Analyzer Processes Test for Stool Blood

A new analyzer processes an immunochemical test to detect the presence of blood in stool samples, a test recommended for use in routine physical exams when monitoring for bleeding in patients or screening for colorectal cancer or gastrointestinal bleeding.

Traditionally, tests for blood in stool have been performed manually with guaiac-based tests. Unfortunately, the compliance rate of patients collecting samples for screening has been poor. This shortfall in compliance has been due mainly to dietary restrictions that are necessary with guaiac-based tests as well as for esthetic reasons associated with stool-specimen collection. The new analyzer, OC Auto Micro 80, eliminates both of these concerns because results are not affected by diet, and a new collection device reduces the three sample collections down to one. The OC Auto Micro 80 is the product of Polymedco (Cortlandt Manor, NY, USA).

Currently, the survival rate of colorectal cancer is 62%, but increased screening will likely identify patients in earlier stages of the disease, thus improving the survival rate and reducing the long-term medical costs associated with late-stage colorectal cancer, noted Polymedco. Because a fecal occult blood test leads to more invasive procedures, improved sensitivity and specificity such as that offered by the company's automated test may reduce the number of false-positives, thereby lowering overall costs and reducing unnecessary invasive procedures.




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