Candida auris: An Urgent Fungal Threat
Candida auris: An Urgent Fungal Threat
An Urgent Fungal Threat: Tackling Candida auris in Healthcare Environments
Candida auris (C. auris), is an emerging fungal threat that has garnered global attention due to its multidrug-resistant nature and ability to cause severe, life-threatening infections. First identified in 2009, C. auris has quickly spread worldwide, particularly in healthcare settings, posing a significant challenge to both clinicians and public health professionals.
Understanding Candida auris
Candida auris is a yeast-like fungus that can lead to severe infections, especially in patients with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions. It is frequently found in healthcare environments such as hospitals and long-term care facilities. The most concerning aspect of C. auris is its ability to persist on surfaces, increasing the risk of outbreaks in these environments. Once introduced into a healthcare setting, it can rapidly spread from one patient to another, making infection control a significant challenge.
In Illinois alone, 921 C. auris cases were confirmed between 2016 and 2022 (1). Additionally, in 2022, 2377 cases of C. auris were reported to the CDC (2), further highlighting the increase in cases each year. In Europe, survey responses were received from all 30 invited EU/EEA countries. From 2013 to 2021, a total of 1,812 Candida auris cases were reported by 15 of these countries. The number of cases nearly doubled from 335 in 2020 to 655 in 2021, indicating a significant increase compared to previous years (3).
C. auris primarily causes bloodstream infections, but it can also infect wounds, the respiratory tract, and the ear. Patients in critical care, especially those using invasive medical devices such as ventilators, catheters, or feeding tubes, are particularly susceptible. In fact, data indicates that more than one in three people with an invasive C. auris infection affecting the blood, heart, or brain, do not survive (1).
The Growing Threat of Multidrug Resistance
One of the major concerns surrounding C. auris is its resistance to multiple classes of antifungal medications, which are typically used to treat Candida infections. This multidrug resistance often leads to treatment failure and poor outcomes in affected patients. In addition to its drug resistance, Candida auris is often misidentified as other Candida species using standard laboratory methods, further delaying appropriate treatment.
The Importance of Rapid and Accurate Detection
Given the risks posed by Candida auris, rapid detection is crucial for preventing the spread of this dangerous fungus. Early identification allows healthcare professionals to implement strict infection control measures such as isolating patients, cleaning and disinfecting affected areas, and preventing further transmission within healthcare facilities. However, traditional detection methods may be slow and prone to misidentification, making timely response difficult.
Enter Vivalytic
The early identification and containment of Candida auris are essential to prevent large-scale outbreaks. This is especially important in healthcare environments where patients may be vulnerable. The Vivalytic’s rapid detection of C. auris colonisation and infection allows for earlier implementation of infection control measures. This reduces the burden on public health systems and helps save lives.
At Randox Laboratories, the focus is on advancing the detection of infectious diseases like Candida auris. The Vivalytic, developed with Bosch, offers a reliable and accurate testing solution. This supports healthcare providers in protecting patients and controlling the spread of the fungus. Real-time PCR technology is used by the Vivalytic Candida auris test to detect DNA from swabs. These swabs may be taken from the axilla, groin, nasal, or rectal regions.
Key Benefits of Vivalytic Testing for Candida auris:
- Quick Results: The Vivalytic provides results in under 1 hour, enabling healthcare providers to make swift, informed decisions about patient care and infection control. This quick turnaround is essential for both treating the patient and containing the spread of Candida auris within a healthcare facility.
- Simple, 4-Step Process: The test uses a convenient 4-step process, from scanning the sample to receiving the results, making it easy to use in both laboratory and non-laboratory settings. The system’s fully automated, cartridge-based platform minimises the risk of contamination and simplifies workflow.
- Accurate Detection: The real-time PCR method used by Vivalytic ensures precise detection of Candida auris, even in cases where traditional methods might misidentify the fungus. This accuracy is vital in initiating appropriate antifungal treatment and curbing the infection.
- Convenient for Various Settings: The Vivalytic platform is designed to be used in a wide range of settings, from large laboratories to point-of-care environments, making it versatile and adaptable to the needs of different healthcare providers.
| Detectable Pathogens |
|---|
| Candida auris |
References
- dph.illinois.gov. (n.d.). Candida auris (C. auris). [online] Available at: https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/infectious-diseases/candida-auris.html.
- CDC (2024). Tracking C. auris. [online] Candida auris (C. auris). Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/candida-auris/tracking-c-auris/index.html.
- Kohlenberg, A., Monnet, D.L. and Plachouras, D. (2022). Increasing number of cases and outbreaks caused by Candida auris in the EU/EEA, 2020 to 2021. Eurosurveillance, 27(46). doi:https://doi.org/10.2807/1560-7917.es.2022.27.46.2200846.
