This test is to be used as an aid in diagnosis of diabetes and as an aid in identifying patients who may be at risk for developing diabetes. The cobas c 501 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.3 assay is an in vitro diagnostics reagent system intended for quantitative determination of mmol/mol hemoglobin Alc (IFCC) and % hemoglobin A1c (DCCT/NGSP) in whole blood on the Roche/Hitachi cobas c 501 clinical chemistry analyzer.
Device Story
The cobas c 501 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.3 is an in vitro diagnostic reagent system for quantitative HbA1c measurement in anticoagulated whole blood. It utilizes a turbidimetric inhibition immunoassay (TINIA) on the Roche cobas c 501 clinical chemistry analyzer. The system performs automated on-board sample pretreatment using a hemolyzing reagent containing Tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide (TTAB) to liberate hemoglobin without lysing leukocytes. The instrument measures the HbA1c/Hb ratio biochromatically and calculates results in IFCC (mmol/mol) and DCCT/NGSP (%) units. Used in clinical laboratory settings by trained technicians. Results assist healthcare providers in diagnosing diabetes and assessing glycemic control. The device is contraindicated for patients with specific hemoglobin variants or conditions affecting red cell turnover, as these interfere with accuracy.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Precision evaluated using 4 HbA1c levels and 2 controls across 3 analyzers and 3 reagent lots over 21 days; total CV ranged from 1.4% to 3.0%. Linearity confirmed across 4.2-20.2% HbA1c range (r²=0.995). Method comparison with HPLC reference method (n=141) showed strong correlation (Deming slope 1.002). Interference studies confirmed no significant impact from common endogenous substances or drugs, but identified significant negative bias with HbF >7%.
Technological Characteristics
Turbidimetric inhibition immunoassay; bichromatic measurement of hemoglobin. Reagents: polyclonal anti-HbA1c from sheep blood. Automated on-board hemolysis. Connectivity: integrated with Roche/Hitachi cobas c 501 analyzer. Calibration: C.f.a.s. HbA1c calibrator; linear mode for Hb, spline mode for HbA1c. Stability: 4 weeks on-board refrigerated.
Indications for Use
Indicated for use as an aid in the diagnosis of diabetes and identifying patients at risk for developing diabetes. Intended for quantitative determination of HbA1c in whole blood samples.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A hemoglobin A1c test system is a device used to measure the percentage concentration of hemoglobin A1c in blood. Measurement of hemoglobin A1c is used as an aid in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and as an aid in the identification of patients at risk for developing diabetes mellitus.
Special Controls
(b) Classification. Class II (special controls). Hemoglobin A1c test systems must comply with the following special controls: 1) The device must have initial and annual standardization verification by a certifying glycohemoglobin standardization organization deemed acceptable by FDA. 2) The premarket notification submission must include performance testing to evaluate precision, accuracy, linearity and interference, including the following: i) Performance testing of device precision must, at a minimum, use blood samples with concentrations near 5.0%, 6.5%, 8.0% and 12% hemoglobin A1c. This testing must evaluate precision over a minimum of 20 days using at least 3 lots of the device and 3 instruments, as applicable. ii) Performance testing of device accuracy must include a minimum of 120 blood samples that span the measuring interval of the new device and compare results of the new device to results of the standardized test method. Results must demonstrate little or no bias versus the standardized method. iii) Total error of the new device must be evaluated using single measurements by the new device compared to results of the standardized test method, and this evaluation must demonstrate a total error less than or equal to 6%. iv) Performance testing must demonstrate that there is little to no interference from common hemoglobin variants, including Hemoglobin C, Hemoglobin D, Hemoglobin E, Hemoglobin A2 and Hemoglobin S. 3) When assay interference from Hemoglobin F or interference with other hemoglobin variants with low frequency in the population is observed, a warning statement must be placed in a black box and must appear in all labeling material for these devices describing the interference and any affected populations.
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The special controls for this device are:(1) The device must have initial and annual standardization verification by a certifying glycohemoglobin standardization organization deemed acceptable by FDA.
(2) The premarket notification submission must include performance testing to evaluate precision, accuracy, linearity, and interference, including the following:
(i) Performance testing of device precision must, at a minimum, use blood samples with concentrations near 5.0 percent, 6.5 percent, 8.0 percent, and 12 percent hemoglobin A1c. This testing must evaluate precision over a minimum of 20 days using at least three lots of the device and three instruments, as applicable.
