New Diagnostic Method for Bowel Disease

An outcomes study has found that a new noninvasive way to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a fast, accurate complement to traditional invasive diagnostic strategies that can lower the number and costs of invasive tests. Another finding indicates that most patients with suspected IBD who undergo invasive testing are ultimately found to suffer from a functional gastrointestinal disorder.

The new method, called the Prometheus Decision Model, combines serologic testing with traditional diagnostic methods. It uses a panel of serologic markers (ANCA, ASCA IgA, ASCA IgG and OmpC) that have been associated with IBD. The panel includes technology patented by Prometheus Laboratories Inc. (San Diego, CA, USA). Results of these tests quickly identify patients who should go on to have invasive diagnostic testing to confirm the diagnosis of IBD. This can shorten the time to an accurate diagnosis and reduce the number and costs of invasive tests.

The Prometheus Decision Model utilizes specialized computer software to help demonstrate and track patient outcomes and cost savings when incorporating Prometheus serologic testing into the physician's diagnostic protocol to differentiate abdominal symptoms. The outcomes study was conducted from the perspective of the third-party payer, and outcomes were measured based on cost-per-correct diagnosis in competing strategies.




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Prometheus Laboratories