Randox Attend 2024 Grand National Winning Yard
Randox Laboratories Visits W.P. Mullins’ Yard – Celebrating Success at the 2024 Grand National
Randox Laboratories were thrilled to attend the prestigious 2024 Grand National Winners Yard at W.P. Mullins’ state-of-the-art stables in County Carlow. As the proud sponsors of the Grand National, we had the opportunity to witness first-hand the dedication, precision, and care that go into training champions.
W.P. Mullins, continues to set the standard with his exceptional achievements, including the 2024 winner of the world’s greatest steeplechase I am Maximus.
Randox are grateful to have the opportunity to celebrate the hard work and passion that define winners like W.P. Mullins and his team.
Thank you to everyone at the yard for a warm welcome and an exciting experience!
Check out some of the highlights of our trip below!
Randox Testing Services – Drug and Alcohol Testing
At Randox Testing Services, we provide reliable and cost-effective drug and alcohol testing solutions for a wide range of industries. Sectors we work with include aviation, maritime, manufacturing, and more. Additionally, our Collection Officer Network operates 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year with a target call-out time of 2 hours. With over 40 years of experience in the diagnostics industry, our services not only ensure safety but also compliance in workplaces across the UK and Ireland.
We understand that every industry has unique needs, which is why we craft customised testing packages to meet specific workplace requirements. Whether it’s random testing to deter substance abuse or post-incident testing following an accident, we offer flexible solutions that cater to your business’s safety priorities. Furthermore, our expertise is trusted by industries ranging from safety-critical sectors to the medico-legal field such as family law, ensuring that our clients receive accurate, reliable, and legally defensible results.
- Pre-Employment Testing: Essential for ensuring candidate suitability and maintaining a safe environment for your current workforce.
- Random Testing: A highly effective deterrent for substance abuse, as employees are aware they could be tested at any time, ensuring integrity across all levels of the organisation.
- With-Cause Testing: Conducted when there is suspicion or allegations of drug or alcohol abuse in the workplace, or when drugs and alcohol have been found.
- Post-Incident Testing: Occurs after an accident or incident to determine if drugs or alcohol played a role.
- Abstinence Testing: Used to monitor employees who previously tested positive to ensure they remain abstinent from substance misuse.
We utilise discreet and non-invasive methods for sample collection, offering options such as urine, hair, oral fluid, breath or a combination of these. This enables both short-term and long-term drug profiling. Moreover, our testing methods are designed to suit your organisation’s needs and ensure accuracy and reliability in detecting drug and alcohol use. Each sample is handled following strict chain of custody procedures to guarantee sample integrity from collection to reporting.
We follow a thorough and professional process to deliver tailored drug and alcohol testing solutions:
-
- Consultation: We start with a free consultation to discuss your requirements and create a customised testing package.
- Policy Creation: We help develop a clear and concise workplace drug and alcohol policy that outlines employer rights while protecting employees.
- Policy Implementation: Our training and educational services help you effectively communicate the policy to your team.
- Sample Collection: Our trained officers collect samples at a time and location that suits you, maintaining sample integrity throughout the process.
- Sample Analysis: Using our advanced Biochip Array Technology, we screen samples for a wide range of substances, ensuring reliable and accurate results.
- Results Reporting: Results are delivered confidentially via our secure web portal, with options for alternative methods if preferred.
We test for a wide range of drugs across different panels using both instant testing kits and lab-based confirmatory analysis. This flexibility allows us to meet the diverse needs of our clients, ensuring all substances of concern are covered. Substances include:
| Substances Tested | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Amphetamine | Phencyclidine | Alcohol | LSD |
| Buprenorphine | Cannabinoids | Barbiturates | Opioids |
| Benzodiazepine | Oxycodone | Benzodiazepine 1 | Mephedrone |
| Cocaine Metabolite | Tramadol | Benzodiazepine 2 | Pregabalin |
| Methadone | EDDP | Methaqualone | Gabapentin |
| Methamphetamine | Ketamine | Fentanyl | Zolpidem |
| Opiates | MDMA/Ecstasy | Propoxyphene | Zopiclone |
- Expertise across various industries, including workplace and medico-legal
- Accurate and reliable testing methods
- Global network of trained sample collection officers
- Customised training and education seminars
- Free policy review and consultation
Randox Testing Services is committed to helping businesses enhance workplace safety, reduce absenteeism, and ensure compliance with drug and alcohol regulations. Contact us today at testingservices@randox.com or call +44 (0) 28 9445 1011 to speak with one of our experts.
