FilmArray Blood Culture Identification (BCID) panel for use with FilmArray Torch
Applicant
Biofire Diagnostics, LLC
Product Code
PEN · Microbiology
Decision Date
Mar 15, 2016
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Special
Regulation
21 CFR 866.3365
Device Class
Class 2
Indications for Use
The FilmArray Blood Culture Identification (BCID) Panel is a qualitative multiplexed nucleic acid-based in vitro diagnostic test intended for use with FilmArray systems. The FilmArray BCID Panel is capable of simultaneous detection and identification of multiple bacterial and yeast nucleic acids and select genetic determinants of antimicrobial resistance. The BCID assay is performed directly on blood culture samples identified as positive by a continuous monitoring blood culture system that demonstrate the presence of organisms as determined by Gram stain. The following gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, and yeast are identified using the FilmArray BCID Panel: Enterococci, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococci (including specific differentiation of Staphylococcus aureus), Streptococci (with specific differentiation of Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Streptococcus pyogenes), Acinetobacter baumannii, Enterobacteriaceae (including specific differentiation of the Enterobacter cloacae complex, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus, and Serratia monocytogenes), Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria meningitidis (encapsulated), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida tropicalis. The FilmArray BCID Panel also contains assays for the detection of genetic determinants of resistance to methicillin (mecA), vancomycin (vanA and vanB), and carbapenems (blaKPC) to aid in the identification of potentially antimicrobial resistant organisms in positive blood culture samples. The antimicrobial resistance gene detected may or may not be associated with the agent responsible for disease. Negative results for these select antimicrobial resistance gene assays do not indicate susceptibility, as multiple mechanisms of resistance to methicillin, vancomycin, and carbapenems exist. FilmArray BCID is indicated as an aid in the diagnosis of specific agents of bacteremia and fungemia and results should be used in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings. Positive FilmArray results do not rule out co-infection with organisms not included in the FilmArray BCID Panel. FilmArray BCID is not intended to monitor treatment for bacteremia or fungemia. Subculturing of positive blood cultures is necessary to recover organisms for susceptibility testing and epidemiological typing, to identify organisms in the blood culture that are not detected by the FilmArray BCID Panel, and for species determination of some Staphylococci, Enterococci, Streptococci, and Enterobacteriaceae that are not specifically identified by the FilmArray BCID Panel assays.
Device Story
The FilmArray BCID Panel is a multiplexed nucleic acid test for positive blood culture samples. It uses a closed-pouch system containing freeze-dried reagents for automated nucleic acid extraction, nested multiplex PCR, and DNA melt analysis. The user loads a sample into the pouch, which is then processed by the FilmArray Torch instrument. The instrument uses pneumatic bladders, pistons, and Peltier heating/cooling to move fluids and drive PCR. A digital camera captures fluorescent images of the array wells after the second-stage PCR. Software automatically interprets melt curves to identify 24 organisms and 3 resistance markers. Results are provided to clinicians to aid in the diagnosis of bloodstream infections. The device is intended for use in clinical laboratory settings. It provides rapid identification (approx. 1 hour) to support clinical decision-making, though it does not replace the need for subculturing for susceptibility testing.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Reproducibility study conducted using contrived samples containing all analytes across three FilmArray Torch systems (12 modules per system) over five days. 90 replicates per analyte were tested. Results showed 100% agreement for positive detection and >98% agreement for negative results.
Technological Characteristics
Nested multiplex PCR with high-resolution melting analysis. Analyte: DNA. Form factor: Integrated system base with stackable modules (up to 12). Edge-load pouch mechanism. Connectivity: Ethernet for module communication. Software: Automated test interpretation and report generation. Reagents: Room temperature storage.
Indications for Use
Indicated for qualitative detection/identification of bacterial/yeast nucleic acids and antimicrobial resistance markers in positive blood culture samples (Gram stain positive) to aid diagnosis of bacteremia/fungemia. Not for treatment monitoring. Requires subculturing for susceptibility testing/typing.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A multiplex nucleic acid assay for identification of microorganisms and resistance markers from positive blood cultures is a qualitative in vitro device intended to simultaneously detect and identify microorganism nucleic acids from blood cultures that test positive by Gram stain or other microbiological stains. The device detects specific nucleic acid sequences for microorganism identification as well as for antimicrobial resistance. This device aids in the diagnosis of bloodstream infections when used in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings. However, the device does not replace traditional methods for culture and susceptibility testing.
Special Controls
In combination with the general controls of the FD&C Act, the Verigene® Gram Positive Blood Culture Nucleic Acid Test is subject to the following special controls: The special controls for the BC-GP Assay are contained in the guideline document entitled "Class II Special Controls Guideline: Multiplex Nucleic Acid Assay for Identification of Microorganisms and Resistance Markers from Positive Blood Cultures."
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The special control for this device is FDA's guideline document entitled “Class II Special Controls Guideline: Multiplex Nucleic Acid Assay for Identification of Microorganisms and Resistance Markers from Positive Blood Cultures.” For availability of the guideline document, see § 866.1(e).
