False-negative RT-PCR in SARS-CoV-2 disease: experience from an Italian COVID-19 unit

As of 25 May 2020, a total of 5 304 772 laboratory-confirmed cases and 342 029 deaths due to coronavirus diseases 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported worldwide [1], with the USA, Russia and Brazil being the most involved countries. In the absence of a specific treatment with established efficacy, and while waiting for the development of an effective and safe vaccine, prompt identification and immediate isolation of infected subjects still represent the most important countermeasures to stem the exponential rise in COVID-19 cases and related deaths. False-negative cases of #COVID19 are being increasingly reported. Laboratory diagnosis through RT-PCR testing alone lacks adequate sensitivity to be recommended as the only valid criterion to confirm COVID-19 diagnosis. https://bit.ly/2BLFnEe