Evaluation of digital microfluidic molecular point-of-care testing for the diagnosis of respiratory pathogens
This study is looking at new ways to quickly diagnose breathing infections in the A&E department at Addenbrooke's Hospital. When someone comes to A&E with a breathing problem, getting a quick diagnosis is really important. It can help them get treated faster and also help stop the infection from spreading to others. We're comparing a new testing device, called the Logicore System, with the current standard device, called Cepheid. We want to see if the new device can provide answers more quickly and accurately. Taking part simply means having one extra quick swab similar to a COVID test. This study hopes to improve how we diagnose and manage breathing infections in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is happening in the A&E department at Addenbrooke's Hospital. It's focused on improving how quickly we can find out what germ is causing a breathing infection when someone comes in feeling unwell. Getting this information fast is really important because it means doctors can start the right treatment sooner, which is better for the patient. It also helps the hospital staff know if someone needs to be kept separate to stop the infection spreading to others.
We're testing a new device called the Logicore System. We want to compare it to the device hospitals currently use, called Cepheid. The main things we're looking at are: how fast each device gives a diagnosis, and how accurate it is at finding the infection. By doing this, we hope to find a better, quicker way to diagnose these infections in the future.
There's no new treatment involved in this study. It's all about making diagnostic testing better. If the new device works well, it could mean faster answers for patients with breathing problems in A&E, potentially leading to better care and a reduced risk of infections spreading in the hospital.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to find faster and more accurate ways to diagnose breathing infections.
- It compares a new testing device with the current standard one.
- Participation involves one extra nasal swab, taken at the same time as your usual swab.
- Your medical care and treatment will not change if you participate.
- There's no direct personal benefit, but you'll help improve future patient care.
- The study takes place in the A&E at Addenbrooke's Hospital.
Who may be eligible?
You could be eligible for this study if you come to the A&E department at Addenbrooke's Hospital and have symptoms of a breathing infection, such as a cough, sore throat, or feeling breathless. You must also need a standard diagnostic test for your infection as part of your usual care.
The study is open to both men and women of all ages. You will need to be able to understand the information about the study and sign a consent form to take part.
However, you won't be able to join if you are unable or unwilling to have the nasal swab, or if you can't give your agreement to participate. Patients who are in prison are also unable to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older? (The trial says 'any age', but typically studies for adults use 18+ for consent, check with the team if you are under 18).
- Are you currently in the A&E department at Addenbrooke's Hospital?
- Do you have symptoms of a breathing infection (like cough, sore throat, or fever)?
- Do you need a standard diagnostic test for your infection as part of your A&E care?
- Are you willing and able to have an extra nasal swab taken?
- Can you read and understand the study information in English?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, it's quite simple. As part of your usual care in A&E, you'll already be having a swab taken from your nostril (like a COVID test) to check for infections using the standard Cepheid device. If you join the study, you'll have one additional, similar swab taken at the same time, but from your other nostril. This extra swab will be tested using the new Logicore System device.
So, you'll have two swabs taken instead of one. After that, you'll continue with your usual care in the A&E department; the study doesn't involve any changes to your treatment. Each participant acts as their own comparison, meaning we can directly see how the two devices perform using samples from the same person. The study team is based at Logilet (UK) Ltd, and it's expected to run from August 2025 to April 2026, with recruitment happening between December 2025 and March 2026.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Emergency Department of Addenbrooke's HospitalCity onlyCambridge, England
Common questions
What is a 'respiratory infection'?
A respiratory infection is an illness that affects your breathing passages, like your nose, throat, or lungs. Examples include the common cold, flu, bronchitis, or pneumonia.
What is a 'nasopharyngeal swab'?
This is a medical test where a small, soft stick is gently inserted into your nostril to collect a sample. It's similar to the swab used for COVID-19 tests.
Will taking part change my treatment?
No, taking part in this study will not change the medical care or treatment you receive in the A&E department.
Do I have to pay to join the study?
No, there are no costs to you for joining the study, and you also won't be paid for your participation.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is being funded by Logilet (UK) Ltd, a company based in the UK.
How to find out more
Juliet Connor
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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