CandiSelect 4, the Only Chromogenic Medium in the U.S. to Presumptively Identify Candida glabrata
HERCULES, CA – January 7, 2008 – Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (AMEX: BIO and BIOb), a multinational manufacturer and distributor of life science research and clinical diagnostic products, today announced the introduction to the U.S. market of CandiSelect™ 4, a chromogenic medium used for the selective isolation of several forms of Candida, a genus of yeasts that can cause numerous infections in humans and animals. CandiSelect 4 is designed for the direct identification of Candida albicans, the most significant member of the Candida genus, as well as the presumptive identification of Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, and Candida krusei.
Candida species colonize on the skin, mouth, vagina, and stool flora but can invade other body regions and tissues that would normally be resistant to invasion especially in immuno-compromised patients. The clinical spectrum of Candidiasis (a Candida infection) is extremely diverse. Almost any organ or system in the body can be affected. The incidence of invasive fungal infections has increased steadily over the past two decades, according to a report published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology in 2007. Candida species are a common cause of nosocomial infections (infections acquired as the result of treatment in a hospital or healthcare setting but secondary to the patient’s original condition) with significant associated morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare costs. Rapid and accurate diagnosis of these infections is essential so physicians are able to administer an appropriate therapy to their patients as quickly as possible.
“We are pleased to introduce an effective chromogenic medium that offers rapid and accurate identification of the most prevalent Candida species,” said John Goetz,
While Candida albicans is the most common Candida species implicated in these infections, non-albicans species such as Candida glabrata are increasing in frequency. The increase in Candida glabrata systemic infections is a subject of considerable concern due to the high mortality rate associated with this species. Another concern is that Candida glabrata is becoming more resistant to fluconazole, a drug used to treat these infections. CandiSelect 4 is currently the only chromogenic media in the U.S. to presumptively identify Candida glabrata.
About Bio-Rad
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (AMEX: BIO and BIOb) has remained at the center of scientific discovery for more than 50 years manufacturing and distributing a broad range of products for the life science research and clinical diagnostic markets. The company is renowned worldwide among hospitals, universities, major research institutions, as well as biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies for its commitment to quality and customer service. Founded in 1952, Bio-Rad is headquartered in Hercules, California, and serves more than 85,000 research and industry customers worldwide through its global network of operations. The company employs approximately 6,300 people globally and had revenues of nearly $1.3 billion in 2006. For more information, visit www. bio-rad.com.
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For more information contact:
Tina Cuccia, Corporate Communications Manager
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
510-724-7000
Email: tina_cuccia@bio-rad.com