A leap forward in UTI diagnosis, Sysmex’s PA-100 AST System slashes diagnostic time to just 15 minutes and selects optimal antibiotics within 30. Recent modelling in Spain indicates significant potential healthcare savings. Recognised with the £8 million Longitude Prize, this pioneering system is revolutionising the global battle against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Sysmex is setting a new benchmark in urinary tract infection (UTI) diagnosis and treatment with its innovative PA-100 AST System. Harnessing advanced nanofluidic technology and rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), the device provides clinicians with crucial diagnostic data in just 45 minutes — a sharp contrast to the extended delays typical of conventional lab methods. This accelerated process enables timely, targeted treatments and enhanced patient care.
Hundreds of millions affected by UTIs annually
Globally, UTIs remain one of the most prevalent bacterial infections, affecting more than 400 million individuals each year. Current diagnostic delays and empirical antibiotic prescribing often result in suboptimal care, recurring infections, and escalating rates of AMR. The PA-100 AST System significantly narrows this gap, delivering 84% sensitivity and 99% specificity. It enables prompt, precise treatment, minimising dependence on broad-spectrum antibiotics and helping curb the global spread of antimicrobial resistance.
Alain Baverel, President & CEO Sysmex Europe SE, remarked,
“The PA-100 AST System represents a pivotal innovation in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. By providing clinicians with rapid and precise diagnostic insights, we can transform how urinary tract infections are treated globally. This tool not only benefits patients but also strengthens the financial sustainability of healthcare systems.”
Economic analysis forecasts substantial cost savings in Spain
Recent health-economic modelling projects that integrating the PA-100 AST System into Spain’s public healthcare system could result in significant financial savings. Assuming universal implementation, analysts estimate savings of approximately €323 million in the first year alone. The forecast attributes these reductions to fewer secondary complications, hospital stays, and indirect costs such as lost productivity — with savings projected to compound over three years.
Takashi Ono, Member of the Managing Board and Senior Executive Officer & Managing Director of Sysmex Corporation, commented,
“By addressing one of the leading causes of antibiotic misuse, Sysmex’s PA-100 AST System aligns perfectly with global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance. The system empowers healthcare providers with the data needed to make the right decision at the right time, benefiting patients and public health alike.”
Award-winning innovation tackling antimicrobial resistance
In recognition of its global impact, the PA-100 AST System received the prestigious Longitude Prize last year — an £8 million award for innovations addressing AMR. The accolade underscores the system’s potential to improve clinical outcomes and reduce the burden of resistance on healthcare systems worldwide.
Faster results, fewer complications
Through its sleek, cartridge-based platform — no larger than a smartphone — the PA-100 AST System identifies bacteriuria in just 15 minutes and determines suitable antibiotics in the following 30 minutes. By dramatically accelerating diagnosis, the system reduces delays in care and lowers the risk of treatment complications.