Lateral flow test

Lateral flow tests, also known as lateral flow immunochromatographic assays, are simple cellulose-based devices intended to detect the presence (or absence) of a target analyte in liquid sample (matrix) without the need for specialized and costly equipment, though many lab-based applications exist that are supported by reading equipment. Typically, these tests are used for medical diagnostics either for home testing, point of care testing, or laboratory use. A widely spread and well known application is the home pregnancy test. Lateral flow tests, also known as lateral flow immunochromatographic assays, are simple cellulose-based devices intended to detect the presence (or absence) of a target analyte in liquid sample (matrix) without the need for specialized and costly equipment, though many lab-based applications exist that are supported by reading equipment. Typically, these tests are used for medical diagnostics either for home testing, point of care testing, or laboratory use. A widely spread and well known application is the home pregnancy test. The technology is based on a series of capillary beds, such as pieces of porous paper, microstructured polymer, or sintered polymer. Each of these elements has the capacity to transport fluid (e.g., urine) spontaneously.