(200 days)
The Simplexa C. auris Direct is a real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay intended for use on the LIAISON MDX instrument for the direct in vitro qualitative detection of Candida auris DNA from a composite swab of bilateral axilla/groin from patients suspected of C. auris colonization.
The test is intended to aid in the prevention and control of C. auris infection in healthcare settings by detecting C. auris from colonized patients.
Positive results indicate that the patient is colonized with C. auris. A positive result cannot rule out co-colonization with other pathogens. A negative result does not preclude C. auris colonization or infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or other patient management decisions. Results are meant to be used in conjunction with other clinical, epidemiologic, and laboratory information available to the clinician evaluating the patient. The test is not intended to diagnose or monitor treatment for C. auris infection. Concomitant cultures are necessary to recover organisms for epidemiological typing or for antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
The Simplexa C. auris RT-PCR system is intended for the amplification and qualitative detection of nucleic acid from Candida auris in composite bilateral axilla/groin swab specimens and consists of the following:
- The Simplexa C. auris Direct is the RT-PCR assay kit that contains all the reagents for the amplification reaction, including the primers and fluorescent probes for the detection of nucleic acid from Candida auris. The primers and fluorescent probes amplifies the C. auris DNA and Internal Control DNA. In addition, the kit comes with a barcode card, which contains assay specific parameters and lot information.
- The Simplexa C. auris Positive Control Pack is the separately packaged external positive quality control kit for use with the Simplexa C. auris Direct assay.
- The Simplexa C. auris Sample Prep Kit is the enzymatic buffer solution to receive the sample solution (bilateral axilla/groin swab in Amies transport media) from the patient.
The Simplexa C. auris RT-PCR system is for use with the LIAISON MDX instrument (with LIAISON MDX Studio Software), the RT-PCR thermocycler that amplifies the nucleic acid from biological specimens and uses real-time fluorescence detection to identify targets, and the Direct Amplification Disc (DAD), which is the accessory containing the input sample wells for use on the LIAISON MDX. The instrument and accessory were previously cleared under K102314 and K120413. The instrument is controlled by an external laptop running the software. The DAD consumable is compartmentalized into eight (8) separate wedges and can process up to eight (8) separate specimens or controls on each disc. Each wedge contains sample and reagent input wells, microfluidic channels and laser activated valves to control the fluid flow as well as a reaction/detection chamber.
The provided document describes the analytical and clinical performance of the Simplexa C. auris Direct RT-PCR system. However, it does not explicitly state pre-defined acceptance criteria in a table format that the device needed to meet. Instead, it presents the results of various studies (precision, analytical specificity, limit of detection, inclusivity, clinical performance) and then often concludes whether these results are "acceptable."
For example, for precision, it states: "For the multisite study, the test device showed ≥ 98.9% agreement of the qualitative result and ≤ 8.2% CV for each of the variance components, which is acceptable." This implies that ≥ 98.9% agreement and ≤ 8.2% CV were the internal acceptance criteria for precision.
Similarly, for the clinical performance, the reported Positive Percent Agreement (PPA) and Negative Percent Agreement (NPA) values are presented as the device's performance, but explicit pre-defined minimum thresholds for PPA and NPA as acceptance criteria are not given. They are implied by the fact that the De Novo request was granted.
Given this, I will infer the acceptance criteria from the reported "acceptable" results where possible and present the device performance based on the clinical study results.
Here's the information requested based on the provided text:
1. Table of Acceptance Criteria (Inferred) and Reported Device Performance
| Performance Characteristic | Inferred Acceptance Criteria (Based on "Acceptable" Results) | Reported Device Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Analytical Performance | ||
| Multisite Precision (% Agreement) | ≥ 98.9% (qualitative result) | 98.9% (Clade I South Asian (LP)) and 100.0% (other variants and controls) |
| Multisite Precision (% CV) | ≤ 8.2% (for each variance component) | ≤ 8.2% (observed max) |
| Lot-to-Lot Precision (% Agreement) | 100% (expected results) | 100% |
| Lot-to-Lot Precision (% CV) | ≤ 7.2% (for all panel members) | ≤ 7.2% (observed max combined) |
| Cross-reactivity & Microbial Interference | No observed cross-reactivity or interference | Not observed with any of the 34 organisms tested (wet testing) and none predicted by in silico analysis for 13 organisms |
| Interfering Substances | Expected detection rates, with documented interferences where applicable | Some interferences noted (anti-breathable deodorant cream @ 10% v/v, Benzalkonium chloride @ 0.07% v/v resulted in invalid results; detection restored at lower concentrations). Other 34 substances showed 100% detection. |
| Specimen Stability (5x LoD) | 100% positivity | 100% |
| Specimen Stability (2x LoD) | ≥ 95% positivity | 93-100% (Clade I 2xLoD fresh result was 93%, others were ≥97%) |
| Specimen Stability (0.5x LoD) | 10-90% positivity (expected variability) | 20-100% (varies by condition and clade) |
| Specimen Stability (Negative Samples) | 0% positivity | 0% |
| Limit of Detection (LoD) | ≥ 95% detection rate for the lowest concentration (confirmatory LoD) | Clade I: 127 CFU/mL (98% detection) Clade IV: 260 CFU/mL (98% detection) |
| Inclusivity (% Detection) | 100% detection of tested strains (wet testing) | 100% (all 9 strains from 6 clades) |
| Inclusivity (% Homology predicted) | ≥ 90% (oligo identity) with full coverage and predicted inclusivity | 98% (721/736 sequences) with two new Clade VI sequences showing 100% homology. |
| Carry-Over/Cross Contamination (% Detection of Negatives) | 0% | 0% (56/56 negative samples) |
| Clinical Performance | ||
| Positive Percent Agreement (PPA) - Prospective Cohort | Implied "acceptable" given clearance | 94.1% (32/34) (95% CI: 80.9% - 98.4%) |
| Negative Percent Agreement (NPA) - Prospective Cohort | Implied "acceptable" given clearance | 98.8% (1874/1896) (95% CI: 98.2% - 99.2%) |
| PPA - Combined Cohort (Prospective, Enriched, Retrospective) | Implied "acceptable" given clearance | 94.8% (55/58) (95% CI: 85.9% - 98.2%) |
| NPA - Combined Cohort (Prospective, Enriched, Retrospective) | Implied "acceptable" given clearance | 98.7% (1937/1962) (95% CI: 98.1% - 99.1%) |
2. Sample Size Used for the Test Set and Data Provenance
Test Set (Clinical Study):
- Total Evaluable Clinical Specimens (Combined Cohort): 2,020 specimens.
- Prospective Cohort: 1,930 evaluable specimens.
- Retrospective/Enriched Cohort: 90 evaluable specimens (11 retrospective pre-selected C. auris positive + 202 enriched specimens, of which 90 were evaluable).
- Data Provenance:
- Geographic Locations: Six study sites across four geographically diverse locations within the United States and one in Italy.
- Type of Data:
- Prospective: Prospectively collected specimens (axilla/groin swabs) from patients suspected of C. auris colonization. Tested either fresh or frozen. Collected from April to July 2023.
- Retrospective/Enriched: Leftover, de-identified composite bilateral axilla/groin swabs. Included 11 pre-selected C. auris positive retrospective specimens and 202 enriched specimens (identified as positive by a laboratory-verified RT-PCR test, then blinded and tested).
3. Number of Experts Used to Establish the Ground Truth for the Test Set and Qualifications of Those Experts
The document states that the ground truth for the clinical study was established by a reference method consisting of "standard of care (SOC) culture followed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for identification." These are laboratory methods, not human expert interpretation of images or other subjective data.
