CINCINNATI—Researchers say they have developed a lateral flow assay device that patients can use at home to monitor their blood coagulation.
The device consists of nanofiber membranes inside a paper-based, porous test strip that is housed in a plastic cassette.
The researchers said this device can quickly reveal the level of the blood’s ability to clot using just a drop of blood from a finger prick.
“We have developed a blood-screening device for patients on medications like Coumadin (warfarin) or other blood thinners who need to monitor their blood-clotting levels on a regular basis,” said Andrew Steckl, PhD, of the University of Cincinnati in Ohio.
“Patients can soon monitor their blood coagulation characteristics from home quickly and painlessly before making needless trips to the lab or hospital.”
Hua Li, a student researcher in Dr Steckl’s lab, presented details on this device at the 8th International Conference on Porous Media and Annual Meeting of the International Society for Porous Media (abstract 1371).
Dr Steckl noted that slight changes in the level of coagulation properties will occur normally, but a major change in levels immediately shows up with his team’s device.
The researchers found the device was able to detect coagulation ability in rabbit blood and in blood from patients receiving warfarin.
“This simple test is not intended to replace the very careful and accurate measurements that get accomplished in a laboratory facility, but, at a relatively minimal cost, a patient can do this on their own between scheduled visits or when in doubt,” Dr Steckl said. “And it shouldn’t require a caregiver, as most patients can perform this test quickly on their own.”
Furthermore, the researchers said this technology can be calibrated to a specific patient’s condition. For example, a patient whose normal blood coagulation rate is significantly different from the general population because of a genetic disorder can use a tailor-made test kit that includes a different porous membrane.
The technology may also help patients who have a known inherited blood clotting disorder detect concerning levels early.
“By identifying potential blood-clotting problems early enough, we hope to prevent potential injury or death and the exorbitant associated costs,” Dr Steckl said. “By shifting from what were once mandatory expensive laboratory tests to using more in-home screening tests, patients can take more control of their lives, reduce healthcare costs, and, ultimately, save more lives.”
