A new MSPQC system for rapid detection of pathogens in clinical samples

A new multi-channel series piezoelectric quartz crystal (MSPQC) system for detection of pathogens in clinical sample was proposed. Some factors, which affect the detection of pathogens by using MSPQC, were all investigated. A total of 650 clinical samples were detected by MSPQC and compared with licensed BACTEC 9120 system (Becton Dickinson Diagnostic Instrument Systems, Sparks, MD, USA) simultaneously in the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, China. When the incubation period was 5 days, two systems had similar detected results: the MSPQC system detected 123 growth of 650 (18.92%) bottles while the BACTEC 9120 detected 125 growth of 650 (19.23%) bottles. The MSPQC had 2 false-positive signals and 2 false-negative signals. However, BACTEC 9120 had 3 false-positive signals and 0 false-negative signals. Further identifications of bacteria were run by VITEK-2 (bioMérieux China Ltd.), 5% sheep blood trypticase soy agar (SBA) and chocolate agar (CA). Comparing with BACTEC 9120, MSPQC system possesses following advantages: shorter average detection time, less blood volume needed, less false-positive results and low cost. It can also provide information in real time. So MSPQC has a wonderful perspective in clinical application.