The T-SPOT®.COVID test: IN CLINIC BY A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL (PREVIOUS INFECTION STATUS)

T cell tests look for evidence of the immune response to COVID-19. The aim is to answer the question: have I been exposed to COVID-19 and produced an immune response?

T cells and antibodies are two arms of the adaptive immune response. The T cell test is intended to detect a T cell-mediated immune response to SARS-CoV-2 and is different to serology (which looks for an Antibody response). The detection and measurement of each method can provide different information about disease activity and an individual’s personal immune response. Antibodies may not be present in everyone who gets infected with SARS-CoV-2 and they may not be detectible after a long period of time. Evidence of a T cell response in the blood suggests previous exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

If current infection is suspected or you want to see if you are carrying COVID-19 now, you need to use an antigen test (PCR test). 

We do not yet know if the presence of SARS-CoV-2 specific T cells gives protection and makes you immune, nor how long any immunity will last. 

If a person is exposed to SARS-CoV-2, their immune system will react in order to start clearing the virus. Part of this response is to produce specific T cells which can either clear virus themselves (Killer T cells – or more correctly, cytotoxic T cells), or support the work of other T cells and of antibodies (Helper T cells). Most patients produce T cells in response to infection or vaccination. The T cell test we use can detect both Killer and Helper T cells. 

The T cell test (the T-SPOT.COVID test) is CE marked and registered for use in the UK by the MHRA. The test is highly accurate and was positive in 96.6 % of a group of previously infected individuals <60 weeks after infection and 83.3 % at >60 weeks after infection. 

In a group of individuals without any history of disease, 98 % of samples tested were negative.

Producing T cells takes some time after initial contact with virus, but T cells may be detectable in the blood before antibodies are.

Venous blood sample

The T cell test was developed for use and has been validated on venous blood samples (blood taken from a vein by a medical professional). The test cannot be performed on samples of blood taken from a finger prick. This is why we only offer the test when a medical professional takes your sample from the vein, as recommended by the manufacturer. 

T cell test results
Your Test Result will be expressed as "Reactive", "Non-reactive" or "Borderline" only. As results are annonymised individual spot counts cannot be accessed. The T-SPOT.COVID test is a qualitative test, not a quantitative test.

What does a ‘reactive’ T cell test result mean?

You have T cells that are reactive to the SARS-CoV-2 specific peptides used in the test. It is highly likely that you have been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

What does a non-reactive T cell test result mean?
You do not have T cells that are reactive to the SARS-CoV-2 specific peptides used in the test. It is therefore unlikely that you have been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

What does a borderline T cell test result mean?
Results near to the test cut off are always difficult to interpret; if you receive a borderline test result it is best to be re-tested.

Results should be used in conjunction with information available from clinical evaluation and other diagnostic procedures. To see a sample Results Page, click here.

• In-clinic testing service in in Central London or Canary Wharf. If you require a same day appointment, and you are not able to book this online, please call 020 3916 5990 and we will see if we can fit you in;
• Home visit from clinic nurse:  we may be able to provide a clinical testing service from the safety of your own home (only available for patients living in central London). Please call contact us for more information.