For discordant analysis, "Bi-directional sequencing (BDS) assays were performed when the candidate assay results differed from the comparator method." Again, this is a laboratory method.
The document does not specify human experts or their qualifications for establishing the ground truth for the test set.
4. Adjudication Method for the Test Set
The primary ground truth was established by the reference method (SOC culture + MALDI-TOF MS). For discordant results between the candidate assay and the reference method, Bi-directional Sequencing (BDS) was performed. However, "The results from discordant analysis were not used to alter the original performance but are provided in footnotes to the performance tables."
Therefore, there wasn't a human-based adjudication method in the traditional sense (e.g., 2+1 or 3+1 radiologists making a consensus decision). The reference method and supplemental BDS purely relied on objective laboratory techniques.
5. If a Multi-Reader Multi-Case (MRMC) Comparative Effectiveness Study was Done
No, this document describes a diagnostic device (RT-PCR assay) for detecting nucleic acids of Candida auris. It is not an AI-assisted diagnostic imaging device for which an MRMC study comparing human readers with and without AI assistance would be relevant. The study focuses solely on the direct performance of the molecular diagnostic test against a laboratory reference method.
6. If a Standalone (i.e. Algorithm only without human-in-the-loop performance) was Done
Yes, the entire clinical evaluation (Sections VI.C) and analytical performance studies (Sections VI.A) describe the standalone performance of the Simplexa C. auris Direct RT-PCR system. This device is an automated molecular diagnostic test and does not involve human interpretation in a loop, except for the user performing the test steps according to the instructions. The results (Ct values, positive/negative calls) are generated directly by the instrument platform (LIAISON MDX).
7. The Type of Ground Truth Used
The primary ground truth used for the clinical study was Standard of Care (SOC) culture followed by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for identification. For discordant results, Bi-directional Sequencing (BDS) was used as a supplemental ground truth, though these results did not alter the original performance metrics. This is a form of laboratory reference standard.
8. The Sample Size for the Training Set
The document does not explicitly mention a "training set" in the context of an AI/ML algorithm that would undergo a distinct training phase. This document describes a molecular diagnostic assay, not a machine learning model. The development of such assays involves establishing parameters (like fluorescence and Ct thresholds) using initial data, which could be considered an internal "calibration" or "development" process rather than a "training set" in the AI sense.
It states: "The fluorescence and Ct thresholds for C. auris and Internal Control were established using 717 sample runs of No Template Control (NTC), Limit of Detection (LoD), Microbial Inhibition, Interference and Limiting Dilution samples. The established thresholds were then confirmed using an independent data set comprising 2,924 sample runs..." These 717 runs could be considered the data used for establishing (or "training") the assay's interpretive parameters.
9. How the Ground Truth for the Training Set Was Established
Given that this is a molecular diagnostic assay and not an AI/ML system, the concept of "ground truth for a training set" as it pertains to labeled examples for model learning is not directly applicable.
Instead, the "establishment" of the assay's operating parameters (like Ct thresholds) was based on experimental data where the expected outcome (presence/absence of C. auris, inhibition, etc.) was known by design:
- No Template Control (NTC): Expected negative.
- Limit of Detection (LoD): Contrived samples with known concentrations of C. auris.
- Microbial Inhibition/Interference: Samples with C. auris at known concentrations (e.g., 3x LoD) spiked with other substances/organisms.
- Limiting Dilution: Samples serially diluted to determine the lowest detectable concentration.
These experiments provide the "ground truth" for setting the assay's interpretive parameters and analytical performance characteristics. The known concentrations, presence/absence of target nucleic acids, and presence/absence of interfering substances served as the factual basis for defining how the device should interpret its signals (e.g., Ct value thresholds for positivity).
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EVALUATION OF AUTOMATIC CLASS III DESIGNATION FOR Simplexa C. auris Direct, Simplexa C. auris Positive Control Pack, Simplexa C. auris Sample Prep Kit (MOL3950, MOL3960, MOL5390) DECISION SUMMARY
I Background Information:
- De Novo Number ব
DEN230092
B Applicant
DiaSorin Molecular LLC
C Proprietary and Established Names
Simplexa C. auris Direct, Simplexa C. auris Positive Control Pack, Simplexa C. auris Sample Prep Kit (MOL3950, MOL3960, MOL5390)
D Regulatory Information
| ProductCode(s) | Classification | RegulationSection | Panel |
|---|---|---|---|
| SBT | Class II | 21 CFR 866.3967 - Deviceto detect microbialcolonization directly fromclinical specimens | MI - Microbiology |
II Submission/Device Overview:
A Purpose for Submission:
De Novo request for evaluation of automatic class III designation for the Simplexa C. auris Direct, Simplexa C. auris Positive Control Pack, Simplexa C. auris Sample Prep Kit (MOL3950, MOL3960, MOL5390)
B Measurand:
Nucleic acids from Candida auris
C Type of Test:
Real-Time PCR nucleic acid amplification test
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III Indications for Use:
A Indication(s) for Use:
The Simplexa C. auris Direct is a real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay intended for use on the LIAISON MDX instrument for the direct in vitro qualitative detection of Candida auris DNA from a composite swab of bilateral axilla/groin from patients suspected of C. auris colonization.
The test is intended to aid in the prevention and control of C. auris infection in healthcare settings by detecting C. auris from colonized patients.
Positive results indicate that the patient is colonized with C. auris. A positive result cannot rule out co-colonization with other pathogens. A negative result does not preclude C. auris colonization or infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or other patient management decisions. Results are meant to be used in conjunction with other clinical, epidemiologic, and laboratory information available to the clinician evaluating the patient. The test is not intended to diagnose or monitor treatment for C. auris infection. Concomitant cultures are necessary to recover organisms for epidemiological typing or for antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
B Special Conditions for Use Statement(s):
Rx - For Prescription Use Only
For in vitro diagnostic use
- C Special Instrument Requirements: The LIAISON MDX (with LIAISON MDX Studio Software, version 2.3)
IV Device/System Characteristics:
A Device Description:
The Simplexa C. auris RT-PCR system is intended for the amplification and qualitative detection of nucleic acid from Candida auris in composite bilateral axilla/groin swab specimens and consists of the following:
-
- The Simplexa C. auris Direct is the RT-PCR assay kit that contains all the reagents for the amplification reaction, including the primers and fluorescent probes for the detection of nucleic acid from Candida auris. The primers and fluorescent probes amplifies the C. auris DNA and Internal Control DNA. In addition, the kit comes with a barcode card, which contains assay specific parameters and lot information.
-
- The Simplexa C. auris Positive Control Pack is the separately packaged external positive quality control kit for use with the Simplexa C. auris Direct assay.
-
- The Simplexa C. auris Sample Prep Kit is the enzymatic buffer solution to receive the sample solution (bilateral axilla/groin swab in Amies transport media) from the patient.
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The Simplexa C. auris RT-PCR system is for use with the LIAISON MDX instrument (with LIAISON MDX Studio Software), the RT-PCR thermocycler that amplifies the nucleic acid from biological specimens and uses real-time fluorescence detection to identify targets, and the Direct Amplification Disc (DAD), which is the accessory containing the input sample wells for use on the LIAISON MDX. The instrument and accessory were previously cleared under K102314 and K120413. The instrument is controlled by an external laptop running the software. The DAD consumable is compartmentalized into eight (8) separate wedges and can process up to eight (8) separate specimens or controls on each disc. Each wedge contains sample and reagent input wells, microfluidic channels and laser activated valves to control the fluid flow as well as a reaction/detection chamber.
