Immunetics Inc, Boston, introduces the updated BacTx® Analyzer for use with its BacTx rapid test for bacteria in whole-blood derived and apheresis platelets.
The instrument offers automated interpretation, tracking, and documentation, increasing transfusion patient safety and providing seamless integration with the lab workplace.
The colorimetric assay, which gives hospitals and blood banks a practical tool for assuring the safety of their platelets, can detect aerobic, anaerobic, gram-negative, and gram-positive bacteria in a single test. It is designed to enable testing closer to time of transfusion, to reduce the risk of transfusing contaminated platelets.
The updated analyzer delivers a faster turnaround of results and new automation and workflow-enhancements. Complete assay results and analysis are delivered within 30 minutes. STAT, control, and standard assay capabilities allow for testing flexibility. Designed for simple, easy integration, the analyzer fits seamlessly into the existing workflow of any lab or transfusion center.
Features include easy and efficient sample preparation; bar code scanning to minimize user input error and maximize efficiency; and random access testing that allows multiple assays to be run at different times.
The BacTx system utilizes a patented, highly specific, universal bacterial detection reagent that has been shown to detect wild and cultured bacterial strains. The assay meets AABB standard 5.1.5.1.1. and can be used for quality-control testing of:
- Leukocyte-reduced apheresis platelets (LRAP) within 24 hours of transfusion, following testing with an FDA-cleared growth-based bacterial detection device.
- Pools of up to six units of leukocyte-reduced whole-blood derived platelets that are pooled within 4 hours of transfusion.
Immunetics will be displaying the BacTx System at the AABB Annual Meeting and CTTXPO in Booth #527.
[Source: Immunetics]
