Hologic receives CE Mark approval for new herpes diagnostic test

Hologic has announced that its new Aptima assay for the diagnosis of types 1 and 2 of the herpes simplex virus (HSV) has received European CE Mark approval.

The Aptima HSV 1 and 2 assay is a nucleic acid amplification test for the qualitative detection of HSV RNA in clinician-collected swab specimens from skin lesions, which can be used to provide symptomatic male and female patients with clear diagnoses.

It distinguishes between HSV 1 and 2, which is recommended in all patients with first-episode genital herpes, as those with the type 2 variant are at increased risk for contracting and transmitting HIV.

The assay runs on Hologic's Panther system, which fully automates all aspects of molecular testing to substantially reduce hands-on time for laboratories by providing random and continuous access with rapid turnaround time.

Joao Malagueira, vice-president for international diagnostic sales at Hologic, said: "Labs increasingly are looking to consolidate testing onto a single platform, and by expanding the number of tests available on Panther, we are helping these customers become more efficient."

Other CE Mark-approved assays available on the Panther system include a virology menu and tests for sexually-transmitted infections such as chlamydia/gonorrhoea, trichomonas and M. genitalium.

With over 20 years of experience within the science market, we at Zenopa have the knowledge, skills and expertise to help find the right job for you. To find out more about the current science roles we have available, you can search for the latest job roles, register your details, or contact the team today.