Small HIV detection device with iPod

The Palo Alto company has developed an iPod-sized, hand-held HIV detector that can help patients immunocompromise at the scene for 10 minutes.

Currently, only in big cities, new clinics have full blood screening equipment to allow doctors to monitor the progression of HIV infection to treat early and more effectively. But the examination and testing is still time consuming and must be carried out at medical centers.

To meet this need, scientists at the Palo Alto R & D firm designed a device that was the size of an iPod that helped identify HIV as bulky machines. Laboratory. Experts promise to be able to test the immune system quickly, in less than 10 minutes.

According to Peter Kiesel, the team's spokesman, the device could be equipped for medical staff. They can carry it in their backpacks easily and travel to poor areas in Africa and Asia.

The analyzer by taking a small blood sample on the finger. Blood cells are projected with a laser beam to detect and count CD4 + T cells, cells in the immune system that are "killed" by the HIV virus.

The estimated cost of the HIV detector was determined by the company at $ 250, 10 times cheaper than current testers.

The prospect of the machine is huge. It is especially useful for health care professionals working in key areas of HIV infection, particularly in Africa and Asia.

The company intends, this device will be commercially manufactured in 2012.