. The study, published in the prestigious journal “Nature,” analyzed data from over 100,000 individuals who had contracted COVID-19.
The researchers found that many individuals with Long COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), did not exhibit any abnormalities in their routine blood tests. These tests, which include complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests (LFTs), and kidney function tests (KFTs), are often used by healthcare professionals to diagnose various conditions.
However, the study did reveal that some individuals with Long COVID did have elevated levels of certain biomarkers, such as D-dimer and troponin. These markers are typically associated with blood clots and heart damage, respectively. But the researchers noted that these markers could also be present in individuals without Long COVID, making them an unreliable diagnostic tool on their own.
The study’s findings underscore the complexity of diagnosing Long COVID and the need for more comprehensive approaches. The researchers called for further research into the use of other diagnostic tools, such as imaging tests and patient-reported symptoms, to better understand and diagnose Long COVID.
In conclusion, the largest study to date on Long COVID has raised concerns about the reliability of common laboratory tests for diagnosing this condition. While some individuals may exhibit abnormalities in these tests, many do not, making a definitive diagnosis based on lab results alone challenging. The study highlights the need for a more holistic approach to diagnosing Long COVID, incorporating a range of diagnostic tools and patient symptoms.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
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