Recurrent positive nucleic acid detection in a recovered COVID-19 patient: a case report and literature review

Geling, T.E.N.G.; Xiaolin, Z.H.O.U.; Xuelin, M.E.N.; Hua, H.U.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a case of recurrent positive nucleic acid detection in a recovered coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patient and to provide clinical data for the further study of COVID-19. METHODS: A case of COVID-19 was retrospectively analyzed, and the relevant literature was reviewed. RESULTS: Based on the 6th edition of the COVID-19 treatment plan, the patient met the discharge standards after treatment and was discharged after consultation with the expert panel. Two weeks after discharge, nucleic acid testing of a sputum sample for severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was positive again. There may be various reasons. CONCLUSION: Recurring positive SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid tests pose a formidable challenge, and more stringent discharge standards should be considered. When considering recurrent positive nucleic acid results in COVID-19 patients, the clinicians should have a rational judgment.