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SPECIAL 510(k): Device Modification OIR Decision Memorandum
To: BioFire Diagnostics, LLC
RE: K160457
This 510(k) submission contains information/data on modifications made to the SUBMITTER'S own Class II device requiring 510(k). The following items are present and acceptable:
1. The name and 510(k) number of the SUBMITTER'S previously cleared device.
Trade Name: FilmArray Blood Culture Identification (BCID) Panel for use with Multi-Instrument FilmArray System (2.0)
510(k) Number: K143171
2. Submitter's statement that the INDICATION/INTENDED USE of the modified device, called "FilmArray® Blood Culture Identification (BCID) Panel for use with FilmArray Torch", as described in its labeling HAS NOT CHANGED along with the proposed labeling which includes instructions for use, and package labeling.
Submitter states in the submission that the intended use of the modified device has not changed from its predicate. The intended use in the labeling is the same.
3. A description of the device MODIFICATION(S), including clearly labeled diagrams, engineering drawings, photographs, assay instruction and instrument operations manuals in sufficient detail to demonstrate that the FUNDAMENTAL SCIENTIFIC TECHNOLOGY of the modified device has not changed.
The modifications of the FilmArray Torch comprise a reconfigured instrument to increase throughput and reduce workspace. Changes include:
1. The computer, barcode scanner, and a touch screen user interface are integrated into the FilmArray Torch System Base instead of being a separate stand-alone computer with monitor, barcode scanner, keyboard, and mouse.
2. The modified FilmArray 2.0 instruments are now called FilmArray Torch Modules. Two FilmArray Torch Modules are included as part of the FilmArray Torch System Base and up to five additional Duplexes, each containing two FilmArray Torch Modules, can be stacked onto the FilmArray Torch System Base to create a system with a 12-pouch testing capability.
3. In order for the FilmArray Torch Modules to be stacked, a new edge-load mechanism for introducing the pouches into the FilmArray Torch Modules was created to replace the previous top-load mechanism. The edge load mechanism automatically pulls the pouch into the FilmArray Torch Module; the pouch is automatically ejected at the end of the run.
4. The workflow for inserting a pouch and starting a run is slightly modified by requiring the user to scan the pouch before loading into the FilmArray Torch Module instead of scanning the pouch after top-loading. This is required due to the barcode being inaccessible once pulled into the FilmArray Torch Module by the edge-load mechanism. Labeling was appended in the instruction manual to address this change.
5. Non-significant changes were made to the FilmArray 2.0 Software in order to control testing of 12 FilmArray Torch Modules from the single computer base.
6. A printer is optional for the FilmArray Torch.
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4. Comparison Information (similarities and differences) to applicant's legally marketed predicate device including, labeling, intended use, physical characteristics, and software is shown in the table below.
| Element | Modified Device: FilmArray BCID Panel for use with the FilmArray Torch | Predicate: FilmArray BCID Panel (K143171) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Organisms Detected | Enterococci, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococci (including specific differentiation of Staphylococcus aureus), Streptococci (with specific differentiation of Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Streptococcus pyogenes), Acinetobacter baumannii, Enterobacteriaceae (including specific differentiation of the Enterobacter cloacae complex, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus, and Serratia marcescens), Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria meningitidis (encapsulated), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis, Candida tropicalis, and resistance markers mecA, vanA, vanB, and blaKPC (KPC) | Same |
| Analyte | DNA | Same |
| Specimen Types | Positive blood culture samples containing gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria and/or yeast. | Same |
| Technological Principles | Nested multiplex PCR followed by high resolution melting analysis to confirm identity of amplified product. | Same |
| Instrumentation | Single instrument FilmArray System, FilmArray 2.0 System, or FilmArray Torch System | Single instrument FilmArray System or FilmArray 2.0 System |
| Instrument-Software Communication | Communication for multiple FilmArray Torch Modules travels via Ethernet cable/port. | Same (multiple instruments) |
| Time to result | About 1 hour | Same |
| Test Interpretation | Automated test interpretation and report generation. User cannot access raw data. | Same |
| Reagent Hydration and Sample Loading | FilmArray Injection Vial-based loading procedure | Same |
| Sample Preparation Method | Sample Processing is automated in the FilmArray BCID pouch. | Same |
| Reagent Storage | Reagents are stored at room temperature. | Same |
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| Controls | Two controls are included in each reagent pouch to control for sample processing and both stages of PCR and melt analysis. | Same |
| --- | --- | --- |
| User Complexity | Moderate/Low | Same |
The indications for use provided below are identical for both devices.
## FilmArray 2.0 (K143171) Indications for use (same as K160457):
The FilmArray Blood Culture Identification (BCID) Panel is a qualitative multiplexed nucleic acid-based *in vitro* diagnostic test intended for use with FilmArray systems. The FilmArray BCID Panel is capable of simultaneous detection and identification of multiple bacterial and yeast nucleic acids and select genetic determinants of antimicrobial resistance. The BCID assay is performed directly on blood culture samples identified as positive by a continuous monitoring blood culture system that demonstrate the presence of organisms as determined by Gram stain.
