This rapid technique allows for the simultaneous detection of multiple biomarkers in raw samples such as whole blood and whole saliva. The sample is placed in the device, it performs analysis and presents the best course of action based on the infection and any possible resistance that has been identified. The device has the potential to test for ten different types of infection and the corresponding possible resistances to the most common antibiotics used to treat them.

There are many small devices being developed that have the potential to simultaneously perform multiple assays from a single sample. These tests could provide a streamlined alternative to ELISA testing, and could provide improved sensitivity and comparable specificity. These devices are labour saving, they also have the potential to be automated to a level at which a non-trained health carer could use them.

Advantages:

• it's easy - a non-expert can take and analyse a sample
• it's compact - it's small enough and light enough to take to remote places
• it's fast - it can perform whole sample analysis very quickly