Designed to run on cobas 6800/8800 systems, the three molecular PCR diagnostic test panels will facilitate the detection and differentiation of common respiratory pathogens
The administration and R&D buildings of Roche Diagnostics in Rotkreuz. (Credit: F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd)
Roche has introduced three new respiratory test panels in the CE markets for the identification of multiple pathogens with overlapping symptoms in patients.
Designed to run on cobas 6800/8800 systems, the three molecular PCR diagnostic test panels will facilitate the detection and differentiation of common respiratory pathogens.
The pathogens consist of influenza A, influenza B and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus (ADV), human metapneumovirus (hMPV) and enterovirus/rhinovirus (EV/RV), as well as parainfluenza 1, 2, 3 and 4.
According to Roche, the three tests hold the potential to run together or individually from a single nasopharyngeal swab specimen.
The tests are designed to provide a flexible testing option based on a syndromic-style panel to allow personalised healthcare and help minimise unnecessary testing, as respiratory viruses circulating within a community can vary depending on seasonality and geography.
Roche Diagnostics CEO Thomas Schinecker said: “Our latest set of syndromic respiratory solutions allows clinicians to choose the appropriate tests based on the healthcare setting, season and patient needs.
“By testing only what is medically relevant and necessary, we enable targeted therapy, avoid misuse of antibiotics and reduce unnecessary intervention.”
The three respiratory test panels run on the cobas omni Utility Channel, which is designed to be used with the high-volume cobas 6800/8800 systems.
The cobas omni Utility Channel on the cobas 6800/8800 systems allows a wider testing menu by consolidating open channel assays with Roche in vitro diagnostic (IVD) assays on a single platform, said the company.
Roche is also planning to expand the availability of three tests beyond CE markets in the future.
In June this year, Roche received CE mark approval for its SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Self Test Nasal for at-home testing.