24/07/2020
Approved PCR Facility,
As we always strive to deliver the latest diagnostic techniques to international standards and quality requirements. We use 2 different automated PCR System, the Boditech and the Cepheid GeneExpert system. With our automated systems we are able to offer standardized PCR results.
Furthermore the HUMAN ERROR is reduced significantly as the automated system performs the most of the pipetting steps fully automated, and NOT by manual pipetting of a lab technician.
The most PCR Lab facilities in Afghanistan are still working on manually systems. This process include allot of pipetting work by the lab technician as reagent parts have to be mixed in a certain order. The manual extraction of the samples is a critical process.
Manual work cannot provide standardized lab results and can lead to false results.
We extract our samples with the NuActor extractor. The NuAvtor perform the extraction process fully automated, eliminating the HUMAN ERROR and contamination of samples.
We use in our facility two swabs for each sample (nasalphatyngeal and oropharyngeal). This is to make sure that if one swab sample does not contain enough viral parts the second swab will help.
Up to 30 % false results are due to the use of only one oropharyngeal swab and due to wrong swab sample technique.
Our PCR reagents only need refrigeration and all reagents are already prepared in the PCR reaction tubes. This again prevents contamination as every tube is already prefilled with the exact amount and type of reagent.
The PCR reaction takes place by the manufacturer pre-programed settings with the dedicated ThermoCycler, the ExAmpler.
Our Cepheid GeneExpert system is even easier as the only manual required work by the lab. Technician, is to add the Sample to the GeneExpert cartridge and to load it in the instrument.
All PCR test steps are performed fully automated (Extraction, Amplification, Detection) and the most test are ready within 60 min.
Each GeneExpert cartridge contains freeze dried reagents, calibrators and controls and can be stored at room temperature.
We follow a strict code of good PCR laboratory practice, working hygienic, and perform wet and UV radiation disinfection of all PCR laboratory rooms three times a day, preventing contamination of reagents and samples.
Our PCR Lab has passed the approval process by the MoPH.
