【INTENDED USE】
The HCV Rapid Test (Whole blood/Serum/Plasma) is a rapid visual immunoassay for the qualitative, presumptive detection of antibodies to HCV in human serum or plasma specimens. This kit is intended for use as an aid in the diagnosis of HCV infection.
【INTRODUCTION】
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a small, enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus. HCV is now known to be the major cause of parenterally transmitted non-A, non-B hepatitis. Antibodies to HCV are found in over 80% of patients with well-documented non-A, non-B hepatitis. Conventional methods fail to isolate the virus in cell culture or visualize it by electron microscope. Cloning the viral genome has made it possible to develop serologic assays that use recombinant antigens. Compared to first generation HCV EIAs using single recombinant antigens, new serologic tests include multiple antigens using recombinant protein and/or synthetic peptides to avoid nonspecific cross-reactivity and to increase sensitivity.
【PRINCIPLE】
The HCV Rapid Test detects antibodies to HCV through visual interpretation of color development in the internal strip. Protein A is immobilized on the test region of the membrane. During testing, the specimen reacts with recombinant HCV antigen conjugated to colored particles and precoated onto the sample pad of the test. The mixture then migrates through the membrane by capillary action and interacts with reagents on the membrane. If there are sufficient HCV antibodies in the specimen, a colored band will form at the test region of the membrane. The presence of this colored band indicates a positive result, while its absence indicates a negative result. The appearance of a colored band at the control region serves as a procedural control, indicating that the proper volume of specimen has been added and membrane wicking has occurred.
【MAIN CONTENTS】
• Rapid test cassette with desiccant.
• Buffer
• Disposable pipettes
• Package insert
【PRECAUTIONS】
• For professional in vitro diagnostic use only.
• Do not use after the expiration date indicated on the package. Do not use the test if the foil pouch is damaged. Do not reuse tests.
• This kit contains products of animal origin. Certified knowledge of the origin and/or sanitary state of the animals does not completely guarantee the absence of transmissible pathogenic agents. It is therefore recommended that these products be treated as potentially infectious, and handled by observing usual safety precautions (e.g., do not ingest or inhale).
• Avoid cross-contamination of specimens by using a new specimen collection container for each specimen obtained.
• Read the entire procedure carefully prior to testing.
• Do not eat, drink or smoke in the area where the specimens and kits are handled. Handle all specimens as if they contain infectious agents. Observe established precautions against microbiological hazards throughout the procedure and follow standard procedures for the proper disposal of specimens. Wear protective clothing such as laboratory coats, disposable gloves and eye protection when specimens are assayed.
• Humidity and temperature can adversely affect results.
• Used testing materials should be discarded according to local regulations.
【STORAGE AND STABILITY】
• Store at 2 ~ 30 º C in the sealed pouch for 24 months.
• Keep away from direct sunlight, moisture and heat.
• DO NOT FREEZE.
【SAMPLE COLLECTION】
• The HCV Rapid Test is intended for use with human whole blood, serum or plasma specimens only.
• Only clear, non-hemolyzed specimens are recommended for use with this test. Serum or plasma should be separated as soon as possible to avoid hemolysis.
• Perform testing immediately after specimen collection. Do not leave specimens at room temperature for prolonged periods. Serum and plasma specimens may be stored at 2-8°C for up to 3 days. For long term storage, specimens should be kept below -20°C.
• Bring specimens to room temperature prior to testing. Frozen specimens must be completely thawed and mixed well prior to testing. Avoid repeated freezing and thawing of specimens.
• If specimens are to be shipped, pack them in compliance with all applicable regulations for transportation of etiological agents.
• Icteric, lipemic, hemolysed, heat treated and contaminated sera may cause erroneous results.
【DIRECTION OF USE】
Bring tests, specimens, and/or controls to room temperature (15-30°C) before use.
1. Remove the test from its sealed pouch, and place it on a clean, level surface. Label the device with patient or control identification. For
best results, the assay should be performed within one hour.
2. Test
For Serum or Plasma
Use the provided disposable pipette, transfer 2 drops of serum/Plasma to the specimen well (S) of the cassette with the provided disposable pipette, then start the timer.
For Whole Blood
Transfer 1 drop of whole blood specimen to the specimen well (S) of the device with the provided disposable pipette, then add 1 drop of buffer and start the timer.
Avoid trapping air bubbles in the specimen well (S), and do not add any solution to the result area.
As the test begins to work, color will migrate across the membrane.
3. Wait for the colored band(s) to appear. The result should be read at 15 minutes. Do not interpret the result after 20 minutes.
【INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS】
POSITIVE: The presence of two lines as control line (C) and test line (T) within the result window indicates a positive result.
NEGATIVE: The presence of only control line (C) within the result window indicates a negative result.
INVALID: If the control line (C) is not visible within the result window after performing the test, the result is considered invalid. Some causes of invalid results are because of not following the directions correctly or the test may have deteriorated beyond the expiration date. It is recommended that the specimen be re-tested using a new test.