(ii) Performance testing of device accuracy must include a minimum of 120 blood samples that span the measuring interval of the device and compare results of the new device to results of a standardized test method. Results must demonstrate little or no bias versus the standardized method.
(iii) Total error of the new device must be evaluated using single measurements by the new device compared to results of the standardized test method, and this evaluation must demonstrate a total error less than or equal to 6 percent.
(iv) Performance testing must demonstrate that there is little to no interference from common hemoglobin variants, including Hemoglobin C, Hemoglobin D, Hemoglobin E, Hemoglobin A2, and Hemoglobin S.
(3) When assay interference from Hemoglobin F or interference with other hemoglobin variants with low frequency in the population is observed, a warning statement must be placed in a black box and must appear in all labeling material for these devices describing the interference and any affected populations.
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# 510(k) SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE DETERMINATION DECISION SUMMARY ASSAY ONLY TEMPLATE
A. 510(k) Number:
k121610
B. Purpose for Submission:
Addition of a diagnostic claim to an existing device
C. Measurand:
Whole blood Glycosylated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)
D. Type of Test:
Quantitative turbidimetric inhibition immunoassay
E. Applicant:
Roche Diagnostics Corporation
F. Proprietary and Established Names:
cobas c 501 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.3 assay
G. Regulatory Information:
| Product Code | Classification | Regulation Section | Panel |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| PDJ | Class II | 21 CFR 862.1373 | Chemistry, 75 |
H. Intended Use:
1. Intended use(s):
See indications for use below.
2. Indication(s) for use:
This test is to be used as aid in diagnosis of diabetes and as an aid in identifying patients who may be at risk for developing diabetes. The cobas c 501 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.3
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assay is an in vitro diagnostics reagent system intended for quantitative determination of mmol/mol hemoglobin A1c (IFCC) and % hemoglobin A1c (DCCT/NGSP) in whole blood on the Roche/Hitachi cobas c 501 clinical chemistry analyzer.
3. Special conditions for use statement(s):
This device has significant negative interference with fetal hemoglobin (HbF). HbA1c results are invalid for patients with abnormal amounts of HbF including those with known Hereditary Persistence of Fetal Hemoglobin.
Glycated HbF is not detected by the assay as it does not contain the β-chain that characterizes HbA1c. However, HbF is measured in the total Hb assay and as a consequence, specimens containing high amounts of HbF (>7%) may result in lower than expected mmol/mol HbA1c values (IFCC) and % HbA1c values (DCCT/NGSP).
Hemoglobin A1c should not be used to diagnose diabetes mellitus in patients with a hemoglobinopathy but normal red cell turnover (e.g. sickle cell trait)
Hemoglobin A1c should not be used in pregnant patients, patients with homozygous sickle cell trait, hemolytic anemia, or other hemolytic diseases, and recent significant or chronic blood loss.
Hemoglobin A1c should not be used to diagnose diabetes mellitus in patients with hereditary spherocytosis, malignancies or severe chronic hepatic and renal disease.
Hemoglobin A1c should not be used in the diagnosis of gestational diabetes.
In cases of rapidly evolving type 1 diabetes the increase of HbA1c values might be delayed compared to the acute increase in glucose concentrations. In these conditions diabetes mellitus must be diagnosed based on plasma glucose concentration and/or the typical clinical symptoms.
Hemoglobin A1c testing should not replace glucose testing for type 1 diabetes, in pediatric patients and in pregnant women.
For prescription use only.
4. Special instrument requirements:
All performance data was conducted using the Roche cobas c 501Analyzer
I. Device Description:
The cobas c 501 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.3 consists of two working reagents (R1 and R2) and an Hemolyzing reagent. The R1 reagent consists of antibody reagent, MES buffer: 0.025 mol/L; TRIS buffer: 0.015mol/L, ph6.2; HbA1c antibody (bovine serum):
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$\geq 0.5 \mathrm{mg} / \mathrm{ml}$ ; stabilizers; preservatives (liquid). R2 reagent (Polyhapten reagent) consists of MES buffer: $0.025 \mathrm{~mol} / \mathrm{L}$ ; TRIS buffer: $0.015 \mathrm{~mol} / \mathrm{L}$ , ph 6.2, HbA1c polyhapten: $\geq 8 \mu \mathrm{g} / \mathrm{mL}$ ; stabilizers; detergents and preservatives (liquid).
