A new automated diagnostic device lets physicians more quickly gauge a cancer patient's response to prescribed treatment. The CellTracks Auto Prep system manufactured by Astro Instrumentation, Strongsville, Ohio, and Immunicon Corp., Huntingdon Valley, Pa., is helping oncologists in the battle against breast cancer.

The CellTracks' cell isolation process lets doctors continually monitor circulating tumor cells in a patient with metastatic cancer. The machine gathers data on circulating tumor-cell counts at the onset of treatment and every three to four weeks thereafter. This information then lets oncologists evaluate and adjust regimens as needed.

A quick disconnect coupling from Colder Products Co., St. Paul, Minn. fits on a bulk-fluid module that contains the waste, buffer, and a cleaning solution supply. A leak-free coupling limits exposure of harsh cleaning chemicals and biohazards, such as whole blood, to medical technologists who must change the bottles. The coupling also prevents the formation of air bubbles in reagent lines, which could potentially affect the accuracy of the reagent delivery and the system results.

“Precise control of the waste and buffer supply is vital to the ability of the system to isolate circulating tumor cells and determine a correct cell count,” says Michael Kagan, vice president of operations at Immunicon Corporation. “The Colder connection prevents air bubbles and leaks in the system and makes it easier for operators to access and handle fluid lines.”