MicroProbe Corp. has received FDA permission to export a testkit for identification of microorganisms associated withperiodontal disease, the most common cause of tooth loss inadults.

The privately held Bothell, Wash., company plans to export itsAffirm DP Microbial Identification Test System to Australia,Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong,Norway, South Africa, Spain and Switzerland.

The system, which has no FDA market clearance in the U.S.,represents the first direct DNA-probe test for in-office use asan adjunct to clinical evaluation for differentiating the bacteriaassociated with the disease.

Delivering results in less than 40 minutes, the test gives dentalpractitioners a timely tool to counsel patients and monitortherapy.

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