CombiMatrix Corp, Irvine, Calif, has launched single-nucleotide polymorphism microarray genetic diagnostic testing for intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD), commonly known as stillbirth genetic testing.
Mark McDonough, CombiMatrix.
“Our expansion into the underserved IUFD market is a logical extension of our current microarray genetic testing for miscarriage analysis,” says Mark McDonough, president and CEO of CombiMatrix. “We estimate the annual US market for IUFD is $40 million and growing, as more women choose to have children later in life. Our consistent volume and revenue growth in our miscarriage product line since its introduction in the first quarter of 2013 gives us confidence in our commercial team’s ability to capitalize on this expanded market opportunity.”
McDonough says his company’s comprehensive network of partners, in addition to an advantageous reimbursement climate, will support the success of the expanded services. “We will continue to leverage our established relationships with hospital systems, OB/GYNs, maternal fetal medicine specialists, and pathology laboratories to support this market expansion,” he continues. “We also have the benefit of marketing tailwinds that include a growing portfolio of payor contracts and attractive reimbursement rates, as well as the American College of Obstetrician and Gynecologists’ recommendation that microarray testing be used for IUFD.”
“We are committed to providing women and their families with important information regarding the cause of fetal loss as well as the recurrence risk for further pregnancies,” says McDonough, pointing out that data suggest that approximately half of all first trimester miscarriages are due to a fetal chromosomal abnormality. “With microarray analysis, we have a greater likelihood of providing results to women who have suffered a stillbirth in 10 to 12 days, as opposed to the approximately 3 weeks required by karyotyping, which may not yield results.1”
For more information, visit CombiMatrix.