Kate Middleton’s diagnosis reminds us that early detection is key
Kate Middleton’s recent cancer diagnosis has highlighted the importance of early detection to us all. Detecting potential health issues early means individuals can work with healthcare professionals to implement treatment plans, lifestyle changes, or preventative measures. These could mitigate, or even prevent the progression of certain diseases.
An article published by the Daily Mail, which focuses on early cancer detection MOT’s, emphasises the importance of preventative testing and treatment throughout. Charlotte Griffiths, who underwent our Everywoman Plus Tumour-Associated Markers test, stated that it is vital to keep a watchful eye for any unexpected bodily changes, such as unexplained bumps or weight loss, which may indicate a presence of cancer.
At Randox Health, we test for a range of different tumour markers, as well as genetic testing, to deliver information on cancer risk to an individual. This aims to empower people to be proactive towards improving their health and makes them aware of any potential future health risks they may have.
It is estimated that 30-50% of all cancer cases are avoidable, and in many cases, early detection is key and can save lives. Cancer that’s diagnosed at an early stage, when it isn’t too large and hasn’t spread, is more likely to be treated successfully.
Spotting cancer at an early stage can save lives, however many people do not have access to the information or services to facilitate this detection. Over 8 million people in the UK are currently awaiting diagnostic testing. At Randox Health, with over 40 years’ experience in working towards improving healthcare worldwide, we have a focus on preventative healthcare; aiming to achieve better health outcomes whilst reducing the burden on clinical services.
At Randox Health we offer genetic risk tests for inherited cancers, including Breast and Ovarian Cancer, Bowel Cancer, and others. In addition, we offer a range of full-body health tests that include common tumour-associated markers.
The results from your tests allow you to get a more accurate representation of your current health status, as well as giving you the ability to make lifestyle changes to potentially prevent future health risks.
Discover our health checks at randoxhealth.com
Randox Collaborate with Transgene in the Field of Bioengineering
Randox are delighted to announce the recent publication of a scientific paper ‘Design and selection of anti-PD-L1 single domain antibody and tumor necrosis factor superfamily ligands for an optimal vectorization in an oncolytic virus.’ The scientific paper showcases the innovative collaboration between Transgene and Randox in the field of bioengineering.
Claire Huguet, PhD (Randox, Head of Biomarker Sciences), introduces the paper.
“Transgene and Randox Laboratories Ltd entered into a scientific collaboration several years ago, with the aim of joining their competences to deliver a novel therapeutic approach to oncology therapies. With Transgene being a world leader in the field of oncolytic viruses and Randox being recognised for its capabilities in targeted antibody discovery, it was a natural synergistic move for Randox to generate a unique, fully blocking PDL-1 sdAb for Transgene to include as a payload in their oncolytic virus vector.
The following research paper, just published in Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, summarizes the properties of the vectorized construct, which together with additional payloads, constitutes a promising approach to the development of potent anticancer immunomodulating therapies.”
Wish to read more?
World Diabetes Day
World Diabetes Day!
14th November
Diabetes is a life-long condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes blood sugar levels to become abnormally high, which poses a significant danger to your body. Although it’s incurable, it can be monitored and controlled.
Randox Laboratories provide a range of diabetes related diagnostic reagents, that cover many areas from disease recognition and diagnosis to monitoring symptoms and complications associated with the condition.
The three main types of Diabetes are Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational Diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes starts in early childhood, and is caused by a deficiency in the production of insulin by the pancreas. It can be both inherited and acquired. Daily monitoring is required, along with the administration of insulin. Type 1 is when your body can’t naturally produce the hormone insulin, vital for the transportation of glucose in the blood to the cells to energize and fuel our bodies. Your body attacks cells within the pancreas, meaning the body is unable to produce insulin. Without insulin there is no glucose getting into bodily cells, so it builds up in your blood stream causing high blood sugar levels.
Type 2 manifests later in life, it’s when the body produces insulin but does not use it effectively. Can be referred to as insulin resistance. It is more common than Type 1 and usually can be the cause of lack of exercise and excess body fat. However, regardless of weight it can occur in any individual. Type 2 diabetes can be regulated by your diet. Without treatment or action, diabetes can cause many serious problems like damaging the eyes, feet and heart. Some symptoms may include urinating more than usual, feeling lethargic, weight loss, blurred vision and wounds or cuts taking longer to heal.
Gestational diabetes is the development of the condition during pregnancy. It is the result of the body being unable to produce enough insulin to meet the extra needs of the baby and mother. It can cause serious problems if not controlled, to reduce the risks Gestational diabetes is consistently monitored.
Randox Laboratories provide an extensive range of reagents for the accurate testing of diabetes. One of the reagents is Fructosamine in which ‘testing has been identified as being the best for patient care’.