B Principle of Operation
The Simplexa C. auris RT-PCR system is a molecular nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) that utilizes RT-PCR technology for the qualitative detection of Candida auris nucleic acids. The assay target primers amplify the conserved region of the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) gene to identify C. auris, and the assay fluorescent probes allow real-time detection of the amplification reaction. The Internal Control monitors PCR failure/inhibition.
Patient samples are collected into the ESwab Collection and Transport System solution (composite bilateral axilla/groin swabs in Amies transport media). To process a patient sample, the user scans the barcode on the Reaction Mix Vial or on the barcode card and on the DAD. A foil seal is lifted and the user adds 50 µL of Reaction Mix to the reagent input well (R) of the DAD using a fixed volume pipette. Next, the user adds 50 uL of the patient sample to the Sample Prep Solution vial and mixes, and 50 µL of the sample preparation is then transferred to the sample well of the DAD. After loading, the wells of the individual wedge are resealed with the original top foil and the tab is removed at the perforation. The LIAISON MDX performs the movement of fluids, mixing of samples and reagents, thermocycling and real-time detection of fluorophores. A sample is considered positive for a particular target if intensity of the optical reading crosses a Ct threshold of 40 for both targets before a predetermined cut-off cycle.
C Instrument Description Information
-
- Instrument Name: LIAISON MDX (with LIAISON MDX Studio Software, version 2.3)
-
- Specimen Identification:
Barcodes on the reagent kit and the barcode card contain the assay definition protocol and parameters for identification for the test and specimen type.
-
- Specimen Sampling and Handling:
Samples are collected using the ESwab collection and transport system, which are composite bilateral axilla/groin swabs in 1mL Liquid Amies. When the sample has been collected, the swab is immediately inserted directly into the transport media and can be stored up to 48 hours at room temperature or up to 7 days at 2 to 8°C. For longer storage, samples may be stored frozen at ≤ -70℃ for up to 30 days. Once the Simplexa C. auris Direct Reaction Mix and Sample Prep Kit vials have thawed, the samples should be processed within 30 minutes.
- Specimen Sampling and Handling:
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- Calibration: Not applicable.
-
- Quality Control:
Internal Control (DNA IC) and Simplexa C. auris Positive Control Pack. An external positive and negative (no template) control are required to be run but not included with the Simplexa C. auris Direct Assay. The Simplexa C. auris Positive Control Pack, which is comprised of inactivated whole cells of C. auris, is available as a separate kit. The instructions for the Simplexa C. auris Direct informs the user that Liquid Amies transport media (from the BD or Copan ESwab) should be used as a No Template Control (NTC).
- Quality Control:
V Standards/Guidance Documents Referenced:
| Document # | Title | Publishing Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 14971 ThirdEdition 2019-12 | Application of Risk Management to Medical Devices | ISO |
| 15223-1 Fourthedition 2021-07 | Medical devices - Symbols to be used with information tobe supplied by the manufacturer - Part 1: Generalrequirements | ISO |
| EP05-A3(Reaffirmed:September 2019) | Evaluation of Precision of Quantitative MeasurementProcedures; Approved Guideline —Third Edition | CLSI |
| EP07 3rd Edition | Interference Testing in Clinical Chemistry | CLSI |
| EP12-A2 | User Protocol for Evaluation of Qualitative TestPerformance; Approved Guideline—Second Edition | CLSI |
| EP15-A3(Reaffirmed:September 2019) | User Verification of Precision and Estimation of Bias;Approved Guideline - Third Edition | CLSI |
| EP25-A(Replaces EP25-P) | Evaluation of Stability of In Vitro Diagnostic Reagents;Approved Guideline | CLSI |
| EP35 1st Edition | Assessment of Equivalence or Suitability of SpecimenTypes for Medical Laboratory Measurement Procedures | CLSI |
| 62304 Edition1.1 2015-06CONSOLIDATED VERSION | Medical device software - Software life cycle processes | IEC |
Table 1. Referenced Standards and Guidance Documents
VI Performance Characteristics:
Analytical Performance:
-
- Precision/Reproducibility:
Precision/reproducibility was conducted to assess the performance of the Simplexa C. auris Direct RT-PCR system. A multisite precision study was conducted at three external testing sites on a total of six (6) panel members: a positive control sample (PC), a negative control sample (No Template Control in Liquid Amies transport media, NTC), and four (4) test samples contrived in negative clinical matrix (NCM), comprised of pooled axilla/groin swabs in Liquid Amies transport media. Contrived samples consisted of a low positive sample (LP)
- Precision/Reproducibility:
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contrived at < 2x the limit of detection (LoD) and a moderate positive (MP) sample contrived at approximately 3x LoD. Both Clade I (South Asian) AR382 and Clade IV (South American) Z485 C. auris strains were used for each LoD level for a total of four (4) contrived samples within the panel. Each panel member was tested by two (2) different operators at each site, and each operator tested each panel member in three (3) replicates each day for five (5) non-consecutive testing days for a total of ninety (90) replicates per panel member (3 replicates × 2 operators × 3 sites × 5 days). At least one (1) set of controls (PC and NTC) were tested on each instrument being used in the study per day for a total of sixty (60) evaluable controls across all sites. One lot each of Reaction Mix (RM), Sample Prep Solution (SPS), and Positive Control (PC) were used. A total of six (6) LIAISON MDX instruments (2 per site) were used, and all runs were performed on LIAISON MDX Studio Software, version 2.3. Results were calculated of the overall mean and overall variability utilizing Ct values, standard deviation (SD) and coefficient of variance (%CV) as well as % agreement of the qualitative result. These studies are summarized in Tables 2 and 3 and demonstrate acceptable results.
| Site 1 | Site 2 | Site 3 | All Sites | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panel Member | Agreement(%) | Avg. Ct ±SD(%CV) | Agreement(%) | Avg. Ct ±SD(%CV) | Agreement(%) | Avg. Ct ±SD(%CV) | Agreement(%) | Avg. Ct ±SD (%CV) | 95% CI |
| Clade I SouthAsian (LP) | 100.0(30/30) | 28.4 ± 1.99(7.0) | 96.7(29/30) a | 28.3 ± 1.53(5.4) | 100.0(30/30) | 29.6 ± 2.21(7.5) | 98.9(89/90) | 28.8 ± 1.99(6.9) | 94.0 - 99.8 |
| Clade I SouthAsian (MP) | 100.0(30/30) | 27.0 ± 0.97(3.6) | 100.0(30/30) | 27.4 ± 1.11(4.1) | 100.0(30/30) | 28.7 ± 1.04(3.6) | 100.0(90/90) | 27.7 ± 1.26(4.6) | 95.9 - 100 |
| Clade IV SouthAmerican (LP) | 100.0(30/30) | 27.6 ± 0.55(2.0) | 100.0(30/30) | 27.8 ± 0.80(2.9) | 100.0(30/30) | 28.5 ± 0.69(2.4) | 100.0(90/90) | 28.0 ± 0.78(2.8) | 95.9 - 100 |
| Clade IV SouthAmerican (MP) | 100.0(30/30) | 26.7 ± 0.63(2.4) | 100.0(30/30) | 27.1 ± 0.99(3.7) | 100.0(30/30) | 27.6 ± 0.70(2.5) | 100.0(90/90) | 27.1 ± 0.86(3.2) | 95.9 - 100 |
| NTC | 100.0(30/30) | 0.0 ± 0.00(N/A) | 100.0(30/30) | 0.0 ± 0.00(N/A) | 100.0(30/30) | 0.0 ± 0.00(N/A) | 100.0(90/90) | 0.0 ± 0.00(N/A) | 95.9 - 100 |
| PC | 100.0(30/30) | 25.8 ± 0.82(3,2) | 100.0(30/30) | 26.4 ± 0.97(3.7) | 100.0(30/30) | 27.1 ± 0.85(3.1) | 100.0(90/90) | 26.4 ± 1.02(3.9) | 95.9 - 100 |
Table 2. Summary Results of Multisite Precision Study by Site
LP= Low Positive, MP= Moderate Positive Control, NTC= No Template Control, Ct= Cycle Threshold, SD= Standard Deviation, %CV= Percent Coefficient of Variation
a One (1) Clade I South Asian (LP) replicate gave a false negative result (C. auris Not Detected).