The following gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, and yeast are identified using the FilmArray BCID Panel: *Enterococci*, *Listeria monocytogenes*, *Staphylococci* (including specific differentiation of *Staphylococcus aureus*), *Streptococci* (with specific differentiation of *Streptococcus agalactiae*, *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, and *Streptococcus pyogenes*), *Acinetobacter baumannii*, *Enterobacteriaceae* (including specific differentiation of the *Enterobacter cloacae* complex, *Escherichia coli*, *Klebsiella oxytoca*, *Klebsiella pneumoniae*, *Proteus*, and *Serratia marcescens*), *Haemophilus influenzae*, *Neisseria meningitidis* (encapsulated), *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*, *Candida albicans*, *Candida glabrata*, *Candida krusei*, *Candida parapsilosis*, and *Candida tropicalis*.
The FilmArray BCID Panel also contains assays for the detection of genetic determinants of resistance to methicillin (mecA), vancomycin (vanA and vanB), and carbapenems (blaKPC) to aid in the identification of potentially antimicrobial resistant organisms in positive blood culture samples. The antimicrobial resistance gene detected may or may not be associated with the agent responsible for disease. Negative results for these select antimicrobial resistance gene assays do not indicate susceptibility, as multiple mechanisms of resistance to methicillin, vancomycin, and carbapenems exist.
FilmArray BCID is indicated as an aid in the diagnosis of specific agents of bacteremia and fungemia and results should be used in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings. Positive FilmArray results do not rule out co-infection with organisms not included in the FilmArray BCID Panel. FilmArray BCID is not intended to monitor treatment for bacteremia or fungemia.
Subculturing of positive blood cultures is necessary to recover organisms for susceptibility testing and epidemiological typing, to identify organisms in the blood culture that are not detected by the FilmArray BCID Panel, and for species determination of some *Staphylococci*, *Enterococci*, *Streptococci*, and *Enterobacteriaceae* that are not specifically identified by the FilmArray BCID Panel assays.
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Page 4 of 5
5. A Design Control Activities Summary was present which includes:
a) Identification of Risk Analysis method(s) used to assess the impact of the modification on the device and its components, and the results of the analysis.
b) Based on the Risk Analysis, an identification of the verification and/or validation activities required, including methods or tests used and acceptance criteria to be applied.
Risk analysis was performed to identify risks, their possible causes, and appropriate control mechanisms. All risks were evaluated in the context of 21 CFR 807.81(a)(3) and FDA's guidance document '501(k) Device Modifications: Deciding When to Submit a 510(k) for a Change to an Existing Device.' Upon analysis, the following risks were found: 1. False negatives caused by minor changes in the FilmArray Torch Module design; 2. False positives caused by pouch ruptures and contamination caused by edge-load ejection mechanism; 3. Delayed or no results caused by user error/confusion with new User Interface or pouches stuck due to new edge-load mechanism. No user injury risks were found. To assess the risks relating to false negatives/positives and delayed/no results, verification and validation studies were performed.
To validate the modified device, precision testing was performed in samples containing the analytes in concentrations that were consistent with what has been previously measured in positive blood cultures. Results of the precision testing indicated that all analytes in the device intended use were detected in 100% of the samples tested. "Not detected" results were obtained in 100% of the negative samples for all analytes except C. krusei, which was obtained in 98% of the negative samples.
In addition to analyte detection, the precision of Tm (melting temperature) on FilmArray Torch was evaluated. The standard deviation in Tm for each assay on each of the 3 FilmArray Torch systems and modules met the acceptance criteria of ±0.5°C or less.
Method comparison studies were performed on the modified and predicate devices with different types of samples in order to determine agreement. Analyte detection and Tm values from reproducibility testing of 4 organisms were equivalent (i.e., 100% agreement) between the 2 systems. Greater than 95% agreement was also obtained between the two systems when comparing negative samples, synthetic templates, and representative organisms.
c) Declaration of Conformity to Design Controls
A "Declaration of Conformity" statement was submitted for the BioFire Diagnostics, LLC manufacturing facility. It was signed by the Vice President, Regulated Products and Clinical Affairs, and the Director of Quality Assurance. The statements indicate that:
i. "To the best of my knowledge, the verification activities, as required for the risk analysis, for the modification were performed by the designated individual(s) and the results demonstrated that the predetermined acceptance criteria were met."
ii. "The manufacturing facility, BioFire Diagnostics, LLC, is in conformance with the design control requirements
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## 6. Conclusion
The labeling for this modified subject device has been reviewed to verify that the indication/intended use for the device is unaffected by the modification. In addition, the submitter's description of the particular modification(s) and the comparative information between the modified and unmodified devices demonstrate that the fundamental scientific technology has not changed. The submitter has provided the design control information as specified in The New 510(k) Paradigm and on this basis, I recommend the device be determined substantially equivalent to the previously cleared device
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.