WHO Recommends Use of LED Fluorescence Microscopy Technology for the Detection of Tuberculosis

Port Matilda, Pennsylvania, September 8, 2010 – In a recent policy statement, the World Health Organization recommended the implementation of LED fluorescence microscopy technology for the detection of Acid Fast Bacilli (AFB), a bacteria that causes tuberculosis.

LED fluorescence technology is at the heart of QBC Diagnostics Complete TB Solution, including the ParaLens Microscope Attachment, F.A.S.T. (Fluorescence And Staining Technologies) AFB Kits, and ParaWorld training resources. LED fluorescence detects TB by focusing a powerful blue (~460 nm) LED light beam onto a sputum sample treated with Auramine O stain, causing AFB in the sample to fluoresce bright green against a dark black background.
The WHO recommended that LED fluorescence microscopy replace light microscopy using Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) stain in the detection of TB bacilli. The WHO noted that LED fluorescence microscopy offers, “equivalent accuracy…to international reference standards, improved sensitivity over conventional ZN microscopy, and qualitative, operational and cost advantages.”

QBCs System includes:

• ParaLens Microscope Attachment: An attachment that easily and affordably provides LED fluorescence capabilities to any light microscope.

• F.A.S.T. AFB Kits: Complete AFB staining systems that offer improvements such as a 3-minute Auramine stain and the patent-pending SureFocus microscope slide, designed to simplify sample review and keep samples in focus.

• ParaWorld: Training seminars and other resources designed to help users utilize LED fluorescence technology.

Craig Stout, Vice President and General Manager of QBC Diagnostics, said, “At QBC Diagnostics, our LED fluorescence microscopy products are designed to provide users with improvements in accuracy and time savings in AFB detection. This policy statement by the WHO reflects what we have long supported: LED fluorescence technology is the key to providing improved AFB detection and ease of use at an affordable price.”

To read the WHO policy statement, please click here. For more information on the ParaLens, F.A.S.T. AFB Kits, and ParaWorld, please see each products individual pages.

About QBC Diagnostics
QBC Diagnostics is a privately held company headquartered in Port Matilda, Pennsylvania. The company manufactures a line of complete blood count analyzers and fluorescence microscopy products. Additional information can be found by visiting the company website www.qbcdiagnostics.com or by calling 814-692-7661.