The launch of a COVID-19 diagnostic laboratory in an oncology hospital – A review of guidelines and the laboratory team’s own experiences

Abstract

The first case of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, from whence the virus spread across the world within several weeks. Due to the alarming level of infections, the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced a SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on 12 March. This dynamic and unprecedented epidemiological situation created an urgent need to carry out SARS-CoV-2 tests in individuals meeting the criteria defined for COVID-19 suspect cases. According to the current WHO recommendations, active SARS-CoV-2 infection diagnostics is based on molecular method using a real-time reverse transcription – polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR). Highly specific and sensitive, this method makes it possible to detect even a small amount of RNA particles of the virus in the tested sample. Undoubtedly, the launch of new COVID laboratories and the implementation of adequate procedures increases the effectiveness of activities aimed at directly combatting the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The population of oncological patients is particularly exposed to the risk of complications and death resulting from the SARS-CoV-2 infection; therefore it is essential to ensure them the possibility of quick testing for COVID-19. This article presents the authors’ own experiences as well as technical and formal issues related to the launching of a SARS-CoV-2 laboratory.