The FDA just gave approval to the first quick test for drug resistant staph infections, known as MRSA. The product is made by Becton, Dickinson and Co. of Franklin Lake, NJ.
The BD GeneOhm StaphSR Assay uses molecular methods to identify whether a blood sample contains genetic material from the MRSA bacterium or the more common, less dangerous staph bacterium that can still be treated with methicillin.
“The BD GeneOhm test is good news for the public health community. Rather than waiting more than two days for test results, health care personnel will be able to identify the source of a staph infection in only two hours, allowing for more effective diagnosis and treatment,” said Daniel G. Schultz, M.D., director, FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health.
Here’s the product brochure:
FDA press release: FDA Clears First Quick Test For Drug-Resistant Staph Infections
Product page: BD GeneOhm™ MRSA Assay