| Panel Member | N | Mean Ct | Between-day (inter-assay) | Between-operator (between-run) | Between Sites | Repeatability (intra-assay) | Total Reproducibility | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SD | SD | CV (%) | SD | CV (%) | SD | CV (%) | SD | CV (%) | SD | CV (%) | |||
| Clade I South Asian (LP) | 89 a | 28.78 | 0.85 | 2.9 | 0.47 | 1.6 | 0.54 | 1.9 | 2.08 | 7.2 | 2.35 | 8.2 | |
| Clade I South Asian (MP) | 90 | 27.67 | 0.58 | 2.1 | 0.28 | 1.0 | 0.84 | 3.0 | 1.03 | 3.7 | 1.48 | 5.3 | |
| Clade IV South American (LP) | 90 | 27.95 | 0.29 | 1.0 | 0.45 | 1.6 | 0.31 | 1.1 | 0.65 | 2.3 | 0.90 | 3.2 | |
| Clade IV South American (MP) | 90 | 27.13 | 0.40 | 1.5 | 0.31 | 1.1 | 0.37 | 1.4 | 0.78 | 2.9 | 1.00 | 3.7 | |
| NTC | 90 | 0.0 | 0.0 | N/A | 0.0 | N/A | 0.0 | N/A | 0.0 | N/A | 0.0 | N/A | |
| PC | 90 | 26.43 | 0.49 | 1.8 | 0.63 | 2.4 | 0.43 | 1.6 | 0.72 | 2.7 | 1.16 | 4.4 |
Table 3. Summary Variance Results by Component
LP= Low Positive, MP= Moderate Positive Control, NTC= No Template Control, Ct= Cycle Threshold, SD= Standard Deviation. %CV= Percent Coefficient of Variation
a One (1) Clade I South Asian (LP) replicate gave a false negative result (C. auris Not Detected),
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A lot-to-lot precision study was also performed on the six (6) panel members using three test lots to evaluate inter-lot variability. Four (4) runs per day were performed by one (1) operator with one (1) LIAISON MDX instrument with LIAISON MDX Studio Software version 2.3. The study included one (1) lot of Candidate Device Positive Control (PC), three (3) lots of Reaction Mix (RM), one (1) lot of Sample Prep Solution (SPS), and one (1) lot of Direct Amplification Disc (DAD). A total of twenty-four (24) runs were performed across six (6) non-consecutive days for each sample panel member: each was tested eight (8) times on each lot as duplicates of two (2) runs per day over the course of two (2) days. Results of the study were analyzed for overall mean. SD, and %CV for repeatability. inter-lot reproducibility. inter-day reproducibility, inter-run reproducibility and total and presented in Table 4 below.
| Panel Member | % Detected(#/#) | Mean Ct ±SD(%CV) | % Detected(#/#) | Mean Ct ±SD(%CV) | % Detected(#/#) | Mean Ct ±SD(%CV) | % Detected(#/#) | Mean Ct ±SD(%CV) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clade I SouthAsian (LP) | 100.0(8/8) | 27.5 ± 1.0(3.5) | 100.0(8/8) | 28.5 ± 2.5(8.9) | 100.0(8/8) | 28.6 ± 2.0(7.0) | 100.0(24/24) | 28.2 ± 1.9(6.9) |
| Clade I SouthAsian (MP) | 100.0(8/8) | 26.3 ± 0.9(3.3) | 100.0(8/8) | 27.2 ± 2.1(7.8) | 100.0(8/8) | 26.6 ± 0.5(1.8) | 100.0(24/24) | 26.7 ± 1.3(5.0) |
| Clade IV SouthAmerican (LP) | 100.0(8/8) | 27.3 ± 0.7(2.4) | 100.0(8/8) | 27.2 ± 1.1(4.0) | 100.0(8/8) | 27.8 ± 0.7(2.5) | 100.0(24/24) | 27.4 ± 0.8(3.1) |
| Clade IV SouthAmerican (MP) | 100.0(8/8) | 26.4 ± 0.9(3.4) | 100.0(8/8) | 26.4 ± 0.3(1.1) | 100.0(8/8) | 26.7 ± 0.6(2.1) | 100.0(24/24) | 26.5 ± 0.6(2.4) |
| NTC | 0.0(0/8) | 0.0 ± 0.0(N/A) | 0.0(0/8) | 0.0 ± 0.0(N/A) | 0.0(0/8) | 0.0 ± 0.0(N/A) | 0.0(0/24) | 0.0 ± 0.0(N/A) |
| PC | 100.0(8/8) | 25.7 ± 0.7(2.7) | 100.0(8/8) | 25.7 ± 0.9(3.4) | 100.0(8/8) | 26.5 ± 0.6(2.1) | 100.0(24/24) | 26.0 ± 0.8(3.0) |
Table 4. Summary Results of Lot-to-Lot Precision Study
LP= Low Positive, MP= Moderate Positive Control, NTC= No Template Control, Ct= Cycle Threshold, SD= Standard Deviation, %CV= Percent Coefficient of Variation
For the multisite study, the test device showed ≥ 98.9% agreement of the qualitative result and ≤ 8.2% CV for each of the variance components, which is acceptable. For the lot-to-lot study, there was 100% agreement between the expected results and the qualitative results. The combined performance for all three lots is %CV of ≤ 7.2% for all panel members, which is acceptable. Lot-to-lot precision studies were also performed with three (3) lots of Positive Control (PC) and three (3) lots of Sample Preparation Solution (SPS). For PC, there was 100% agreement to expected results for all panel members and %CV of ≤ 8.2% for all three lots. For SPS, there was 100% agreement to expected results for all panel members and %CV of ≤ 6.7% for all three lots.
2. Linearity:
This study is not applicable as the test device is a qualitative assay.
