Saliva molecular testing for SARS-CoV-2: simplifying the diagnosis without losing accuracy

Background Quantitative RT-PCR on NasoPharyngeal Swab (NPS) is still considered the standard for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection, even if saliva has been evaluated in several studies as a possible alternative. The use of point of care (POC) platforms, providing highly specific results performed on saliva could simplify the diagnosis of COVID-19 and contribute to contain the spreading of SARS-CoV-2. Methods We assess the sensitivity and specificity of molecular testing performed on saliva in comparison to NPS using two different POC platforms (DiaSorin Simplexa and Cepheid Xpert (R)). NPS and saliva were collected prospectically from asymptomatic health care workers and mildly symptomatic patients. Moreover, the stability of saliva samples after storage at -80 C {degrees} for up to 45 days was tested. Results The obtained results in comparison to NPS demonstrated for both DiaSorin Simplexa and Xpert (R) Xpress a specificity of 100% and a sensitivity of 90.24%. The overall agreement between the tests performed on saliva was 98%. A positive correlation in Ct values detected on saliva and on NPS was identified for all the targets shared by the tests in analysis (Orf1ab, E and N2). Both S Ct values and Orf1ab Ct values were not significantly different before and after the freezing in the tested saliva samples. Conclusion The obtained results demonstrated an overall performance of saliva comparable to NPS, confirming that RT-PCR performed using POCs on saliva could represent a valid public health solution for controlling SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.