SensNews Nov 2017

Sensor100 November 2017 20 BreathDX launched break- through ammonia detection de- vice at MEDICA 2017 BreathDX launched its two new breath ammonia measurement devices at this year’s MEDICA conference. The AmBeR® and AmBeR® Clinical devices measure highly accurate ammonia levels in just eight breaths and are the most viable, cost-effective alternative to blood-based tests. Ammonia is an important chemical in the breath that is linked with a range of known and likely conditions from stomach ulcers (eg H. pylori) to metabolic issues and hepatic encephalopathy. In the medical industry, breath ammonia monitoring is rare due to the cost and complexity associated with the detection instruments. AmBeR® and AmBeR Clinical® make it easy to test more frequently and can be used in all clinical envi- ronments, or in the home for patients who are required to constantly monitor their blood ammonia levels. Clin- ical evaluations have now commenced in a number of UK hospitals to demonstrate that ammonia measurements have the same level of accuracy as standard blood-based tests. The point of care AmBeR® devices use a custom designed impedance circuit and airflow module. The devices incorporate inexpensive disposable printed sensors based on nanotechnology to provide the fast, accurate and quality analysis. The specific patented technology in the devices was developed by Professor Tony Killard during his time at the Biomedical Diagnostics Institute at Dublin City University. Reported by: Medica November 11