3. Analytical Specificity/Interference:
- a. Cross-reactivity and Microbial Interference
The candidate device was evaluated for analytical specificity/cross-reactivity and interference by testing forty-seven (47) different bacteria and fungi that could be found in axilla/groin swabs. Thirty-four (34) microorganisms were subjected to wet testing and were prepared by spiking each potentially cross-reacting organism into NCM (pooled axilla/groin swabs in Liquid Amies transport media). The testing concentration was 1×106 CFU/mL. For microbial interference testing, samples were further contrived with
{6}------------------------------------------------
either C. auris Clade I AR382 or Clade IV Z485 at 3x LoD. Table 5 shows the results for cross-reactivity and microbial interference testing. Cross-reactivity and microbial interference was not observed with any of the organisms tested.
| Organism | Cross-Reactivity% Detection(# Detected/#Tested) | Clade IInterference% Detection(# Detected/#Tested) | Clade IVInterference% Detection(# Detected/#Tested) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aspergillus fumigatus | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Bacillus cereus | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Bacillus subtilis | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Campylobacter coli | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Campylobacter jejuni | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Candida albicans | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Candida blankii | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Diutina catenulata(Candida catenulata) | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Candida dublinensis | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Candida duobushaemulonii | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Debaryomyces hansenii(Candida famata) | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Candida glabrata | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Pichia guilliermondii(Candida guilliermondii) | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Candida haemulonii | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Pichia kudriavzevii (Candida krusei) | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Clavispora lusitaniae(Candida lusitaniae) | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Candida parapsilosis | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Diutina rugosa (Candida rugosa) | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Candida sake | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Candida tropicalis | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Clostridioides difficile(Clostridium difficile) | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Corynebacterium jeikeium | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Cryptococcus neoformans serotype A | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Escherichia coli | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Kodameae ohmeri | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Listeria monocytogenes serotype 1/2b | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Cutibacterium acnes(Propionibacterium acnes) | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Saccharomyces cerevisiae | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Salmonella enterica Group B | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Salmonella enterica Group E | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Shigella flexneri | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Staphylococcus aureus | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Staphylococcus epidermidis | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
| Yersinia enterocolitica | 0.0% (0/3) | 100% (3/3) | 100% (3/3) |
Table 5. Summary Results of Cross-reactivity and Microbial Interference Studies
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The following organisms were not available for testing: Rhodotorula spp., Microsporum audouinii, Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, Microsporum nanum, Epidermophyton floccosum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton equinum, Trichophyton tonsurans, Trichophyton verracosum, Trichophyton violaceum, Epicoccum spp., and Malassezia furfur. For these organisms, in silico analyses were performed to predict potential cross-reactivity of the assay oligos through a BLAST comparison of the oligo sequences to the GenBank nt sequence database. No cross-reactivity was predicted based on this analysis.
b. Interfering Substances
An interfering substances study was conducted to assess the performance of the candidate device in the presence of medically and/or physiologically relevant concentrations of potentially interfering substances that may be present in axilla/groin swabs. The study evaluated thirty-six (36) potentially interfering endogenous and exogenous substances. Samples were prepared by spiking each potential interferent into a baseline sample consisting of C. auris Clade IV, strain Z485 spiked into NCM (pooled axilla/groin swabs in Liquid Amies transport media) at 3x LoD. Table 6 lists the concentrations of interferents tested and shows the results of interference testing. Interference was observed with anti-breathable deodorant cream at 10% v/v, and the antiseptic Benzalkonium chloride at 0.07% v/v resulting in an invalid result; however, detection is restored when anti-breathable deodorant cream is tested at 5% v/v, and the antimicrobial Benzalkonium chloride is tested at 0.04% v/v. No other interference was observed. This information is noted in the package insert.
| Potential Interferent | Active Ingredient | Concentration | % Detection(#detected/#tested) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral Oil | N/A | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Deodorant cream | N/A | 10% (v/v) | 0% (0/3)Invalid result: IC failure |
| Deodorant cream | N/A | 5% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Balneal lotion | N/A | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Detergent pH5 | N/A | 0.1% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Detergent pH7 | N/A | 1% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Baby powder | N/A | 10% (w/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Cornstarch | N/A | 10% (w/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Bovine submaxillarygland mucin, type I-S | Mucin | 5mg/mL | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Whole blood EDTA | N/A | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Urine | N/A | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Stool | N/A | 10% (w/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Human genome DNA | N/A | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Sweat | N/A | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Disinfectant | Benzocaine | 7% (w/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Antiseptic | Benzalkonium chloride | 0.07% (v/v) | 0% (0/3)Invalid result: IC failure |
| Antiseptic | Benzalkonium chloride | 0.04% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Topical corticosteroid | Triamcinolone | 10% (w/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Antifungal medicine | Miconazole | 2µg/ml | 100.0% (3/3) |
Table 6. Summary Results of Interfering Substances Testing
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| Potential Interferent | Active Ingredient | Concentration | % Detection(#detected/#tested) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aminoglycosideantibiotic | Neomycin | 4µg/ml | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Antifungal medicine | Tioconazole | 10% (w/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Steroid medication | Mometasone fuoroate | 1µg/ml | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Alcohol used in skincareformulations | Benzyl Alcohol | 5% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Antifungal medicine | Nystatin | 0.3mg/ml | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Preparation H | Phenylephrine HCl 0.25%,Pramoxine HCl 1% | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Mupirocin | Mupirocin | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Disinfectant | Chlorhexidine | 7% (w/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Antifungal medication | Clotrimazole | 2µg/ml | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Synthetic AllylamineAntifungals | Butenafine | 2µg/ml | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Antifungal medication | Terbinafine | 2µg/ml | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Skin care productadditive | Cyclomethicone | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Antibacterial andAntifungal agent | Triclosan | 2µg/ml | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Skin care productadditive | Lavender oil | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Skin care productadditive | Tea tree oil | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Preservative | Methylparaben | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Preservative | Propylparaben | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Excipient | Polyethylene glycoldistearates | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
| Excipient | Butylatedhydroxytoluene | 10% (v/v) | 100.0% (3/3) |
4. Assay Reportable Range:
This study is not applicable as the test device is a qualitative assay.
5. Traceability, Stability and Expected Values (Controls, Calibrators, or Methods):
a. Specimen Stability
The candidate device was evaluated for the product's ability to detect C. auris in axilla/groin swabs samples stored under different conditions. Samples were tested individually as negative or as contrived positive samples by spiking C. auris Clade I and Clade IV at different concentrations: 0.5x LoD, 2x LoD and 5x LoD. Samples were tested fresh and then stored at the following conditions: room temperature for 48 and 72 hours, refrigeration at 2 to 8°C for three (3) and eight (8) days, or frozen for a month at or below - 70°C, after being held for seven (7) days at 2-8°C. Sixty (60) samples per clade were prepared at different concentration levels and tested at each storage condition, and the results are presented below. For all samples, 100% of positivity for 5x LoD, at least 95% of positivity for 2x LoD, and 10-90% for 0.5x LoD were the acceptance criteria. Based upon the study results, specimens can be stored for up to 48 hours when stored at room temperature, up to 7 days when stored at 2 to 8°C, and frozen at or below -70°C for 30 days after being stored at 2 to 8°C for 7 days. Results are shown in Table 7.
Table 7. Summary Results of Specimen Stability Study
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| Strain | AnalyteConcentration | Test Condition Detection Rate (%)(#Detected/#Tested) | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh | 48h RT | 72h RT | 3d 2-8°C | 8d 2-8°C | 7d at 2-8°C30d ≤-70°C | ||
| C. aurisClade IAR382 | 5xLoD | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) |
| 2xLoD | 93%(28/30) | 100%(30/30) | 100%(30/30) | 100%(30/30) | 97%(29/30) | 100%(30/30) | |
| 0.5xLoD | 20%(2/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 70%(7/10) | 70%(7/10) | 40%(4/10) | |
| Negative samples | 0%(0/10) | 0%(0/10) | 0%(0/10) | 0%(0/10) | 0%(0/10) | 0%(0/10) | |
| C. aurisClade IVZ485 | 5xLoD | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) |
| 2xLoD | 97%(29/30) | 100%(30/30) | 100%(30/30) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(30/30) | |
| 0.5xLoD | 50%(5/10) | 100%(10/10) | 100%(10/10) | 80%(8/10) | 90%(9/10) | 70%(7/10) | |
| Negative samples | 0%(0/10) | 0%(0/10) | 0%(0/10) | 0%(0/10) | 0%(0/10) | 0%(0/10) |
b. Quality Controls
The test device has an Internal Control (DNA IC) in the Simplexa C. auris Reaction Mix and a separately packaged external positive quality control, the Simplexa C. auris Positive Control Pack. The external positive and a negative, no template control (NTC) containing Liquid Amies are recommended to be run but not included with the Simplexa C. auris Direct Assay. These controls were run as part of the analytical and clinical validations according to the Instructions for Use. In addition, a control specificity study was performed by testing a total of forty-eight (48) replicates of No Template Control (NTC) (ESwab Liguid Amies transport media) for 3 lots each of Reaction Mix and Sample Preparation Solution for a total of 144 replicates. For this study, ESwab Liquid Amies transport media was tested directly from the manufacturer's tube as an unknown sample with no additional sample preparation or manipulation performed. The results showed an analytical specificity of 100% (0% (0/144) C. auris detection rate).
