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The device meets WHO guidelines for a rapid TB screening test. The Breathalyser and portable reader have been independently tested in field trials in Ethiopia and India.
About
The Breathalyser device contains a patented bio-optical sensor component which emits fluorescent light that can only be generated when TB bacteria are present in a cough sample. The Breathalyser is inserted into a portable optical Reader containing a low cost standard laser diode and optics that can interrogate the cough sample during a 2 minute scan. The design is aimed for use by non-medics in rural communities as well as in clinics, schools and other locations where TB infection spreads quickly with only minimal training required to administer the test. The optical design is based on standard componentry which enables significant cost reduction in volume production. Rapid Biosensor Systems has patented the complete system and the TB biochemistry used in the biosensor. All the biochemistry is dry and no additional mixing of fluids is necessary. The company owns all the IP and patents are granted in many countries. This platform technology could be adapted to detect lung cancer biomarkers and COVID-19 viral infection.
Key Benefits
Very fast, low cost ($5) disposable test for TB used at the Point-of-Care in rural communities and clinics. Battery operated optical Reader gives a result in 2 minutes. Simple to use and does not require a medical professional to administer it. Proven accuracy sens/spec >95% when tested on 1,000 people in India and Ethiopia across four sites. Non-invasive breath test.
Applications
TB Diagnostics at POC. Platform for technology roadmap resulting in new tests for; Pneumonia Lung Cancer COVID-19