Lactate testing with hematocrit compensation ideal for sports medical health checks

Following the recent launch of its new Lactate Scout+ analyzer incorporating hematocrit compensation, EKF Diagnostics, the global diagnostics business, is seeing an increasing interest from a broad range of users in both sports and medical science. Consequently, EKF has launched a specific product resource website (www.lactatescout.com) housing numerous guides and scientific papers on lactate testing.

Uptake of the new handheld Lactate Scout+ device is particularly notable within the sports science market. Testing of lactate is an established parameter for athletic performance diagnostics which confirm optimal individual training regimes and avoid critical over-exhaustion. Uniquely, the new Lactate Scout+ analyzer takes the hematocrit (Hct) variations of professional athletes into account to ensure extremely accurate lactate results, even at high or low Hct levels.

Other innovative built-in features of the Lactate Scout+ make it an ideal and highly advanced tool for athletic performance assessment. These include an integrated ‘Step Test’ function and Bluetooth™ connectivity, as well as a stop-watch and countdown timer. In addition, Lactate Scout+ Data Link software is available to download free of charge. Data Link makes the transfer of data, from the device to a PC via the integrated Bluetooth interface, a simple task.

Lactate Scout+ is smaller than a cell phone and easy-to-use ‘in the field’ as a training companion for individuals or sports teams. "Lactate Scout delivers quick and accurate lactate measurements during training. This means, I can react immediately, controlling and improving the individual training of sportsmen. Because it is compact, we can take the device with us to all training camps and competitions," said Jirka Letzin, A-License Swimming Coach, based in Leipzig (Germany).

Based on many years of sports medical science, lactate testing has also recently been adopted for use in cardio-fitness and weight-reduction programs. For example, German health insurance providers have started to reimburse sports medical performance and health checks, including lactate tests, before starting to exercise. This is especially recommended for individuals with obesity, Type-2 Diabetes or other chronic diseases.

“These checks can not only clarify if a chronically ill patient is able to perform therapeutic exercise, but at the same time determine the appropriate exercise intensities to enable optimal training,” states the German Society of sports medicine and prevention.¹

The benefits of rapid and easy lactate testing with hematocrit compensation in both sports and medical science are generating a great deal of interest in Lactate Scout+. “Since its launch in January 2014, the new version of our Lactate Scout+ has generated a significant increase in enquiries from end-users - up 380% compared to the same period in 2013. I believe that this reflects increased awareness of the different applications for lactate, some of which we detail in our new lactate resource website www.lactatescout.com,” commented Katja Lemburg, Product Manager, EKF Diagnostics.

About Lactate Scout+

• Results within 10 seconds
• 0.2 µL capillary blood sample
• Hematocrit compensation
• Integrated Bluetooth connectivity for data download
• Stores up to 250 results

About EKF Diagnostics

EKF Diagnostics Holdings plc specializes in the development, production and worldwide distribution of point-of-care blood analyzers for use in the detection and management of diabetes, anemia, lactate and kidney related diseases. Its new Molecular division focuses on molecular and companion diagnostics.

Point-of-care diagnostics: EKF Diagnostics’ expertise covers the entire in vitro diagnostics chain, from fermentation and enzyme production, to liquid reagent manufacture, design and building of world-class diagnostic devices, and distribution of rapid test kits for infectious diseases and pregnancy. The EKF analyzer range is used widely in GP surgeries, pharmacies, blood banks, sports clinics, hospitals and laboratories for glucose, lactate, hemoglobin, hematocrit and HbA1c measurement.

Companion Diagnostics: In March 2013 EKF set up a new division to focus on molecular and companion diagnostics - EKF Molecular Diagnostics develops technologies for cancer gene detection. Through its acquisition of UK-based 360 Genomics and by offering innovative products with the potential to change current DNA extraction and detection practices, EKF is addressing the fast growing companion diagnostics market.

EKF Diagnostics products are sold in more than 100 countries around the globe. EKF Diagnostics’ strengths lie in its multi-national research and manufacturing facilities, teams of experienced analysts and engineers in Germany, Ireland, USA and the UK, and a board led by some of world’s foremost authorities in medical diagnostics.

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