The cobas c 501 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.3 assay consists of a whole Blood application which uses an automated on-board sample pretreatment with hemolyzing reagent.
Calibrators (Roche Cfas HbA1c) and controls (Roche PreciControl HbA1c norm and path) are recommended for use with this device. The calibrators and controls were previously cleared under $510(\mathrm{k})$ numbers k052101 and k103099, respectively.
# J. Substantial Equivalence Information:
1. Predicate Device name(s):
COBAS INTEGRA 800 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.2 assay
2. Predicate 510(k) number(s)
k121291
3. Comparison with predicate
| Similarities and Differences | | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Item | Candidate Device cobas c 501 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.3 assay (k121610) | Predicate Device COBAS INTEGRA 800 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.2 assay (k121291) |
| Intended Use | In vitro test for the quantitative determination of hemoglobin A1c in hemolysate and whole blood on Roche clinical chemistry analyzers. | Same |
| Sample Types | Li-Heparin, K2-EDTA, K3-EDTA, KF/Na2-EDTA, Na-Heparin, NaF/K-Oxalate, NaF/Na2-EDTA | Same |
| Calibrator | Calibrators (Roche C.f.a.s HbA1c) | Same |
| Instrument Platform | Roche cobas c 501 analyzer | Roche COBAS INTEGRA 800 analyzer |
| Controls | Roche PreciControl HbA1c norm and Roche PreciControl HbA1c path | Same |
| Measuring Range | 4.2-20.1 HbA1c% | 4.3 -24.8 HbA1c% |
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K. Standard/Guidance Document Referenced (if applicable):
CLSI EP5-A2, Evaluation of Precision Performance of Clinical Chemistry Devices; Approved Guideline
CLSI EP6-A, Evaluation of the Linearity of Quantitative Measurement Procedures
CLSI EP17-A, Protocols for Determination of Limits of Detection and Limits of Quantitation; Approved Guideline
L. Test Principle:
Anticoagulated whole blood is hemolyzed prior to determination of HbA1c by a turbidimetric inhibition immunoassay (TINIA). Liberated hemoglobin (Hb) in the hemolyzed sample is converted to a derivative having a characteristic absorption spectrum and measured biochromatically. The instrument calculates the %HbA1c from the HbA1c/Hb ratio according to a user selected protocol.
This method used Tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide (TTAB) as the detergent in the hemolyzing reagent to eliminate interference from leukocytes (TTAB does not lyse leukocytes). Sample pretreatment to remove labile HbA1c is not necessary.
M. Performance Characteristics (if/when applicable):
1. Analytical performance:
a. Precision/Reproducibility:
A precision study was performed by testing 4 levels of HbA1c in anticoagulated venous whole blood patient samples at the following targeted HbA1c values: 5%, 6.5%, 8% and 12%. Additionally 2 controls, PreciControl HbA1c norm and path, were evaluated in this precision study. Precision was evaluated using 3 cobas c 501 chemistry analyzers and 3 lots of reagent on each analyzer. Two aliquots per sample were analyzed twice a day in singlicate for 21 days. All testing was completed within a single calibration cycle for each instrument.