-
- Detection Limit:
The objective of this study was to evaluate the limit of detection (LoD) of the candidate device for C. auris in axilla/groin swab specimen matrix. Samples were prepared by using strains from two representative C. auris clades. Testing was done by contriving C. auris Clade I AR382 or Clade IV Z485 in negative clinical matrix (NCM) composed of pooled cutaneous axilla/groin swab in Liquid Amies transport media and confirmed negative for C. auris by the candidate device. A preliminary LoD was established by testing six (6) replicates at seven (7) concentration levels for both C. auris clades using a single lot of Reaction Mix. The lowest concentration with a 100% detection rate was selected for the confirmatory LoD study. For the confirmatory LoD, sixty (60) total replicates of the preliminary LoD were tested using three (3) lots of the Reaction Mix, twenty (20) replicates for each lot. LoD is defined as the lowest concentration tested with a detection rate of at least 95%. Samples were prepared to target concentrations in CFU/mL determined by calculating the dilutions of the sample preparations according to the supplier's provided concentrations; however, final concentrations were verified by plating and colony counting quantitation. Results are summarized in Table 8.
- Detection Limit:
Table 8. Summary Results of Limit of Detection Study
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| Study | C. auris (Clade I) | C. auris (Clade IV) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concentration(CFU/mL)* | % Detection(#Detected/#Tested) | Concentration(CFU/mL)* | % Detection(#Detected/#Tested) | |
| PreliminaryLoD | 233 | 100% (6/6) | 533 | 100% (6/6) |
| 193 | 100% (6/6) | 303 | 100% (6/6) | |
| 113 | 83% (5/6) | 260 | 100% (6/6) | |
| 127 | 100% (6/6) | 190 | 100% (6/6) | |
| 47 | 100% (6/6) | 143 | 100% (6/6) | |
| 20 | 100% (6/6) | 80 | 83% (5/6) | |
| 10 | 17% (1/6) | 53 | 17% (1/6) | |
| ConfirmatoryLoD | 20 | 5% (1/20) | 143 | 60% (12/20) |
| 47 | 20% (4/20) | 190 | 75% (30/40) | |
| 127 | 15% (3/20) | 260 | 98% (59/60) | |
| 2ndConfirmatoryLoD for Clade I | 20 | 55% (11/20) | ||
| 47 | 90% (36/40) | |||
| 127 | 98% (59/60) |
* The listed concentrations were those determined by plating and colony counting verification testing.
The preliminary LoD result for Clade I was 20 CFU/mL. Because the percentage of detection during the confirmatory LoD study was under 95%, a similar study was conducted using higher concentrations. An internal evaluation of the discordant results between preliminary and confirmatory testing found that the starting stock aliquot used to prepare the dilutions had a lower concentration than was indicated. Confirmatory testing was repeated for C. auris Clade I, and the LoD was determined to be 127 CFU/mL according to plating and colony counting. The preliminary LoD result for Clade IV was 143 CFU/mL. Since a detection lower than 95% was obtained during the confirmatory LoD study, a similar study was conducted using higher concentrations. The LoD of C. auris Clade IV is 260 CFU/mL according to plating and colony counting.
-
- Inclusivity:
Analytical reactivity was evaluated to demonstrate that the candidate device could detect different clades and/or strains of C. auris. For this study, nine (9) strains representing six (6) clades were tested by spiking into negative clinical matrix corresponding to 3x LoD of C. auris Clade I as determined in the LoD study. Test samples were tested in triplicate. Strain stock concentrations provided by the supplier were verified by plating and colony counting. All replicates had a positive result for C. auris detection. Results are summarized in Table 9.
- Inclusivity:
| Sample | Concentration(CFU/mL)By supplier | Concentration(CFU/mL)By plating andcounting | Targetconcentration(CFU/mL) | Testedconcentration(~CFU/mL) | % Detection(#Detected/#Tested) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clade I AR382 | 9.58 x 108 | 2.57 x 108 | 900* | 241 | 100% (3/3) |
| Clade I AR387 | 4.63 x 108 | 1.63 x 108 | 900* | 317 | 100% (3/3) |
| Clade II AR381 | 4.23 x 108 | 2.37 x 108 | 400** | 224 | 100% (3/3) |
| Clade II AR1101 | 4.47 x 108 | 3.47 x 108 | 400** | 310 | 100% (3/3) |
| Clade III AR383 | 7.98 x 108 | 4.10 x 108 | 400** | 205 | 100% (3/3) |
| Clade III AR384 | 1.09 x 109 | 4.67 x 108 | 900* | 386 | 100% (3/3) |
Table 9. Summary Results of Analytical Reactivity Studv
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| Sample | Concentration(CFU/mL)By supplier | Concentration(CFU/mL)By plating andcounting | Targetconcentration(CFU/mL) | Testedconcentration(~CFU/mL) | % Detection(#Detected/#Tested) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clade IV Z485 | 2.64 x 109 | 1.24 x 109 | 900* | 422 | 100% (3/3) |
| Clade IV AR386 | 9.27 x 108 | 7.60 x 107 | 900* | 74 | 100% (3/3) |
| Clade V AR1097 | 3.60 x 108 | 4.85 x 107 | 900* | 121 | 100% (3/3) |
- Samples were prepared to a target concentration of 3x LoD of C. auris Clade I based on the supplier-provided stock concentrations for this strain.
** Samples were prepared to a target concentration of 3x LoD of C. awris Clade I based on the final concentration determined by plating and colony counting quantitation.
In silico inclusivity analysis was also performed of oligo sequences against NCBI GenBank and SRA databases. Percent (%) homology was assessed of each oligo sequence with full coverage of all three oligo-binding regions (forward primer, reverse primer, probe); 736 sequences were aligned, 721 demonstrated oligo identity ≥ 90% with a predicted inclusivity of 98%. The analysis also included two new clade sequences from Clade VI, which was not evaluated in wet testing, and demonstrated 100% homology. Therefore, the assay is predicted to be able to detect this new clade.
8. Assay Cut-Off:
The fluorescence and Ct thresholds for C. auris and Internal Control were established using 717 sample runs of No Template Control (NTC), Limit of Detection (LoD), Microbial Inhibition, Interference and Limiting Dilution samples. The established thresholds were then confirmed using an independent data set comprising 2,924 sample runs from LoD, Carryover/Cross Contamination, Cross-reactivity, Sample Stability, Microbial Inhibition, Inter-lot Reproducibility, Analytical Reactivity, Interference, No Template Control (NTC) Specificity and Open Kit Reagent Stability sample is considered positive for a particular target if intensity of the optical reading crosses a fluorescence threshold of 5,000 or a Ct threshold of 40 for both targets before a predetermined cut-off cycle.
