What Did Theranos Test For: A Comprehensive Guide
Theranos, the once-prominent start-up that promised to revolutionize blood testing, operated at the intersection of medical diagnostics and technological innovation. While much of the focus on Theranos surrounds its controversial business practices, it is important to understand what tests Theranos was capable of conducting. This article provides a detailed exploration of the diagnostic capabilities of Theranos, its advancements, and the scope of its medical applications.
The Core of Theranos' Technology
Theranos developed a compact blood testing device that could reportedly perform over 200 different medical tests from a single pinprick of blood. This device, known internally as the Edison, streamlined the process of blood analysis by reducing the need for traditional hospital-based labs, making it accessible for patients to obtain results faster and more conveniently.
Blood Tests Offered by Theranos
The range of tests offered by Theranos was diverse and could include:
Complete Blood Count (CBC) Cholesterol profile Blood glucose levels Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) RA factor (rheumatoid arthritis indicator) Iron levels Lipid panelsTheranos and FDA Approval
In 2015, Theranos made significant strides when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved its fingerstick blood testing device, known as Verigility, for the detection of the Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) outside a clinical laboratory setting. This marked a major milestone for the company, as it allowed for greater flexibility and convenience in diagnostic testing.
Theranos' Awards and Recognitions
Theranos garnered additional recognition by being named the 2015 Bioscience Company of the Year by the Arizona BioIndustry Association (AzBio), highlighting the innovation and impact of its technology in the medical diagnostics field.
The Controversies and Challenges
While Theranos promised groundbreaking technology, the company faced significant scrutiny and controversies, which ultimately led to its downfall. Independent investigations by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) and global regulators, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), revealed discrepancies in the company's claims and practices.
However, despite the controversies, the advancements in medical diagnostics and testing technology that Theranos attempted to achieve were significant. The company's innovations aimed to make healthcare more accessible, efficient, and patient-focused.
Conclusion
The tests that Theranos was capable of conducting reflect a significant step forward in medical diagnostics. Its fingerstick blood testing device and the range of tests it could perform demonstrated the potential of portable and accessible medical testing. While the company's ultimate failure is a cautionary tale, the technology and its applications continue to hold promise for future advancements in medical diagnostics.
FAQ
Q: What did Theranos claim it could do with its blood tests?
A: Theranos claimed its technology could run over 200 tests from a single blood drop using a compact device. This included tests for various medical conditions such as cholesterol, blood glucose levels, and sexually transmitted infections.
Q: Was Theranos ever FDA approved?
A: Yes, in 2015, the FDA approved Theranos' Verigility device for detecting Herpes simplex virus type 1 outside a clinical setting.
Q: What were the key medical tests offered by Theranos?
A: Theranos offered a range of tests including Complete Blood Count (CBC), cholesterol profile, blood glucose levels, and sexually transmitted infections such as Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1).