Alere biomarker test shows efficacy in kidney diagnostics

Alere's Triage Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin (NGAL) test has demonstrated its effectiveness in kidney diagnostics in a recent study.

The science company's point-of-care blood biomarker test was utilised in an Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam study designed to establish the effectiveness of NGAL testing in identifying patients at risk of severe acute kidney injury (AKI).

It was found that Alere's device, when combined with other standard tests, can assist in the diagnostic process and ensure these patients can be identified as early as possible.

Dr Hilde De Geus of the Erasmus University Medical Center said: "This study shows that NGAL has a significant additional value combined with standard tests and sets the stage for further research for prediction of severe AKI."

The Alere test is CE mark-accredited and is currently available in Europe, while the manufacturer also plans to release the device worldwide.

Alere was formerly known as Inverness Medical Solutions, but chose to rebrand the company in July 2010.