The VITEK MS is an automated system that uses MALDI-TOF (matrix-associated LASER desorption and ionization, time of flight) mass spectrometry; Developed in 1980 by Karas & Hillenkamp (Germany) and Tanaka et al (Japan) analysis technique allowing the detection and identification of molecules by measuring their “time of flight” (proportional to their mass and their charge) First device marketed in 1991.

In Central Africa, Cameroon and particularly the “ Centre Pasteur du Cameroun” is the only laboratory to have a VITEK MS since 2019.

The MAGPIX Luminex Technology is available at the Virology Laboratory

The LoopampTM MTBC assay (Eiken Chemical Company Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) is a rapid molecular diagnostic that uses the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technique for the detection of tuberculosis (TB). This assay is commonly known as TB-LAMP. In 2016, based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of data from 20 studies conducted in 17 countries, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the use of TB-LAMP as a replacement for sputum smear microscopy.

TB-LAMP’s minimal infrastructure requirements and simple instrumentation make it an attractive option for laboratories at the peripheral level in low-and middle-income countries, as well as for active case-finding activities that result in significant numbers of samples that can be batch tested using the HumaLoop T instrument (up to 70 samples per 8-hour shift). The price of $6.00 per sample when batching optimally means TB-LAMP is currently the only WHO-recommended rapid molecular diagnostic that meets the target price established by WHO for a replacement test for microscopy.

Illumina, Nanopore technologies are available.