On Jan. 9, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a three-in-one test that detects HIV, hepatitis C and hepatitis B.
The test, manufactured by Roche, is the second version of the "cobas TaqScreen MPX Test." This updated version provides increased sensitivity and is the only test approved by the FDA to detect the three aforementioned viruses together.
The real-time, multi-dye PCR assay will be used to test "donations of human whole blood and blood components including source plasma," according to Roche's press release.
"The combination of viral target detection and identification steps on a fully automated system offers workflow advantages to blood and plasma testing centers by eliminating the need for consecutive rounds of testing, and facilitating earlier donor counseling in the event of a positive result," the manufacturer stated.