The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the landscape for respiratory diagnostics, and we’re keeping the pace right alongside it. This article talks about the origins of our new multiplex PCR diagnostic solution, which can be deployed on site and deliver results on a comprehensive panel of respiratory targets in about 15 minutes.
When developing the SPOTFIRE Respiratory Solution, bioMérieux had three things in mind:
From the onset, we knew we had to bring the syndromic approach to point-of-care settings. And given that the pandemic highlighted the need for better POC respiratory testing, we turned to the BIOFIRE® Respiratory 2.1 (RP2.1) Panel.
With a target menu of 22 probable pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, the BIOFIRE R2.1 Panel was a game changer during the pandemic. The associated risk with COVID-19 made differential respiratory diagnoses increasingly important, as they helped clinicians determine the appropriate quarantine and treatment measures.
However, the BIOFIRE RP2.1 Panel was created for a laboratory setting, and we needed to bring that same quality of testing to the CLIA-waived market. In that vein, we tailored the SPOTFIRE System’s panel menus to include the most common pathogens that cause respiratory tract infections. We also optimized the chemistry to run faster and perform better. And with that the expanded SPOTFIRE R Panel was born. One PCR test of 15 targets—including 11 viruses and four bacteria—can produce results in about 15 minutes. The targeted SPOTFIRE R Panel Mini, developed alongside the SPOTFIRE R Panel, tests for 5 viral targets in the same time frame, bringing new possibilities and options to clinicians.
Another game-changing element is the user-friendly nature of the SPOTFIRE System interface. Keeping testing in-house may streamline the diagnostic workflow and get answers to patients during their clinic visit, which is why the SPOTFIRE System is designed specifically to be used by non-laboratory professionals.
Speed. Convenience. Accuracy. Satisfaction. This is the recipe for success at the point of care and the foundation for the SPOTFIRE Respiratory Solution. Below is an overview of how the SPOTFIRE R and R Mini Panels on the SPOTFIRE System can fulfill these needs for point-of-care practices.
One swab, one test
The last thing patients want is to have multiple swabs taken in one visit, especially when it comes to children. With one nasopharyngeal sample, the syndromic SPOTFIRE Panels test for the most common causes of respiratory infections.
Fast and accurate results
With results in about 15 minutes, the SPOTFIRE System empowers clinicians to give their patients the answers and informed treatment they need during their visit.
Lab-grade testing onsite
The SPOTFIRE System allows point-of-care clinicians to perform lab-grade PCR testing directly onsite. Its easy interface, streamlined workflow, and small footprint (slightly bigger than a sheet of paper) allow clinicians to easily install the device and run tests in house.
Patient satisfaction and retention
Sending patients home with the correct therapy not only supports antimicrobial stewardship efforts but can potentially help strengthen relationships with the patient.
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