Buccal Swabs Replace Phlebotomy for Postnatal and Pediatric DNA Collection

Collection of samples for prenatal and pediatric DNA sequencing procedures is now available via buccal swabs rather than by phlebotomy.

CombiMatrix Corporation (Irvine, CA, USA) a molecular diagnostics company specializing in DNA-based diagnostic services for prenatal, postnatal, and pre-implantation genetic testing has introduced its new Buccal Swab DNA Collection system for the collection of samples to be analyzed with its CombiSNP Array for Pediatric Analysis microarray test.

When using the Buccal Swab system, the patients swabs both cheeks, caps the tube, and then inverts it to mix the DNA with the special preservative solution. Samples are then sent to the CombiMatrix testing laboratory in Irvine (CA, USA), where the DNA is extracted and analyzed on the same test platform as used for blood samples.

"Because of our High Touch service-oriented business model, we are constantly looking for ways to improve our offering to physicians and their patients," said Mark McDonough, president and CEO of CombiMatrix. "The Buccal Swab DNA Collection system is particularly helpful to those physicians who do not have in-house phlebotomy services, and must send their patients to a phlebotomy center. Now, the patient's DNA can be collected in the physician's office without the need for a blood draw. The Buccal Swab DNA Collection system saves patients' time, and offers a painless alternative to a blood draw, which is particularly useful when samples need to be collected from neonatal and pediatric patients. We are excited about offering this option and believe that it will open up new testing avenues for office-based physicians who see patients that require microarray testing. This is largely an untapped market for us until now."

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CombiMatrix Corporation