Mylab Discovery Solutions has introduced a novel, strip-based test named PathoCatch Sickle Cell Rapid Test for diagnosing Sickle Cell Anemia swiftly and accurately. The test, approved by the CDSCO, aims to revolutionize the approach of healthcare professionals towards diagnosing and managing this disease, providing on-the-spot results to patients. This innovation aligns with the Indian government’s goal to eradicate Sickle Cell Anemia by the year 2047.
In the past, the diagnosis of sickle cell anemia has been a cumbersome and protracted procedure involving collection and transportation of blood samples to a lab and subsequent examination by trained lab personnel. This extensive process often caused delays in diagnosis and treatment, escalating morbidity and mortality rates.
However, with the aid of advanced technology, the PathoCatch Sickle Cell Rapid Test enables detection of abnormal hemoglobin in a tiny blood sample within minutes. Healthcare professionals can effortlessly employ this test without the need for laboratory apparatus. It consists of three indicators which identify hemoglobin A, S, and C, swiftly differentiating between normal, carrier, and sickle cell samples. With a combined sensitivity and specificity of 100%, it’s one of the fastest and most precise tests in India.
Commenting on the launch, Hasmukh Rawal, the Managing Director
and Co-founder of Mylab, stated, “The societal health consequences of sickle-cell anemia are severe. Individuals with the condition are at risk of life-threatening medical issues. Early diagnostic testing and comprehensive treatment can markedly lower morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. We’re optimistic that PathoCatch Sickle Cell Rapid Test will mitigate the impact of sickle cell anemia in India and aid the government’s goal to eradicate the diseases by 2047.”Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disease passed from parents to children. Individuals with the disease inherit two malfunctioning genes – hemoglobin S, one from each parent, while those with the sickle cell trait inherit only one faulty gene. This disease is common amongst the tribal population in India, with approximately one in every 86 tribal births affected.
The PathoCatch Sickle Cell Rapid Test is suitable for use in blood banks, gynecological hospitals, primary and secondary health centers, and government screening programs. It is particularly beneficial for regions with limited resources and a high incidence of SCA, providing prompt diagnosis and supporting SCA screening programs. The test kit is expected to be available in hospitals and labs by the end of this month.
Sickle cell anemia (SCA), with around 1.8 crore people having the sickle cell trait and 14 lakhs suffering from the disease, is estimated to be the second most burdening disease in India. It results in the distortion of red blood cells into a sickle shape due to the presence of the abnormal hemoglobin S variant. The inflexible sickle-shaped blood cells can obstruct blood flow, causing pain, organ damage, and potential morbidity and mortality. Therefore, early detection and timely intervention are crucial in managing the complications linked to the disease.
