| Abbreviation | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| BD Affirm | BD Affirm™ | The Affirm™ VPIII Microbial Identification Test is the first direct specimen DNA probe-based diagnostic test for the differential detection and identification of the causative agents for vaginitis: Candida species, Gardnerella vaginalis and Trichomonas vaginalis. The Affirm™ VPIII test's DNA probe technology offers a dependable, rapid means toward early identification and treatment of patients suffering from these pathogens. The test features an easy-to-read visible color reaction that is more accurate than current microscopic methods for detecting the causative agents of vaginitis. Additionally, its performance is unhampered by "difficult specimens," self-medication or the presence of mixed infections. During the test process, the assay aligns complementary nucleic acid strands to form specific, double-stranded complexes called hybrids. For each organism, this hybrid is composed of capture and color development single-stranded nucleic acid probes, complementary to the released target nucleic acid analyte. Enzyme conjugate then binds to the captured analyte. A positive result is a visible blue color reaction on the organism-specific bead embedded in the Affirm™ Probe Analysis Card (PAC). Each PAC contains three vaginitis organism test beads, plus positive and negative control beads to ensure test quality. |