USE OF EXHALED BREATH CONDANSATE (EBC) AS NONINVASIVE APPROACH FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF CORONAVIRUS SARSCoV-2 AS CAUSE OF RESPIRATORY INFLAMMATION IN C

Summary: This study focuses on diagnosing COVID-19 by detecting SARS-CoV-2 via polymerase-chain-reaction from exhaled breath condensate samples. Introduction. COVID-19 is diagnosed by detection of viral RNA of SARSCoV-2 by the reaction of reverse-transcriptase-polymerase-chain-reaction (RTPCR) from nasopharyngeal and /or oropharyngeal swabs. To date, this is the best sampling approach for detecting coronavirus disease. However, despite negative COVID-19 tests, there were clinical cases that presented symptoms suggesting coronavirus disease. Therefore, it should be considered important to test other bodily fluids for the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and aid in diagnosing patients with suspected COVID-19. Material and methods: The study took place at Regional Municipal NonProfit Facility "Chernivtsi Regional Children's Clinical Hospital» where 14 pediatric patients have been admitted to treat infectious disease. A cohort study included boys – 28,6% and rural residents – 57,1% with an average age of 11,4±0,89. Clinical diagnosis of COVID-19 was confirmed using the Protocol “Medical treatment guidance of coronavirus disease (COVID-19)” № 762 dd. 02.02.2020 with amendments. Laboratory testings, to confirm coronavirus infection, were performed by relevant regional laboratories accredited by the Ministry of Health of Ukraine. Other lab tests and instrumental examinations were performed at hospital facilities. Diagnostic testing was carried out based on clinical and epidemiological characteristics. Nasopharyngeal or naso- and oropharyngeal swabs and exhaled breath condensate (EBC) were used to detect SARS-CoV-2 antigens. EBC and nasopharyngeal swab RT-PCR was confirmed positive for SARS-CoV-2. The patients were examined and recommended treatment in accordance with applicable national standards and protocols