9. Accuracy (Instrument):
Please refer to Section VI.C (Clinical Studies) for the clinical evaluation study and data that establish clinical performance and accuracy of the test device.
10. Carry-Over:
- Carry-Over/Cross Contamination a.
The candidate device was evaluated to assess carry-over contamination. C. auris Clade I AR382 was used to contrive the samples. Samples were prepared in a matrix consisting of pooled C. auris negative axilla/groin ESwab matrix at a high positive (HP) concentration (1×106 CFU/mL formulated to target a Ct ≤ 20). Fifty-six (56) replicates each of HP and negative samples were tested in sixteen (16) runs in which HP and negative sample replicates were alternately loaded into the DAD. The HP sample was 100% detected with a Ct average of 17.6, and the negative sample resulted in 0% detection as shown in Table 10 below.
Table 10. Summary Results of Carry-Over Study
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| Samples | C. auris (FAM)% Detection(#Detected/#Tested) | C. auris (FAM)Mean Ct ± SD(%CV) | Internal Control (Q670)% Detection(#Detected/#Tested) | Internal Control (Q670)Mean Ct ± SD(%CV) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HP | 100% (56/56) | 17.6 ± 0.71(4.0%) | 100% (56/56) | 23.3 ± 0.33(1.4%) |
| Negative | 0% (0/56) | $NA \pm NA$ (NA%) | 100% (56/56) | 23.4 ± 0.35(1.5%) |
- b. DAD Reusability
The Direct Amplification Disc (DAD) is compartmentalized into eight (8) separate wedges and may be reused until all wedges have been utilized. Therefore, a study was performed to demonstrate that the discs may be reused up to eight (8) times without carry-over contamination between runs. A customized assay definition protocol was created in the LIAISON MDX that repeated the cycling parameters for the candidate device eight (8) times with a ten (10) minute pause, or 600 seconds, between iterations. During this pause, the heating elements of the instrument are turned off, and capture steps were implemented at the end of each iteration to detect any signal loss. That is, alternating dyes in each of the eight (8) wells of the DAD were loaded to detect any cross contamination or unexpected signal loss during each iterative cycle. A total of eighteen (18) discs were used in this study, with three (3) DAD lots, six (6) discs per lot. Each DAD was loaded on a separate LIAISON MDX instrument. No fluid check failures or leakage was observed in all eighteen (18) discs by visual inspection or by data analysis.
Comparison Studies:
-
- Method Comparison:
Please refer to Section VI.C (Clinical Studies) below for the clinical validation, regarding the method comparison studies.
- Method Comparison:
-
- Matrix Comparison: Not applicable.
Clinical Studies:
The clinical performance of the Simplexa C. auris Direct RT-PCR system was evaluated for detection of C. auris in a multi-center clinical evaluation at six study sites across four geographically diverse locations within the United States and one in Italy. A prospective study was conducted from April to July 2023 which tested prospectively collected specimens from patients at risk of C. auris colonization tested either fresh or frozen. Demographic information of the prospectively collected specimens that met enrollment criteria and were included in the performance analysis are shown in Table 11.
| Demographic Distribution (N = 1946, %) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Gender | Female | 935 (48.0%) |
| Male | 1011 (52.0%) | |
| Unknown | 0 (0%) | |
| Age Group | 0-1 | 2 (0.1%) |
Table 11. Demographic Summary of Prospective Cohort
{13}------------------------------------------------
| (Years) | >1-5 | 2 (0.1%) |
|---|---|---|
| >5-21 | 38 (2%) | |
| >21-65 | 957 (49.2%) | |
| >65 | 945 (48.6%) | |
| Unknown | 2 (0.1%) | |
| PatientLocation | ER* | 124 (6.4%) |
| ICU* | 572 (29.4%) | |
| Inpatient | 1249 (64.2%) | |
| LTCF* | 1 (0.1%) |
- ER= Emergency room, ICU= Intensive care unit, LTCF= Long-term healthcare facility/nursing home.
The prospective study was supplemented with frozen, archived clinical specimens and fresh, enriched specimens. Specimens were leftover, de-identified composite bilateral axilla/groin swabs in the BD ESwab Collection and Transport System/Copan ESwab Liquid Based Collection and Transport (flocked swab with 1mL of Liquid Amies transport media) stored at either ambient temperature if tested within 48 hours from collection, refrigerated (2-8°C) if tested within three (3) days, or frozen (≤ -70°C) if there was a greater than three (3)-day delay prior to testing.
Clinical performance of the Simplexa C. auris Direct was determined by comparison against the reference method, which consisted of standard of care (SOC) culture followed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for identification. Bi-directional sequencing (BDS) assays were performed when the candidate assay results differed from the comparator method. The results from discordant analysis were not used to alter the original performance but are provided in footnotes to the performance tables.
A total of 1,990 prospective fresh and/or frozen swab specimens were collected, one specimen per enrolled subject. Of these, the prospective cohort consisted of 1,969 evaluable specimens that met enrollment criteria. Eleven (11) retrospective specimens identified as C. auris positive using the comparator method were pre-selected and tested in a randomized, blinded manner alongside prospective specimens at one site. Due to the low prevalence observed at one site, an enrichment strategy was utilized wherein 202 specimens identified as C. auris positive by a laboratoryverified RT-PCR test were enrolled. All enriched specimens were blinded and tested fresh on the candidate device and plated for reference method testing alongside prospective specimens. Of these, the retrospective/enriched cohort consisted of 91 evaluable specimens. Of the 2,060 evaluable clinical specimens in the combined prospective, and enriched studies, twenty-five (25) specimens generated invalid results, six (6) specimens had failed positive controls, and nine (9) specimens gave "No identification/low confidence score" on the comparator. These samples were excluded from the performance analysis leaving 2,020 samples used to determine clinical agreement. Results are presented for the 1,930 prospective cohort samples (Table 12) and the 2,020 combined clinical cohort, which includes 90 enriched and retrospective/pre-selected samples (Table 13). Table 14 provides a summary of performance by study type (prospective, enriched, retrospective) and specimen condition (fresh, frozen).
Table 12. Clinical Performance of Prospective Cohort
| Reference Method(Culture/MALDI-TOF) | Total | |
|---|---|---|
| Positive | Negative |
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| Simplexa C. aurisDirect | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Positive | 32 | 22 | 54 | |
| Negative | 2 | 1874 | 1876 | |
| Total | 34 | 1896 | 1930 |
Positive Percent Agreement (PPA) = 94.1% (32/34) (95% CI: 80.9% - 98.4%) Negative Percent Agreement (NPA) = 98.8% (1874/1896) (95% CI: 98.2% - 99.2%)
Table 13. Clinical Performance of Combined Prospective, Enriched and Retrospective Clinical Cohort
| Reference Method(Culture/MALDI-TOF) | Total | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Positive | Negative | |||
| Simplexa C. auris | Positive | 55 | 25 | 80 |
| Direct | Negative | 3 | 1937 | 1940 |
| Total | 58 | 1962 | 2020 |
Positive Percent Agreement (PPA) = 94.8% (55/58) (95% CI: 85.9% - 98.2%)
Negative Percent Agreement (NPA) = 98.7% (1874/1896) (95% CI: 98.1% - 99.1%)
Table 14. Summary of Combined Clinical Performance for the Simplexa C. auris Direct
| TP /(TP+FN) | PPA (%) | 95% CI | TN /(TN+FP) | NPA (%) | 95% CI | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prospective(n=1930) | Fresh | 20/22 | 90.9 | 72.2 - 97.5 | 1594/1610 | 99.0 | 98.4 - 99.4 |
| Frozen | 12/12 | 100.0 | 75.7 - 100 | 280/286 | 97.9 | 95.5 - 99.0 | |
| Combined | 32/34 | 94.1 | 80.9 - 98.4 | 1874/1896a | 98.8 | 98.2 - 99.2 | |
| Enriched andRetrospective(n=90) | Fresh | 12/13 | 92.3 | 66.7 - 98.6 | 63/66 | 95.5 | 87.5 - 98.4 |
| Frozen | 11/11 | 100 | 74.1 - 100 | 0/0 | NA | NA | |
| Combined | 23/24 | 95.8 | 79.8 - 99.3 | 63/66 | 95.5 | 87.5 - 98.4 | |
| Overall (n=2020) | 55/58b | 94.8 | 85.9 - 98.2 | 1937/1962c,d | 98.7 | 98.1 - 99.1 |
TP= True positive; FN= False negative; FP= False positive; PP=False positive percent agreement; NPA= Negative percent agreement; CI= Confidence interval
a Of the prospective data, eight (8) samples gave low confidence/no ID by culture/MALDI-TOF reference method and twentyfive (25) samples gave an invalid ID by Simplexa C. auris Direct and were excluded from the analysis.