Fructosamine & HbA1c
Fructosamine is a mid-term indicator of diabetic control, as it can provide information on a person’s average blood glucose levels over the previous 14-21 days. Because of it’s shorter time span, it’s often used to evaluate the effectiveness of medication changes and to monitor the treatment of gestational diabetes.
Fructosamine is also particularly useful in situations where HbA1c cannot be reliably measured e.g. haemolytic anaemia, thalassemia or with genetic hemoglobin variants.
HbA1c for example – gives us an indication of what an individual’s average blood sugar level has been over recent weeks/months. This is significant for those who suffer from diabetes because the higher the levels of HbA1c, the higher the chance of an individual suffering from further diabetes related issues.
The latex enhanced immunoturbidimetric method which the RX series utilises makes, the test simple and quick to perform. The removal of the pre-dilution step removes the risk of human error compromising your results. Certified by the National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program (NGSP), the RX daytona+, RX imola & RX modena are all capable of utilising direct on-board HbA1c which can revolutionise your diabetes testing capabilities.
D-3-Hydroxybutyrate (Ranbut)
D-3-Hydroxybutyrate (Ranbut) is another reagent Randox provides. D-3-Hydroxybutyrate is the most abundant of the three main ketones produced in the body, accounting for 75% of total ketones in the body. Due to the higher levels of D-3-Hydroxybutyrate, it is the more sensitive marker for the diagnosis of ketosis.
Ketosis is a metabolic process, occurring when the body switches from glucose to predominantly fat metabolism for energy production, this happens when carbohydrate availability reaches low levels. The metabolism of fatty acids in the liver, results in the production of chemical by-products known as ketone bodies or ketones. Ketosis occurs when the body produces more ketones than the liver can process.
High levels of ketones present in the body can be dangerous leading to Diabetic Ketoacidosis, which being left untreated can cause damage to vital organs and in some instances may lead to a coma or death.
Benefits of Ranbut include;
• Superior methodology when compared to other commercially available ketone detection tests. For example, the nitroprusside method used in semi-quantitative dipstick tests only detects acetone and acetoacetate. D-3 hydroxybutyrate is the most abundant ketone produced during ketosis the measurement of this analyte is more sensitive and specific.
• Exceptional correlation coefficient of r=0.9954 when compared against other commercially available methods.
• Excellent precision of <3.5% CV.
• Calibrator and controls available offering a complete testing package.
• Applications available detailing instrument-specific settings for the convenient use of the Randox D-3- Hydroxybutyrate (Ranbut) assay on a wide range of clinical chemistry analysers.
• New liquid stable Ranbut assays available.
Non-Esterified Fatty Acids (NEFA)
Non-Esterified Fatty Acids is another reagent Randox provides, which are important metabolites stored in adipose tissue. The dominant source of NEFA is abdominal subcutaneous fat. Cross-sectional studies have consistently documented that circulating NEFA levels are proportional to body fat storage and demonstrated positive correlations between fasting NEFA levels and obesity, insulin resistance and glucose tolerance. It too is an accurate marker regarding diabetes.
Non-Esterified Fatty Acids concentrations are strongly associated with insulin resistance. In the fasting state, the resistance of adipose tissue to the antilipolytic effect of insulin causes the extensive release of NEFA into circulation. Consequently, elevated NEFA levels exacerbate insulin resistance through diminishing insulin- stimulated glucose intake into the skeletal muscle, directly affecting insulin signalling.
Benefits of NEFA include;
• Exceptional correlation coefficient of r=0.98 when compared against other commercially available methods.
• Excellent precision of <5% CV.
• Extensive measuring range of 0.072- 2.24mmol/l for the comfortable detection of clinically important results.
• Calibrator and controls available offering a complete testing package.
• Applications available detailing instrument-specific settings for the convenient use of the Randox NEFA assay on a wide range of clinical chemistry analysers.
Randox’s Reagents available for diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes.
Fructosamine
Glucose
HbA1c
Albumin
Creatinine
Cystatin C
D-3-Hydroxybutyrate
Microalbumin
Non-Esterified Fatty Acids
‘The Randox enzymatic method offers, improved specificity and reliability compared to the conventional NBT-based methods, as the enzymatic method does not suffer from non-specific interferences, unlike the existing methods which can also be time-consuming and difficult to automate. The Randox dedicated Fructosamine calibrator and controls are assigned relative to human serum glycated with 14-C glucose, directly reflecting the nature of the patient sample. Randox provides testing and reagents that are reliable and accurate.’
References
Anon (2023) Types of diabetes, Diabetes UK. Available at: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/diabetes-the-basics/types-of-diabetes (Accessed: 19 September 2023).
NHS (2023) Symptoms of Diabetes, NHS Choices. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/type-2-diabetes/symptoms/ (Accessed: 19 September 2023).
