BD launches new assays for gastrointestinal tract infections

BD and partner Diagenode have launched a series of new CE Mark-approved assays for use in the detection of gastrointestinal tract infections.

Diagenode has launched its Enteric Viral Panel primers and probes kit, to be used with the BD Max RNA extraction kit RNA3 and BD Max PCR Cartridges, while BD has introduced its own Enteric Bacterial Panel.

Using these new assays, clinicians will be able to diagnose a number of conditions from stool samples, including norovirus, rotavirus, salmonella and Shiga-toxin types 1a and 2a.

Infectious gastroenteritis accounts for one billion cases of diarrhoea globally and more than two million deaths annually, with enteric viruses being the most common cause.

Tom Polen, president of diagnostic systems at BD, said: "BD's suite of enteric assays on the BD Max System will allow for targeted testing needs based on patient and clinical presentation, optimising both clinical and economic outcomes."

Earlier this month, the company received US regulatory approval for a new BD Max assay for the detection of C. difficile infections.