Handheld Immunoanalyzer Performs Laboratory Tests near Patient without Sacrificing Sensitivity and Precision

Near Patient Testing (NPT), also known as Point of Care Testing (POCT), is a rapidly growing area within the field of In vitro diagnostics (IVDs). NPT is now recognized for its key role in making services more patient-centered by bringing diagnostic testing closer to the patient. This shift has the potential to significantly transform the way healthcare services are delivered to patients. By enabling timely diagnosis at the bedside, in community settings, or even in general practice, the delivery of care can be made much more efficient, allowing patients to receive the right diagnosis and treatment in a timely and convenient manner. Now, a handheld portable immunoanalyzer with the sensitivity and precision of centralized laboratory equipment is currently being developed in a form factor suitable for low-cost, point-of-care testing anywhere in the world.

Proxim Diagnostics Corp. (Santa Clara, CA, USA) is developing the Profile System, a portable and fully automated immunodiagnostic device that can run several types of multiplexed assays using disposable cartridges. The system performs critical laboratory tests near the patient using whole blood without sacrificing sensitivity and precision to deliver the most critical information to the doctors right when they need it. The Profile System is battery operated, and offers a touch-screen display interface, along with wireless, Ethernet, and USB connectivity.

Image: The Profile System is a portable and fully automated immunodiagnostic device (Photo courtesy of Proxim Diagnostics)

The handheld device is expected to enhance the ability of clinicians to perform rapid, high-quality testing at the point of care, such as in emergency rooms, intensive care units, nursing homes, community/remote clinics and in-home care, as well as in disaster relief and defense situations. The system is currently available for research use only. Proxim is also developing several immunoassays for sepsis, cardiology, and infectious diseases that can match the sensitivity and precision of tests that are run on larger, centralized laboratory equipment.

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Proxim Diagnostics Corp.