EKF Diagnostics launches new ESRD testing system

EKF Diagnostics has announced the launch of the sTNFr1 test, a new means of diagnosing diabetic patients at high risk of progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay is capable of accurately and reliably detecting circulating levels of soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor 1 (sTNFr1) – which is strongly linked with progression to ESRD – in patient samples.

It is therefore able to identify people who are at risk from this condition up to ten years in advance of currently available testing options, thus helping to provide better outcomes.

Other benefits of the new device include its ease of use and minimal need for associated training, as well as the fact it can deliver results in a matter of hours using only a small blood serum or plasma sample.

Julian Baines, chief executive officer of EKF Diagnostics, said: "Our new sTNFr1 test adds greatly to information provided by standard clinical criteria and provides accurate long-term prognostic information for ESRD."

The manufacturer specialises in the production of tools for the detection and management of diabetes, anaemia, lactate and kidney-related diseases.