A membrane test (or rapid test) provides qualitative or semi quantitative results in most cases. Due to the easy application and interpretation, rapid tests are used for screenings at points of care like doctors, police, customs and for home use. The most common rapid test is the pregnancy test available in pharmacies and discounters.

True to the principle "form follows function", rapid tests are available in different formats and moulds. Generally there are so called dipsticks, cassettes and midstream tests.

An important pre-condition for development is the assessment of sensitivity and cut-off value, since rapid tests contrary to ELISA tests do not allow an exact quantitative interpretation of results.

The user of a rapid test neither needs any special education in biology or chemistry, nor any reader or further equipment. Usually an interpretation can be done within 2 to 10 minutes.