The quantification and detection methods normally used in microbiology are centered on phenotypic characters where immunological tests and the study of metabolic characteristics are highlighted. Despite the many advantages, these types of procedures also have several disadvantages, such as low specificity, the time required to attain results as well as often producing unclear results.
The development of molecular biology diagnostic kits, particularly the nucleic-acid amplification procedure which uses a polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, has changed the scientific landscape in microbiological diagnosis, as well as other areas where nucleic acids are quantified. The PCR procedure seems to be a highly effective alternative to the more traditional methods, as PCR techniques are extremely specific and sensitive, are able to detect viable cells through RNA study and are very fast, being able to produce cellular quantification data in real time.
The primary difficulty quality-control laboratories find with implementing traditional molecular diagnostics is the production of accurate design and validating of the accuracy of the detection systems. Because of the failings of traditional testing methods, a new line of diagnostic kits have been developed. New diagnostic kits offer serval advantages, including detection and quantification of microorganisms, including Legionella and other bacterial microorganisms.
Kit design incorporates specific internal controls that allow for the evaluation of the presence of false negatives as a result of the existence of possible PCR reaction inhibitors in samples. All diagnostic kits are produced under the strictest quality controls to be sure results are accurate and meet all product specifications. New diagnostic kits and reference resources are characterized by being simple to use and are easily employed by technicians who may not have an extensive knowledge base in molecular biology, as detailed manuals and easy user guides are supplied with the kits that provide clear instructions for both positive and negative controls and results.