Dade Behring introduces in Europe assay for chronic alcohol abuse:
This article was originally published in Clinica
Executive Summary
Dade Behring has launched in Europe what is claimed to be the first fully-automated and direct immunoassay test for the early detection of chronic alcohol abuse. The N Latex CDT assay is designed for use on the company's BNII and BN ProSpec systems. Studies indicate that patients suffering from chronic alcohol abuse are characterised by elevated levels of carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT), a serum protein found in the blood. The marker can also be used to differentiate the diagnosis of alcohol and non-alcohol induced liver disease, the Deerfield, Illinois firm said. The assay is not yet available in the US. Research estimates that around 20% of patients seen in clinical practice present underlying alcohol misuse.