New Low Cost POC Analysers Introduced at Medica

EKF Diagnostics introduced two new low cost POC analysers at Medica 2012. The EKF stand saw the European launch of the new Quo-Lab glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) analyser for the affordable management of diabetes, as well as a preview of a new strip-based analyser for highly accurate near patient testing of ketosis, the STAT-Site^TM M bHB.

The semi-automated Quo-Lab HbA1c analyser is CE marked and provides highly accurate, affordable and easy-to-use technology for GP surgeries, diabetes clinics and laboratories. HbA1c monitoring is increasingly used in the detection and management of diabetes and Quo-Lab is designed to meet the needs of economies where resources are limited and where diabetes is an increasingly large public health issue. Requiring minimal training and just 4µL of venous or finger prick blood, the small and lightweight Quo-Lab delivers lab-accurate results within four minutes.

EKF also previewed its first strip-based ketone analyser, the STAT-Site^TM M bHB, which promises to take testing for ketoacidosis out of the laboratory and into the emergency room. ß-Hydroxybutyrate (bHB) is the main ketone produced during ketosis and provides a quantitative and accurate assessment of patients displaying symptoms of ketosis.

The launch of STAT Site^TM M bHB follows the recent success of the ß-Hydroxybutyrate (bHB) LiquiColor® Reagent System developed by EKF subsidiary, Stanbio Laboratory. The bHB liquid stable reagent can be used on any open channel analyser and is used by 13 of the USA’s top 25 diabetes and endocrinology hospitals to provide rapid, objective results.