Suitcase-Sized Microbiology and Clinical Laboratories for Deployed Military Medical Use.
Abstract
Microbiology and clinical laboratory capabilities are necessary wherever military personnel are deployed. Two suitcase-sized prototype laboratories were developed at the Biological Sciences Department of Naval Health Research Center. Their combined weight is 25 kg, with a volume of 4.5 cubic feet. Equipment includes a McArthur microscope, an electrophoresis apparatus, a waterbath-incubator, a reflectance spectrophotometer and a centrifuge. Diagnostic reagents for counterimmunoelectrophoresis and coagglutination allow for detection of the bacterial causes of meningitis, diarrheal disease, and pneumonia. Urinalysis, routine hematology, serology, and limited chemistry studies can be performed. These laboratories were tested during deployments in jungle, desert, and cold weather environments. Results from the portable laboratories were comparable with those from standard laboratories. Portable, rapid diagnostic services should be considered a reality. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA123634
Entities
People
- Earl A. Edwards
- Michael E. Kilpatrick
- Russell K. Boehm
- Warren R. Sanborn
- William T. Harrington
Organizations
- Naval Health Research Center