Randox (2023) Diabetes Reagents: Biochemistry: Reagents, Randox Laboratories. Available at: https://www.randox.com/diabetes-reagents/ (Accessed: 19 September 2023).
Randox (2023b) Fructosamine: Reagents: Biochemistry, Randox Laboratories. Available at: https://www.randox.com/fructosamine/ (Accessed: 20 September 2023).
National Cholesterol Month
National Cholesterol Month
Foe or Friend? Your Health is your Wealth.
It’s National Cholesterol Month, time to raise awareness on the dangers high cholesterol can have on your body and the strain it can have on your precious heart, the centre piece and vital organ that keeps you alive and pumps blood to every corner of your body.
Cardiovascular disease is the leading killer, claiming 17.9 million lives globally each year. 80% of these are due to strokes and heart attacks. Its not too late to get checked out and to alter your lifestyle habits.
Randox Laboratories provides a comprehensive range of reagents for Cardiovascular disease with sdLDL providing detailed testing of cholesterol levels and overall Cardiovascular Health, see more in the blog below.
Cholesterol can be a friend, but it can also be a foe. Maybe you associate bad cholesterol with the result of being overweight, this is not always the case, without a balanced diet, essential exercise, you are at risk of being in the cholesterol danger zone.
Small dense Low-Density Lipoprotein (sdLDL) carries cholesterol to and from cells in the body, it is one of two proteins. However, it is more atherogenic than LDL cholesterol meaning it has a higher tendency to leave fatty deposits in the blood and has a greater ability to block arteries.
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is key for progression and development of cardiovascular disease and plague build up (atherosclerosis). LDL has a couple of subclasses sdLDL being one, making it a more reliable marker for the discovery and testing of cardiovascular issues.
sdLDL has a significantly greater atherogenic potential than LDL sub-group. This makes the portion of sdLDL a better marker to predict cardiovascular disease and issues than LDL. It provides a greater understanding of lipoprotein risk within patients; it is more comprehensive in detecting cardiovascular risk in comparison to the original LDL-C test. It is a valuable screening tool in allowing to detect for diseases and abnormalities in the cardiovascular system. As sdLDL-C is particularly atherogenic, a person with elevated sdLDL-C levels has a 3-fold increased risk of myocardial infarction.
Randox provides the “only direct automated sdLDL-C kit on the market, The Randox sdLDL-C ‘Ex-Seiken’ test is a direct method for the quantitative determination of sdLDL-C using automated chemistry analysers, capable of accommodating two-reagent assays. The assay consists of two steps and is based on the use of well-characterised surfactants and enzymes that selectively react with certain groups of lipoproteins.”
Benefits include,
- Direct, automated test for convenience and efficiency
- Rapid analysis results can be produced in as little as ten minutes, facilitating faster patient diagnosis and treatment plan implementation.
- Good correlation to the gold standard ultracentrifugation method
- Liquid ready-to-use reagents for convenience and ease of use
- Applications available detailing instrument specific settings for a wide range of analysers
- Clearance method sdLDL-C controls and calibrator available.
Foe or Friend? Your Health is your Wealth.
References
Fernandez-Alvarez R, Gonzalez-Rodriguez AP, Gonzalez E, Rubio-Castro A, Dominguez-Iglesias F, et al. Serum Ferritin as Prognostic Marker in Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma Treated With ABVD-based Therapy. Leukemia & Lymphoma . 2015;56(11):3096-3102.
Randox (2023) Ferritin: Reagents, Randox Laboratories. Available at: https://www.randox.com/ferritin/ (Accessed: 20 September 2023).
Rosário C, Zandman-Goddard G, Meyron-Holtz EG, D’Cruz DP, Shoenfeld Y. The hyperferritinemic syndrome: macrophage activation syndrome, Still’s disease, septic shock and catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome. BMC Medicine . 2013;11(185).
Sharma J, Sharma R. A prognostic marker in patients with sepsis in pediatric age group: A prospective cohort study. International Journal of Medical and Health Research . 2018;4(3):86-89.
The Royal College of Pathologists. Guidance on the Use and Interpretation of Clinical Biochemistry Tests in Patients with COVID-19 Infection.; 2020. Accessed September 18, 2023. https://www.rcpath.org/uploads/assets/3f1048e5-22ea-4bda-953af20671771524/G217-RCPath-guidance-on-use-and-interpretation-of-clinical-biochemistry-tests-in-patients-with-COVID-19-infection.pdf
World Health Organisation. WHO Guideline on Use of Ferritin Concentrations to Assess Iron Status in Individuals and Populations.; 2020. Accessed September 18, 2023. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240000124
World Heart Day
World Heart Day!
