Journal article

Health service impact of testing for respiratory pathogens using cartridge-based multiplex array versus molecular batch testing

Victoria M Madigan, Vincent G Sinickas, Dawn Giltrap, Peter Kyriakou, Katherine Ryan, Hiu-Tat Chan, Vanessa Clifford

PATHOLOGY | ELSEVIER | Published : 2018

Abstract

There is increasing demand for access to rapid microbiological testing, with a view to improving clinical outcomes. The possibility of rapid testing has been facilitated by development of cartridge-based random access molecular technologies that are now widely available. Whether the expense of cartridge-based assays is justified in terms of clinical or laboratory cost savings is controversial. This prospective study evaluated the impact of the Biofire FilmArray Respiratory Panel ('FilmArray'), a cartridge-based random access molecular test, compared with standard batched molecular testing using an 'in-house' respiratory polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on laboratory and health service outcome..

View full abstract

Grants

Funding Acknowledgements

This study was supported by a Victor Hurley Research grant in aid through the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia. The authors state that there are no conflicts of interest to disclose.