A summary of the results is shown below:
Cobas c 501 Gen.3 Analyzer #1
| Mean | Repeatability | | Between Run | | Between Day | | Between Lot | | Total | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| HbA1c | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV |
| Sample1 5.05% | 0.056 | 1.1 | 0.022 | 0.4 | 0.047 | 0.9 | 0.067 | 1.3 | 0.102 | 2.0 |
| Sample2 6.39% | 0.062 | 1.0 | 0.035 | 0.5 | 0.051 | 0.8 | 0.095 | 1.5 | 0.129 | 2.0 |
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Cobas c 501 Gen.3 Analyzer#2
| Mean | Repeatability | | Between Run | | Between Day | | Between Lot | | Total | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| HbA1c | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV |
| Sample1 5.08% | 0.054 | 1.1 | 0.051 | 1.0 | 0.024 | 0.5 | 0.028 | 0.5 | 0.083 | 1.6 |
| Sample2 6.43% | 0.072 | 1.1 | 0.055 | 0.9 | 0.032 | 0.5 | 0.043 | 0.7 | 0.105 | 1.6 |
| Sample3 8.08% | 0.081 | 1.0 | 0.060 | 0.7 | 0.083 | 1.0 | 0.021 | 0.3 | 0.133 | 1.6 |
| Sample4 11.45% | 0.107 | 0.9 | 0.077 | 0.7 | 0.076 | 0.7 | 0.175 | 1.5 | 0.232 | 2.0 |
| Sample5 5.22% | 0.065 | 1.2 | 0.054 | 1.0 | 0.014 | 0.3 | 0.029 | 0.6 | 0.090 | 1.7 |
| Sample6 9.63% | 0.096 | 1.0 | 0.047 | 0.5 | 0.038 | 0.4 | 0.078 | 0.8 | 0.138 | 1.4 |
Cobas c 501 Gen.3 Analyzer #3
| Mean | Repeatability | | Between Run | | Between Day | | Between Lot | | Total | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| HbA1c | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV |
| Sample1 5.04% | 0.062 | 1.2 | 0.026 | 0.5 | 0.020 | 0.4 | 0.075 | 1.5 | 0.103 | 2.0 |
| Sample2 6.38% | 0.076 | 1.2 | 0.021 | 0.3 | 0.034 | 0.5 | 0.037 | 0.6 | 0.094 | 1.5 |
| Sample3 8.01% | 0.100 | 1.2 | 0.055 | 0.7 | 0.027 | 0.3 | 0.073 | 0.9 | 0.138 | 1.7 |
| Sample4 11.29% | 0.112 | 1.0 | 0.097 | 0.9 | 0.040 | 0.4 | 0.036 | 0.3 | 0.157 | 1.4 |
| Sample5 5.18% | 0.076 | 1.5 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.029 | 0.6 | 0.133 | 2.6 | 0.156 | 3.0 |
| Sample6 9.49% | 0.121 | 1.3 | 0.044 | 0.5 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.116 | 1.2 | 0.174 | 1.8 |
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Cobas c 501 Gen.3 (combined)
| Mean | Repeatability | | Between Run | | Between Day | | Between Lot | | Between Instrument | | Total | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| HbA1c | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV | SD | %CV |
| Sample1 5.05% | 0.058 | 1.1 | 0.036 | 0.7 | 0.032 | 0.6 | 0.060 | 1.2 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.096 | 1.9 |
| Sample2 6.40% | 0.070 | 1.1 | 0.040 | 0.6 | 0.040 | 0.6 | 0.064 | 1.0 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.110 | 1.7 |
| Sample3 7.99% | 0.087 | 1.1 | 0.056 | 0.7 | 0.071 | 0.9 | 0.053 | 0.7 | 0.100 | 1.3 | 0.169 | 2.1 |
| Sample4 11.34% | 0.112 | 1.0 | 0.067 | 0.6 | 0.069 | 0.6 | 0.172 | 1.5 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.227 | 2.0 |
| Sample5 5.19% | 0.068 | 1.3 | 0.035 | 0.7 | 0.034 | 0.7 | 0.090 | 1.7 | 0.000 | 0.0 | 0.123 | 2.4 |
| Sample6 9.51% | 0.102 | 1.1 | 0.039 | 0.4 | 0.040 | 0.4 | 0.130 | 1.4 | 0.079 | 0.8 | 0.192 | 2.0 |
b. Linearity/assay reportable range:
Linearity was evaluated across the measuring range of the device using a whole blood patient sample pool with a high analyte concentration and a diluent pool. Sample pools were mixed in different ratios to obtain a 20-level dilution series with varying concentrations of Hb and HbA1c covering the entire range (low to high) of the assay. The sponsor chose to perform 1st and 3rd order polynomial regression analysis on each of the dilution series. The 3rd order regression was found to generate the best linear fit. The linear regression is
$$
Y = \text{correlation coefficient} = 0.9927
$$
$$
\text{Intercept} = -0.019, \text{slope} = 1.066, r^2 = 0.995
$$
The linearity study was reviewed and found acceptable. Based on linearity results, the sponsor claims the assay is linear across the reportable measuring range of 4.2-20.2 HbA1c%
c. Traceability, Stability, Expected values (controls, calibrators, or methods):
Traceability
The assigned HbA1c and total hemoglobin values of the cobas c Tina-quant Hemoglobin A1c Gen.3 assay is certified with the National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program (NGSP). The NGSP certification expires in one year. See NGSP website for current certification at http://www.ngsp.org.
