Bringing Molecular Precision to Every Test
Epicentre brings world-class molecular diagnostics to South Africans who want certainty in their health results.
Our Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests detect infections at the genetic level, ensuring accuracy unmatched by standard screening methods.
PCR technology has revolutionised infectious disease diagnostics by amplifying small amounts of genetic material, enabling early and highly specific detection even when pathogen levels are low (Mullis & Faloona, 1987; Espy et al., 2006).
What Is PCR Testing?
PCR is a molecular amplification technique that identifies pathogens by detecting their DNA or RNA.
Unlike antigen or antibody tests, which rely on the immune system’s response, PCR directly identifies the presence of the pathogen itself — often before symptoms appear (Kubista et al., 2006).
Epicentre’s laboratories use validated real-time PCR assays and rigorous quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) workflows to ensure reliable, reproducible, and compliant results in line with international standards (Bustin et al., 2009).
What We Test For
Epicentre’s PCR testing panels cover a wide range of conditions:
Respiratory infections: Influenza A & B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and COVID-19
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, HPV, Mycoplasma, Trichomonas, HSV, Syphilis
Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Detection of bacterial and yeast pathogens
Gastrointestinal pathogens: Identification of parasites, bacteria, and viruses causing gut infections
Custom panels: Tailored to partner research projects or clinical collaborations
Each panel is processed in Epicentre’s certified molecular laboratories for precise, validated outcomes.
Why Choose PCR Over Standard Testing
PCR remains the gold standard for diagnosing infectious diseases because of its accuracy, speed, and versatility.
Studies have shown that molecular assays significantly outperform culture-based and antigen-based tests in both sensitivity and specificity (Van Elden et al., 2001; Corman et al., 2020).
| Advantage | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Early Detection | Identifies infections before antibodies develop or symptoms appear. |
| High Accuracy | Detects the pathogen’s DNA/RNA directly, reducing false negatives |
| Quantifiable Results | Allows tracking of infection load and treatment response over time |
| Fast Turnaround | Delivers results within 3-5 days |
| Patient-Friendly Reporting | Clear visual summaries via Epicentre’s ODx Functional Health platform |
How It Works
Testing with Epicentre is simple and stress-free:
1️⃣ Book Online or Walk In – Choose your nearest Epicentre branch.
2️⃣ Sample Collection – Provide a swab, urine, stool, or blood sample depending on your test.
3️⃣ Laboratory Analysis – Processed in Epicentre’s certified molecular lab using real-time PCR technology.
4️⃣ Receive Results – Delivered securely by email or WhatsApp, with optional Functional Health Report interpretation.
At-Home PCR Collection Kits
Epicentre’s home PCR collection kits offer lab-accurate testing from the comfort of your home.
✔️ Each kit includes clear instructions and pre-paid sample return packaging.
✔️ SAHPRA-approved devices
✔️ Discreet, privacy-first packaging
✔️ Validated for all major PCR panels
✔️Secure results in just a few days
At-home testing allows South Africans to take charge of their health conveniently, while maintaining clinical-grade accuracy (Land et al., 2021).
Why PCR Testing Matters
PCR has become central to public health surveillance, disease prevention, and personal healthcare globally.
From the HIV epidemic to the COVID-19 pandemic, PCR testing has played a pivotal role in early detection, treatment monitoring, and limiting transmission (Corman et al., 2020; UNAIDS, 2022).
At Epicentre, we combine this scientific precision with patient-centred care, ensuring that every individual receives accurate, confidential, and easy-to-understand results.
