The Expanding European Market for Immunodiagnostics

The immunodiagnostics market in Europe is expanding because of constant improvements in instrument capabilities and broad test menus. A recent report from Frost & Sullivan (Palo alto, CA, USA) has found that the European immunodiagnostics automation markets earned revenues of U.S.$425 million in 2005, and estimates that this will reach $599.7 million in 2012.

The wide range of integrated analyzers has significantly improved profitability and revenue returns, but declining reimbursement rates and the lack of common industry standards for immunodiagnostic tests may hinder market expansion. This situation will compel in vitro diagnostics (IVD) manufacturers to design innovative strategies.

The need to accommodate and automate increasing test menus is motivating vendors to develop instrument capabilities that can meet modern clinical needs. In addition, growing volumes of tests are obliging laboratories to switch to high throughput systems, which are supporting the adoption and replacement of immunodiagnostic systems.

"The identification of new disease states and expanding test menus are key to market growth,” noted Frost & Sullivan research associate A.K. Arun. "An emphasis on achieving enhanced quality of healthcare is driving researchers to develop cost-effective diagnostic tests that provide better clinical outcomes, propelling the placement rates of analyzers.”

Although the need for, and value of, standardization and validation of assays has been recognized, it will still be necessary to accelerate this process in order to regulate immunodiagnostic procedures. The IVD industry needs to liaise with healthcare officials, the government, and medical communities to highlight the importance of diagnostic tests and appropriate reimbursement.



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