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The derived result of the ratio (%) from the NGSP correlation is calculated from the individual quantitative results for total hemoglobin and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry (IFCC) units of mmol/mol are calculated using the Master Equation:
$$
\mathrm{IFCC} = \frac{(\mathrm{NGSP} - 2.15)}{0.092}
$$
Two different units are provided to the customers:
NGSP equivalent units (%) and IFCC equivalents units (mmol/mol)
**Calibrator and Control materials:**
Value assignment for calibrators (Roche C.f.a.s HbA1c) and controls (Roche PreciControl HbA1c norm and PreciControl HbA1c path) that are recommended for use with this device were previously established under 510(k) numbers k052101 and k103099 respectively.
**Stability**
Stability for calibrators (Roche Cfas HbA1c) and controls (Roche PreciControl HbA1c norm and PreciControl HbA1c path) that are recommended for use with this device were previously established under 510(k) numbers k052101 and k103099 respectively.
**d. Detection limit:**
The Limit of Blank (LoB) and Limit of Detection (LoD) were determined by assaying an analyte free sample (blank) and five low HbA1c samples according to CLSI guideline EP17A. Each sample was assayed twice a day for three days on two Roche cobas c 501 analyzers using the hemolysate application. The detection limits are summarized in the table below.
| Platform/Method | LoB (%A1c) | LoD (%A1c) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Roche c 501 analyzer | 2.3% | 2.5% |
**e. Analytical specificity:**
**i.) Endogenous Interference**
Interference studies were performed to assess common or known substances that could interfere with the cobas c 501 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.3 assay. Pooled whole blood was spiked with the maximum level of interferent and the same whole blood pool, without interferent (control), was analyzed and compared to the samples
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which contained the interferent. The interfering substances were evaluated at two HbA1c levels (~6.2 and ~8.5% HbA1c). Serial dilutions were performed and samples were analyzed to establish at which point the interferent may affect the assay. No significant interference was defined as the % recovery of ≤ ± 7% of the expected 100% recovery. Results showed that no significant interference was found with the following substances up to the stated concentrations below:
| Lipemia | 600 mg/dL |
| --- | --- |
| Conjugated Bilirubin | 60 mg/dL |
| Unconjugated bilirubin | 60 mg/dL |
| Rheumatoid Factor | 750 IU/mL |
| Glucose | 1000 mg/dL |
| Total Protein | 21 g/dL |
ii.) Drug interferences were also evaluated. Two HbA1c concentrations of pooled whole blood (~6.3% and ~8.6%) were spiked with the maximum level of potential interference and % HbA1c values were compared to the same sample with no potential interferent present. Significant interference was considered present if the % recovery of HbA1c exceeded ± 7% of the expected 100% recovery. Results showed that no significant interference was found with the following substances up to the stated concentrations below:
| Endogenous Substance | Level Tested with No Significant Interference |
| --- | --- |
| Acetylcystein | 150 mg/L |
| Ampicillin-Na | 1000 mg/L |
| Ascorbic Acid | 300 mg/L |
| Cefoxitin | 2500 mg/L |
| Heparin | 5000 U/L |
| Levodopa | 20 mg/L |
| Methyldopa | 20 mg/L |
| Metronidazole | 200 mg/L |
| Doxycyclin | 50 mg/L |
| Acetylsalicylic Acid | 1000 mg/L |
| Rifampicin | 60 mg/L |
| Cyclosporine | 5 mg/L |
| Acetaminophen | 200 mg/L |
| Ibuprofen | 500 mg/L |
| Theophylline | 100 mg/L |
| Phenylbutazone | 400 mg/L |
iii.) Cross Reactivity with Hemoglobin Derivatives:
Potential interference from HbA0, HbA1a+b, Acetylated Hb, Carbamylated Hb,
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Glycated Albumin, and Labile HbA1c were evaluated. Two HbA1c concentrations of pooled whole blood (~6.3% and ~ 8.7%) were spiked with the prepared potential interferent, (HbA0: 12mg/mL, HbA1a+b: 0.16mg/mL, acetylated Hb: 0.2 mg/mL, Carbamylated Hb: 0.2 mg/mL and glycated albumin: 1mg/mL). The % HbA1c values were compared to the same sample with no potential interferent present. Ten replicates of each sample pool and different mixing ratios of the pools were analyzed on the cobas c 501 analyzer. Significant interference was considered present if the % recovery of HbA1c exceeded ± 7% of the expected 100% recovery. The sponsor states that there were no cross reactions at physiologically occurring concentrations with HbA0, HbA1a, HbA1b, acetylated hemoglobin, carbamylated hemoglobin, glycated albumin and labile HbA1c.