The powerhouse of the body, beating 100,00 times every day, pumping eight pints of blood, through an intertwining network of blood vessels. Delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles and the vital organs of the body. The centrepiece, what keeps us alive, the heart!
Why put strain on the very thing that keeps us alive? The heart is the most important muscle working constantly, embracing a healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of developing a stroke or heart attack, and can prevent cardiovascular disease. No matter your age young or old, you can begin to take care of your heart. Making healthier choices, watching what you eat, exercising regularly are all good habits to start or continue to look after your precious heart.
Randox Laboratories offer a wide selection of Reagents specifically for Lipid testing. Lipid tests are the most important cardiac risk tests. They assess an individual’s risk of a stroke or heart attack and can provide an indication if someone is going to have a cardiac episode, caused by blockages of arteries and blood vessels. Lipid tests screen for abnormalities of cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, allowing for preventative measures to take place to reduce the chances of cardiovascular diseases.
Complete lipid profiles consist of HDL Cholesterol, LDL Cholesterol, Total Cholesterol and Triglycerides. These profiles measure the current cholesterol and triglycerides levels also, measuring potential emerging risk factors of cardiovascular disease.
‘Benefits of Randox’s Lipid testing includes;
Enhanced convenience with liquid ready-to-use reagents (Triglycerides kits also come in lyophilised form)
Excellent correlation to reference methods for security of accurate results
Applications for a wide range of clinical chemistry analysers
Wide measuring ranges able to comfortably detect abnormal lipid levels.
Cost effectiveness for even small throughput labs – all lipid assays are stable to expiry when stored at 2-8⁰C (except for Triglyceride kits, stable for 21 days)’
Randox provides the “only direct automated sdLDL-C kit on the market, The Randox sdLDL-C test, is a direct method for the quantitative determination of sdLDL-C using automated chemistry analysers, capable of accommodating two-reagent assays. The assay consists of two steps, and is based on the use of well-characterised surfactants and enzymes, that selectively react with certain groups of lipoproteins.
Benefits include,
Direct, automated test for convenience and efficiency
Rapid analysis results can be produced in as little as ten minutes, facilitating faster patient diagnosis and treatment plan implementation.
Good correlation to the gold standard ultracentrifugation method
Liquid ready-to-use reagents for convenience and ease of use
Applications available detailing instrument specific settings for a wide range of analysers
Clearance method sdLDL-C controls and calibrator available.
One of Randox’s Reagents offered is the Lipoprotein (a) assay known as Lp(a). It is similar to LDL cholesterol but a lot more viscous.
High levels of lipoprotein can clog arteries very easily, leading to the potential of a stroke or cardiovascular disease at any age. Lp(a) is made in the liver containing fat and protein, their main role is to carry lipids around the body. Lp(a) remains relatively stable over a lifespan and is determined predominantly through genetics. Just a single Lp(a) test is believed to be enough to improve accuracy of a cardiovascular risk assessment. Repeat testing can also be initiated if a secondary cause is suspected, or therapeutic measures to lower Lp(a) levels have been investigated.
Benefits of the Lp(a) assay;
WHO/IFCC Reference Material
Dedicated Five-Point Calibrator Available
Excellent Correlation
Excellent Precision
Liquid Ready-To-Use
Applications Available
References
BHF (2023) How your heart works, British Heart Foundation. Available at: https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/how-a-healthy-heart-works (Accessed: 19 September 2023).
Family Doctor (2023) Keeping Your Heart Healthy, familydoctor.org. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/keeping-heart-healthy/ (Accessed: 19 September 2023).
Heart UK (2023) High lipoprotein(a), What Is High lipoprotein(a)? | Cholesterol Conditions | HEART UK. Available at: https://www.heartuk.org.uk/genetic-conditions/high-lipoproteina (Accessed: 20 September 2023).
Randox (2023b) Lipid: Reagents, Randox Laboratories. Available at: https://www.randox.com/lipid-reagent (Accessed: 19 September 2023).
Ferritin-Blog
Ferritin Assay
Ferritin, a protein but also an indicator of the body’s iron levels and stores is valuable when tested alongside other proteins and lipids to identify the function of muscle metabolism, transporting oxygen and DNA synthesis.
Anaemia is the cause of iron deficiency, a shortage of red blood cells resulting in the stores being inadequate in meeting the necessary needs for metabolism. Literature has identified that this could be the result of haemolysis and excessive bleeding. Testing regarding Ferritin, renal function and glucose are used to determine the sole cause of anaemia. Some symptoms of this deficiency include extreme fatigue, decreased productivity, diminished physical performance and significantly reduced immunity. However, in stark contrast having an over accumulation of iron in the body can be the result of hereditary disorders of haemochromatosis and thalassaemia.
