Rapid On-Site Anthrax Test

A new on-site test for the detection of anthrax in humans produces rapid test results with sufficient sensitivity to detect a potentially infectious dose.

Using actual biowarfare samples, researchers confirmed that the test achieved a reliable detection level of 4,000 spores, with 99% confidence in specificity, and substantially below the 10,000 spore level used by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to define an infectious dose. The test is the product of Response Biomedical Corp. (Vancouver, Canada) and has been cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The system consists of a portable fluorescence reader and disposable test cartridges. The company's Ramp platform technology delivers results in less than fifteen minutes. Tests for other biologic agents, such as botulism, plague, and smallpox are also being developed by Response Biomedical.

"These independent results unequivocally show Ramp has achieved an unprecedented level of sensitivity and reliability that will vastly improve the ability to protect public health and safety against the threat of future anthrax attacks, and quickly recognize a hoax to minimize disruption,” said Bill Radvak, president and CEO of Response Biomedical.




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