iv.) Hemoglobin Variant Interference:
A hemoglobin variant interference study was performed using a total of 116 samples known to contain Hemoglobin variants S, C, E, D, A2 and F. Testing of the samples was performed in singlicate on the cobas c 501 analyzer and compared to results obtained by a reference method that has been demonstrated to be free from the hemoglobin interference being tested. The following is a table of samples that were measured:
| Hemoglobin Variant | Number of Samples | % Content of Variant in sample | Range in Concentration in % HbA1c |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| HbS | 20 | 31-42% S | 4.6-13.0 |
| HbC | 19 | 33-44% C | 4.7-13.0 |
| HbE | 20 | 27-33% E | 5.0-9.7 |
| HbD | 20 | 34-42% D | 4.8-9.8 |
| HbF | 20 | 2-28% F | 5.8-10.1 |
| HbA2 | 17 | 4-7% A2 | 4.9-8.6 |
Hemoglobin Variant Results Summary
| | Percent Relative Bias from Reference Method at Low and High Concentrations of HbA1c Samples | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Hb Variant | ~6.0 % HbA1c | ~9.0 % HbA1c |
| C | -3.07 | -0.35 |
| S | 2.17 | 3.42 |
| E | -1.58 | 3.46 |
| D | -2.30 | 3.35 |
| A2 | -5.73 | -4.12 |
| F | Bias exceeds -7% when HbF content exceeds + 7% (see below for additional discussion on HbF) | |
The results show there is no significant interference for HbS, HbC, HbE, HbD, and HbA2 at the concentrations stated in the table above.
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The results show there is significant interference due to the presence of HbF in the sample. The extent of interference is directly proportional to the amount of HbF contained within the sample. The labeling states that, "Specimens containing high amounts of HbF (>7%) may result in lower than expected mmol/mol HbA1c values (IFCC) and % HbA1c values (DCCT/NGSP). No significant interference is observed among specimens tested that contain <7% HbF. A negative bias with HbF is directly proportional in magnitude to the %HbF content. For example, significant interference that produces a negative bias of 7% was observed with specimens containing 7% HbF."
In addition, the device labeling contains the following prominent boxed warning:
"This device has significant negative interference with fetal hemoglobin (HbF). HbA1c results are invalid for patients with abnormal amounts of HbF including those with known Hereditary Persistence of Fetal Hemoglobin. Refer to the Limitations-interference section of this package insert for details."
The device contains the following additional warnings:
"Whenever it is suspected that the presence of an Hb variant (e.g. HbSS, HbCC or HBSC) affects the correlation between the HbA1c value and glycemic control, HbA1c must not be used for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus."
f. Assay cut-off:
Not applicable.
2. Comparison studies:
a. Method comparison with predicate device:
The method comparison study was conducted using 141 variant free samples ranging from 4.7 to 12.2% HbA1c were evaluated using the candidate assay method cobas c 501 Tina-quant HbA1cDx Gen.3 assay method. Samples were tested in singlicate over a 3 day period. The results were compared to testing performed at a secondary NGSP reference laboratory using a cleared HPLC-based HbA1c assay. To support the diagnostic claim, the distribution of samples spanned a concentration around the clinical decision points as follows:
| Hemoglobin A1c level | Number of samples | %samples tested |
| --- | --- | --- |
| ≤ 5% | 5 | 3.5% |
| 5 – 6% | 21 | 14.9% |
| 6 – 6.5% | 28 | 19.9% |
| 6.5 – 7% | 33 | 23.4% |
| 7 – 8% | 27 | 19.1% |
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| 8 – 9% | 15 | 10.6% |
| --- | --- | --- |
| > 9% | 12 | 8.5% |
| Total samples | 141 | 100% |
Deming (weighted) and Passing-Bablok regression analyses were performed for the Tina-quant HbA1c Gen. 3 (whole blood application) versus the reference method.