Iron seeks to bind with a protein as it’s very reactive as a biomarker, so while being stored in cells iron binds to Ferritin, this in turn makes Ferritin an ideal predictor of iron reserves. Toxicity from elemental iron causes tissue damage and collates free radicals. Excess iron collated in the body over time causes serious damage to the liver and vital organs, causing liver failure, cirrhosis, skin pigmentation, heart failure and arrythmia. There is no way to eliminate excess iron from the body, so regulation of iron stores is vital to check of changes in iron absorption. As Ferritin is the primary iron storage, without it iron levels cannot be regulated and can cause serious damage.
Ferritin itself is produced on a very small level before being released in the bloodstream. During inflammation episodes, due to infections, rare conditions or even obesity, Ferritin levels can become significantly elevated. It poses as a challenge to accurately diagnose iron deficiency and can unfortunately lead to a misled evaluation regarding the possible overload of iron. This issue is being worked on to resolve and be able to accurately measure iron levels while inflammation is present. CRP may also be used as an aid to help rule out the elevated Ferritin levels from the cause of inflammation.
Ferritin is described as ‘an intracellular hollow protein’, comprised of around 4500 iron atoms within the iron core, surrounding the core are 24 subunits. In contrast, a reduced Ferritin level in serum indicates a deficiency and or depletion of iron stores, however it may not determine advanced depletion.
Randox Laboratories offer an accurate Ferritin Assay, used to detect iron levels and aid in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as anaemia.
‘Benefits of the Ferritin Assay include’.
Wide measuring range of 5.08 – 443 mg/dl for the accurate detection of clinically important results
Automated immunoturbidimetric assay eliminating the need for any dedicated equipment.
Liquid ready-to-use reagents for convenience and ease-of-use
Stable to expiry when stored at +2 to +8°C.
Applications available detailing instrument-specific settings for the convenient use of the Randox Ferritin assay on a wide range of biochemistry analysers
Complementary controls and calibrators offering a complete testing package.
Some clinical points to note include. Ferritin has been observed in 89% of patients with Adult-Onset Stills Disease, there have been elevated Ferritin levels of five times the normal range in over half of patients with this disease. COVID-19 critically ill patients experienced elevated concentrations, along with Sepsis patients that are not recovering also experience a stark increase in their Ferritin levels.
Click the link below to find out more on our Ferritin Assay!
References
Fernandez-Alvarez R, Gonzalez-Rodriguez AP, Gonzalez E, Rubio-Castro A, Dominguez-Iglesias F, et al. Serum Ferritin as Prognostic Marker in Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma Treated With ABVD-based Therapy. Leukemia & Lymphoma . 2015;56(11):3096-3102.
Randox (2023) Ferritin: Reagents, Randox Laboratories. Available at: https://www.randox.com/ferritin/ (Accessed: 20 September 2023).
Rosário C, Zandman-Goddard G, Meyron-Holtz EG, D’Cruz DP, Shoenfeld Y. The hyperferritinemic syndrome: macrophage activation syndrome, Still’s disease, septic shock and catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome. BMC Medicine . 2013;11(185).
Sharma J, Sharma R. A prognostic marker in patients with sepsis in pediatric age group: A prospective cohort study. International Journal of Medical and Health Research . 2018;4(3):86-89.
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Sexually Transmitted Infections ā Rapid Testing at the Point of Care
Urgency, Challenges and Advances in STI Testing
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major global health issue, with over 30 pathogens causing an estimated one million infections daily, a number that is rising. Surveillance programs in countries like the United States and Canada have reported an increase in STIs such as syphilis, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia. STIs can have serious consequences for sexual health, including infertility and chronic pelvic pain, particularly affecting women. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognised the urgency of addressing this problem and has recommended measures to end the STI healthcare issue by 2030. Integrated testing, including multiplex and point-of-care testing, is considered essential. However, implementation of these recommendations at regional and national levels is lacking. Rapid point-of-care PCR tests that can detect multiple pathogens simultaneously would greatly improve STI diagnosis and containment. Currently, Randox, in collaboration with Bosch offers two STI test panels on the Vivalytic POC system: Vivalytic STI and Vivalytic MG, MH, UP/UU panels, capable of detecting multiple pathogens in a single test run, with results available within hours.
The Global Burden
- The WHO estimates 374 million new infections of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis annually.
- Chlamydia is the most frequently reported STI in Europe, followed by gonorrhoea and syphilis.
- Countries with comprehensive STI screening programs, like Denmark, have higher prevalence rates than the European average.
- The UK has a comprehensive screening program for chlamydia targeting 15-24-year-olds, with cases accounting for 60% of total cases in the European Region.