b Three (3) of the three (3) FN samples tested negative by BDS. Of the two (2) FN samples with available SOC laboratoryverified PCR results. one (1) tested negative and one (1) tested positive.
of the 24 FP samples that were tested by BDS, nine (9) tested positive and fifteen (15) tested negative. Of the 17 FP samples that had available SOC laboratory-verified PCR results, ten (10) tested positive and seven (7) tested negative.
Of the combined data, nine (9) samples gave low confidence/no ID by culture/MALDI-TOF reference method and twenty-five (25) samples gave an invalid ID by Simplexa C. auris Direct and were excluded from the analysis.
-
- Clinical Sensitivity:
Please refer to Section VI.C (Clinical Studies) above for the clinical validation. The test sensitivity/positive percent agreement (PPA) is 94.8%
- Clinical Sensitivity:
-
- Clinical Specificity:
Please refer to Section VI.C (Clinical Studies) above for the clinical validation. The test specificity/negative percent agreement (NPA) is 98.7%
- Clinical Specificity:
-
- Other Clinical Supportive Data (When 1. and 2. Are Not Applicable):
Clinical Cut-Off:
Not applicable.
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Expected Values/Reference Range:
The prospective study was conducted from April to July 2023. Out of 1,982 prospective specimens with valid MALDI-TOF MS results, 34 were identified as C. auris positive for a prevalence of 1.71% (34/1982) in the prospective population of this study.
- F Other Supportive Performance Characteristics Data: Not applicable.
VII Proposed Labeling:
The labeling supports the decision to grant the De Novo request for this device.
| Identified Risks to Health | Mitigation Measures |
|---|---|
| Risk of false results | Certain labeling information including limitations,device descriptions, explanations of procedures, andperformance information.Use of certain specimen collection devices.Certain design verification and validation includingdocumentation of device descriptions and certainanalytical and clinical studies. |
| Failure to correctly interpret test results | Certain labeling information including limitations,device descriptions, explanations of procedures, andperformance information.Certain design verification and validation includingdocumentation of device descriptions certainanalytical and clinical studies. |
| Failure to correctly operate the device | Certain labeling information including limitations,device descriptions, explanations of procedures, andperformance information.Use of certain specimen collection devices. |
VIII Identified Risks and Mitigations:
IX Benefit/Risk Assessment:
A Summary of the Assessment of Benefit:
The ability to determine colonization of C. auris has a major public health impact, as C. auris causes invasive healthcare-associated infections and is associated with high mortality rates. Several outbreaks have been described in the US, including in New York, New Jersey, Illinois, and California (Source: Tracking C. auris | Candida auris (C. auris) | CDC). CDC-recommended infection prevention measures to prevent transmission of C. auris in healthcare settings are adherence to hand hygiene, transmission-based precautions and room placement, cleaning and disinfecting patient care environment and reusable equipment with recommended products, communication about patient's C. auris status when a patient is transferred, screening contacts of newly identified case patients to identify colonization, and laboratory surveillance of clinical specimens to detect additional cases (Source: Infection Control Guidance: Candida auris | Candida auris (C. auris) | CDC). Thus, the benefit of the device is the ability to determine
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colonization of C. auris allowing for prompt recognition of patients colonized with C. auris and subsequent infection prevention procedures to prevent further spread in healthcare settings.
B Summary of the Assessment of Risk:
The risks associated with the device, when used as intended, are those related to the risk of false test results, failure to correctly interpret the test results, and failure to correctly operate the device. In cases of false positive results, patients may unnecessarily undergo more strict isolation requirements than indicated. Unnecessary isolation may lead to barriers in healthcare providers accessing patient rooms. Some infection prevention practices group patients in the same area based on their colonization status. In cases of false positive results, it is also possible that noncolonized patients would be cohorted in locations with patients colonized with C. auris and be exposed to C. auris as a result of the false screening test result. While the test is intended for detection of colonization and not active infection, false positive results, when associated with clinical syndromes concerning for infection, may lead clinicians to consider use of measures to address the possibility for C. auris infections such as the use of systemic antifungals where this would otherwise not be considered, and in turn, face adverse events related to the antifungal exposure. In cases of false negative results, patients will not undergo appropriate isolation, and may transmit C. auris to healthcare workers or other patients in their healthcare setting. Failure to correctly interpret results carries the same risks as false results. Failure to correctly operate the device could lead to invalid results requiring retesting and leading to delayed test results. The risk of a delayed result is minimal, given the short time to results with the device.
C Patient Perspectives:
This submission did not include specific information on patient perspectives for this device.
D Summary of the Assessment of Benefit-Risk:
The benefits of the device to rapidly detect colonization with C. auris outweighs the risks in light of the required special controls. C. auris is an emerging pathogen with demonstrated multi-drug resistance. Prompt identification of colonized patients can result in appropriate infection prevention procedures to prevent outbreaks of this highly transmissible pathogen. False positive results run the risk of uncolonized patients being exposed to colonized patients, or being unnecessarily isolated and in turn receiving poorer care. False negative results are not expected to adversely affect an individual patient but could lead to a failure to enact infection prevention procedures and lead to spread of C. auris to other patients and to healthcare workers.
The risk of false results is partially mitigated by CDC-recommended infection prevention and control measures, which would minimize the risk of exposure to patients. Additionally, as colonization does not necessarily predict invasive infection, the risk of false results is mostly spread of C. auris to healthcare workers and other patients. The risk to the patient is further mitigated by usual clinical care, which would involve collection of conventional cultures, should the patient develop signs and/or symptoms of invasive fungal infection. In addition, the risks of false test results are mitigated by certain design verification activities, including analytical and clinical studies and risk analysis strategies to reduce the likelihood of such errors. In addition, the device's performance as observed in the clinical study suggests that errors will be uncommon and will facilitate accurate assay implementation and interpretation of results.
The risks associated with false test results, failure to correctly interpret the results and failure to correctly operate the device are further mitigated by labeling information, which will assist the operator in correctly performing the test. In addition, the device's performance observed in the
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analytical and clinical studies suggests that these errors will be uncommon and will facilitate accurate assay implementation and interpretation of results.
X Conclusion:
The De Novo request is granted and the device is classified under the following and subject to the special controls identified in the letter granting the De Novo request:
Product Code(s): SBT Device Type: Device to detect microbial colonization directly from clinical specimens. Class: II (special controls) Regulation: 21 CFR 866.3967
N/A