Immunetics updates BacTx Analyzer for use with rapid test for platelet contamination

Immunetics, Inc., used the AABB Annual Meeting to introduce the updated BacTxAnalyzer for use with its BacTx rapid test for bacteria in whole-blood derived and apheresis platelets. Company representatives told conference attendees that the BacTx assay gives hospitals and blood banks a practical tool for assuring the safety of their platelets. The colorimetric assay can detect aerobic, anaerobic, gram-negative, and gram-positive bacteria in a single test. The test is designed to enable testing closer to time of transfusion, to reduce the risk of transfusing contaminated platelets.

The BacTx system utilizes a patented, highly specific, universal bacterial detection reagent that has been shown to detect wild and cultured bacterial strains. The assay meets AABB standard 5.1.5.1.1. It can be used for quality-control testing of leukocyte-reduced apheresis platelets within 24 hours of transfusion, following testing with an FDA-cleared growth-based bacterial detection device, as well as pools of up to six units of leukocyte-reduced whole-blood derived platelets that are pooled within four hours of transfusion.

Features of the updated BacTx Analyzer include barcode scanning; random access testing that allows multiple assays to be run at different times; LED touch screen; passcode and user ID entry; visual confirmation on both the analyzer and touch screen for quality control, tracking, and platelet management; automated tracking of tests, trends, and QC; USB port; and a small footprint. Learn more about the BacTx Rapid Assay System and the BacTX Analyzer.