- The actual infection rate in countries without systematic screening is likely higher than official figures suggest.
- Reported cases of gonorrhoea and syphilis in the European Region have increased, particularly among certain age groups and higher numbers in men than women.
Gaps in Current STI Testing Strategies
The European Centre for Disease Prevention (ECDC) acknowledges the growing concern of STIs in Europe and emphasises the importance of testing in their recent report. While various European countries have screening programs for chlamydia, testing options for other STI pathogens are usually limited. The lack of accessible testing, combined with the prevalence of asymptomatic infections, increases the risk of STI transmission and hampers containment efforts. Prevention campaigns and low-threshold testing opportunities are crucial to address the spread of STIs. The UK’s chlamydia screening program, implemented in 2008, demonstrated the benefits of community-based testing services and led to a significant increase in diagnosed cases, reducing the number of unreported cases.
Infections and Co-Infections
- Co-infections, where multiple sexually transmitted pathogens are present simultaneously, are common but often go undetected due to limited testing.
- Symptoms of co-infections can be difficult to differentiate since different pathogens can cause similar or overlapping symptoms.
- However, most STIs, even in high-risk groups, are caused by a single sexually transmitted pathogen.
- In cases where co-infections need to be detected, a rapid and comprehensive differential diagnosis of sexually transmitted pathogens is crucial for initiating appropriate therapy promptly.
The Importance of Rapid Results at the Point of Care
- Rapid detection and treatment of STIs are crucial to prevent further spread.
- Traditional STI diagnostics in specialized laboratories can result in delays of several days or up to 1-2 weeks until test results are available to the physician.
- Delays occur due to transportation of samples, laboratory workflow, result transfer, and scheduling additional appointments.
- The delay in treatment initiation can lead to decreased patient compliance and missed appointments.
The Vivalytic STI test provides results directly at the point of care (POC) in less than two and a half hours. It eliminates the need for sample transportation to a central laboratory. In addition, patients can receive their test results on the same day of the visit, allowing for immediate initiation of appropriate treatment.
In a Nutshell
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) spread due to various factors. Many STIs do not show symptoms, resulting in numerous unreported and untreated cases that can have fatal consequences depending on the specific pathogen. Increasing awareness and implementing a decentralised low-threshold testing strategy can significantly reduce infections, particularly among high-risk groups. Speed and comprehensive testing of relevant pathogens are crucial for targeted therapy and containing STIs. Rapid PCR tests used at the point of care (POC) are emerging as important technologies due to their advantages. Patients receive same-day results and immediate treatment, providing clarity in just one visit. Clinicians can provide up-to-date diagnoses and treatments, even in decentralised or hospital settings, benefiting high-risk patients with limited access to healthcare.
Vivalytic
The Bosch Vivalytic, is an advanced and automated platform for molecular diagnostics that utilises PCR to detect pathogens. It offers applications for various medical disciplines and requires only a few steps from sample collection to obtaining results. The patient sample is processed automatically within the Vivalytic analyser, and the test result is displayed on its integrated screen. The time it takes to get results depends on the specific Vivalytic application. For the STI Panel, which simultaneously detects 10 common sexually transmitted pathogens, the time to result is 2.5 hours. On the other hand, the Vivalytic MG, MH, UP/UU panel, used to detect mycoplasmas and/or ureaplasmas, provides results in approximately one hour.
By conducting fully automated analyses at the point of care, Vivalytic saves valuable time for hospitals, labs, genitourinary clinics and doctor’s offices during their routine processes.
| STI Panel | MG, MH, UP, UU Panel |
|---|---|
| Chlamydia trachomatis | Mycoplasma genitalium |
| Neisseria gonorrhoeae | Mycoplasma hominis |
| Trichomonas vaginalis | Ureaplasma parvum/Ureaplasma |
| Mycoplasma genitalium | |
| Treponema pallidum | |
| Mycoplasma hominis | |
| Ureaplasma urealyticum | |
| Haemophilus ducreyi | |
| Herpes simplex virus I | |
| Herpes simplex virus II |
At a Glance
- The Vivalytic system allows fully automated sample analysis with minimal manual steps.
- It eliminates the need for expensive and complex laboratory equipment.
- Vivalytic supports both single and multiplex tests.
- The Vivalytic does not require peripheral equipment such as a laptop, keyboard, barcode scanner, or charging station.
- The cartridge used in the system ensures hygienic and safe operation as a closed system.
- Cartridges can be stored and used at room temperature.
- Vivasuite, a cloud-based solution, facilitates convenient device management.
- The Vivalytic can be seamlessly integrated into existing IT structures using HL7, Ethernet, USB, or WLAN.
