The new test, which enhances the firm’s blood screening portfolio in serology testing, has been designed to meet the needs of blood centres and clinical laboratories for effective detection of HTLV-I/II infection.
Roche Diagnostics division COO Roland Diggelmann said: "Globally there are around 20 million people infected with HTLV-I/II, many of whom are unknown carriers. If the virus is undetected in donors, the risk of spreading the infection increases.
"Roche is uniquely positioned to help blood centers improve their testing efficiency, based on our broad assay portfolio and integrated molecular and serology laboratory solutions."
With its improved sensitivity, the test reduces the likelihood of missing early or chronic HTLV infections, minimizing the risk of transmission.
The test’s high specificity helps in clear and consistent interpretation of results at all disease stages with a minimal need for re-testing.
Its effective test procedure enables healthcare professionals to run a single test within 18 minutes, allowing the safe and timely supply of blood products