Summary of results are as follows:
| | y-intercept | Slope |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Deming | -0.114 | 1.002 |
| | 95% CI: -0.301 to 0.072 | 95% CI: 0.974 to 1.0285 |
| Passing-Bablok | -0.135 | 1.006 |
| | 95% CI: -0.297 to 0.010 | 95% C: 0.983 to 1.031 |

The following biases between the cobas c 501 Tina-quant HbA1c Gen.3 assay versus NGSP Tosoh HPLC (Reference Method) were observed:
| Decision Level | Bias | %Bias |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 5.2 | -0.103 | -1.98 |
| 6.5 | -0.094 | -1.45 |
| 8.0 | -0.085 | -1.06 |
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# Total Error Near the Cutoff
Using the results of bias estimation (%Bias) in the method comparison study and precision estimates in the reproducibility study, Total Error (TE) three concentrations: (5.2%, 6.5% and 8.0%) was calculated as follows: %TE =|%Bias| + 1.96 *%CV*(1+%Bias). The results are presented in the tables below.
| Decision Level | %Bias | %CV | %TE |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 5.2 | -1.98% | 2.07% | 6.0% |
| 6.5 | -1.45% | 1.7% | 4.7% |
| 8.0 | -1.06% | 2.1% | 5.1% |
## b. Matrix comparison:
Acceptable sample types for this assay include Li-Heparin, K2-EDTA, K3-EDTA, KF/Na2-EDTA, Na-Heparin, NaF/K-Oxalate and NaF/Na2-EDTA. Previously established in k102914.
## 3. Clinical studies:
a. Clinical Sensitivity:
Not applicable.
b. Clinical specificity:
Not applicable.
c. Other clinical supportive data (when a. and b. are not applicable):
Not applicable.
## 4. Clinical cut-off:
Not applicable.
## 5. Expected values/Reference range:
Protocol 1 (acc. to IFCC): 20-42 mmol/mol HbA1c
Protocol 2 (acc. to DCCT/NGSP): 4.0-6.0 % HbA1c
HbA1c levels higher than the upper end of this reference range are an indication of hyperglycemia during the preceding 2 to 3 months or longer. According to the
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recommendations of the American Diabetes Association values above 48 mmol/mol HbA1c (IFCC) or 6.5 % HbA1c (DCCT/NGSP) are suitable for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. Patients with HbA1c values in the range of 39-46 mmol/mol HbA1c (IFCC) or 5.7-6.4 % HbA1c (DCCT/NGSP) may be at a risk of developing diabetes. $^{1,2}$
HbA1c levels may reach 195 mmol/mol (IFCC) or 20 % (DCCT/NGSP) or higher in poorly controlled diabetes. Therapeutic action is suggested at levels above 64 mmol/mol HbA1c (IFCC) or 8 % HbA1c (DCCT/NGSP). Diabetes patients with HbA1c levels below 53 mmol/mol HbA1c (IFCC) or 7 % HbA1c (DCCT/NGSP) meet the goal of the American Diabetes Association. $^{3,4}$
HbA1c levels below the established reference range may indicate recent episodes of hypoglycemia, the presence of Hb variants, or shortened lifetime of erythrocytes.
Each laboratory should investigate the transferability of the expected values to its own patient population and if necessary determine its own reference ranges.
$^{1}$ International Expert Committee Report on the Role of the A1C Assay in the Diagnosis of Diabetes. Diabetes Care 2009; 32(7):1327-1334
$^{2}$ Diagnosis and Classification of Diabetes Mellitus. Diabetes Care 2010; 33(1):62-69.
$^{3}$ Sacks BW, Bruns DE, Goldstein DE, et al. Guidelines and recommendations for laboratory analysis in the diagnosis and management of diabetes mellitus. Clin Chem 2002;48:436-472.
$^{4}$ American Diabetes Association. Standards of Medical Care for patients with diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Care [Suppl.] 1995;18(1):8-15.
## N. Proposed Labeling:
The labeling is sufficient and it satisfies the requirements of 21 CFR Part 809.10.
## O. Conclusion:
The submitted information in this premarket notification is complete and supports a substantial equivalence decision.
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Learn the FDA Browser
Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.