EKF Diagnostics, Cardiff, UK, has globally launched its Stat-Site WB handheld analyzer, which delivers β-ketone and glucose measurements from whole blood in seconds. This action follows the securing of its CE mark certification alongside its FDA CLIA-waiver, meaning that the portable, dual-purpose analyzer is ideal for professional use in the management of diabetes patients.

The Stat-Site WB is used for the quantitative determination of β-ketones (Beta-Hydroxybutyrate or BHB) and glucose in whole blood taken from capillary or venous samples. The easy-to-use analyzer is reagent free, utilizing two different test strips to deliver results in just 10 seconds forβ-ketones and 5 seconds for glucose. 

βHB is used to aid the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with ketosis (diabetic ketoacidosis or DKA). As β-HB accounts for 78% of all ketones present in the body, and is the first to appear during ketosis, it provides the clearest indication of a patient’s condition before and after treatment. The Stat-Site WB is calibrated to the gold standard Liquicolor Beta-Hydroxybutyrate method, meaning that it delivers laboratory accurate results within seconds near to the patient.

The handheld analyzer is simple and intuitive to use, even for inexperienced users. The Stat-Site WB auto-starts when a test strip is inserted and will also automatically detect if it is a BHB or glucose test to be undertaken. Just 1 µL of whole blood is required for direct analysis and the system will also detect and alert if insufficient blood is available. An automatic strip ejection function ensures that cross-contamination is avoided. 

The analyzer uses two 1.5V AAA alkaline batteries, which are easy to obtain and replace, while test strips are available individually foil wrapped or in a vial with a shelf life of 6 months once opened. Results are clearly displayed on a large LCD screen interface with capacity for up to 400 measurements to be stored on the system – these can be downloaded via a mini-USB lead.

“STAT-Site WB provides an affordable, easy-to-use technology that can help to reduce the cost of long-term healthcare of the growing diabetic and pre-diabetic population globally,” says Gavin Jones, head of product management, EKF Diagnostics. “Having direct access to lab quality β-ketone and glucose near patient results ensures the practitioner has the essential data needed to make informed clinical or lifestyle decisions in seconds.”

For more information, visit EKF Diagnostics.