FAQ - Actim CRP
A: The test has three, rather than one detection limits. Therefore an increasing number of lines will appear in the result window according to increasing CRP level in the blood sample. The red control line should always appear to confirm correct performance of the test.
Q: What are the detection limits of the test?
A: The detection limits of the test are 10, 40 and 80 mg/l. Although the sample is whole blood, these concentrations refer to the serum levels of CRP in the sample.
Q: Can the dipstick be left in the sample to develop?
A: The dipstick should be removed from the sample as soon as the liquid front becomes visible in the result window. Appearance of the liquid front in the result window indicates that enough sample has been absorbed by the dipstick. If the dipstick is left in the sample, the dipstick goes on absorbing the sample which in turn may lead into uncontrollable flow and inappropriate dilution of the critical components on the dipstick.
Q: Should the intensity of the lines be compared?
A: The number of the blue lines appearing at the result window will determine the test result. It is likely, that the intensity of the first line will be stronger that the subsequent lines and the third line usually always remains weak.
Q: When should the test result be read?
A: In tests with just one detection limit, the test result can be interpreted as positive as soon as two blue lines appear at the result window. With the Actim CRP test, it is necessary to wait for 5 minutes to confirm the test result, to make sure that all the relevant lines have appeared. It is important to interpret the result at 5 minutes. Because the immunochromatographic reaction proceeds over time, no attention should be paid to lines appearing after five minutes.
Q: What type of sample should be used?
A: The test is designed for whole blood samples. In addition to the capillary sample taken from the fingertip, also heparin, EDTA or citrate blood can be used, as these coagulants do not interfere with the performance of the test.
