BioMerieux launches heart failure diagnosis and prognosis aid

BioMerieux yesterday announced the launch of VIDAS NT-proBNP, a test that aids the diagnosis and prognosis of heart failure, following the completion of a licensing deal struck with Roche Diagnostics.

The test is a quantitative marker of heart stress that provides diagnostic information that allows the distinction of heart failure from a range of other conditions with similar symptoms such as pulmonary embolism or lung disorders, asserts the company.

Stephane Bancel, chief executive of bioMerieux, commented: "The unique VIDAS design makes this assay available 24-hours-a-day for emergency departments.

"Year to date, bioMerieux has now launched its 3rd VIDAS test that brings high medical value to clinicians," he added.

VIDAS NT-proBNP has the potential to identify the early stages of heart failure in the absence of clinically-obvious symptoms, according to bioMerieux.

Last month, the firm announced the presentation of a new handbook on sepsis at an international forum on the syndrome.