Method Comparison Study; Comparative performance study using clinical samples
Clinical samples (implied symptomatic patients)
Sofia RSV FIA on Sofia (predicate device)
Comparable performance between Sofia and Sofia 2
Indications for Use
The Sofia RSV FIA employs immunofluorescence for detection of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) nucleoprotein antigen in nasopharyngeal swab and nasopharyngeal aspirate/wash specimens taken directly from symptomatic patients. This qualitative test is intended for use as an aid in the rapid diagnosis of acute RSV infections in pediatric patients. Negative results do not preclude RSV infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or for other management decisions. A negative result is presumptive, and it is recommended these results be confirmed by viral culture or an FDA-cleared RSV molecular assay. The Sofia RSV FIA may be used with the Sofia or Sofia 2.
Device Story
Sofia RSV FIA is an immunofluorescence-based diagnostic test for RSV nucleoprotein antigen detection. Patient specimens (nasopharyngeal swabs/aspirates) are processed in a reagent tube to disrupt viral particles and expose internal nucleoproteins; the specimen is then applied to a test cassette. The cassette is inserted into the Sofia or Sofia 2 analyzer. The analyzer uses an ultraviolet (UV) light source to illuminate fluorescent tags on the test strip. The device scans the strip, processes the fluorescent signal via method-specific algorithms, and displays qualitative results (Positive/Invalid). Used in clinical settings by healthcare professionals. Sofia 2 features 'Walk Away' mode (automated timing) and 'Read Now' mode (manual timing). The device provides rapid diagnostic aid, enabling timely clinical management of pediatric RSV infections.
Clinical Evidence
Performance studies compared Sofia 2 to the predicate Sofia. Studies included Limit of Detection (LoD) equivalence, precision across multiple operators/days/lots, and method comparison using clinical samples. Reproducibility studies confirmed intra- and inter-operator and inter-laboratory consistency. Results demonstrated comparable performance between the two analyzers. Early read capability in Walk-Away mode allows positive result detection as early as 3 minutes.
Technological Characteristics
Lateral flow immunoassay; sandwich design. Components: sample pad, label pad (fluorescently dyed microparticles with RSV-specific monoclonal antibodies), nitrocellulose test strip, absorbent pad. Energy: UV LEDs for excitation. Detection: CMOS camera (Sofia 2) or scanning optics (Sofia). Connectivity: integrated barcode scanner. Software: embedded assay-specific algorithms. Sterilization: not specified.
Indications for Use
Indicated for symptomatic pediatric patients for the rapid diagnosis of acute RSV infections using nasopharyngeal swab or aspirate/wash specimens.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
Respiratory syncytial virus serological reagents are devices that consist of antigens and antisera used in serological tests to identify antibodies to respiratory syncytial virus in serum. Additionally, some of these reagents consist of respiratory syncytial virus antisera conjugated with a fluorescent dye (immunofluorescent reagents) and used to identify respiratory syncytial viruses from clinical specimens or from tissue culture isolates derived from clinical specimens. The identification aids in the diagnosis of respiratory syncytial virus infections and provides epidemiological information on diseases caused by these viruses. Respiratory syncytial viruses cause a number of respiratory tract infections, including the common cold, pharyngitis, and infantile bronchopneumonia.
Predicate Devices
Sofia RSV FIA performed on the Sofia analyzer (K130398)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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# 510(k) SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE DETERMINATION DECISION SUMMARY
A. 510(k) Number:
K162911
B. Purpose for Submission:
To demonstrate equivalent performance of the Sofia® RSV FIA on the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzer using an assay migration study approach.
C. Measurand:
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) A and B nucleoprotein
D. Type of Test:
Qualitative antigen detection based lateral flow immunoassay
E. Applicant:
Quidel Corporation
F. Proprietary and Established Names:
Sofia® RSV FIA
G. Regulatory Information:
1. Regulation Section:
21 CFR 866.3480, Respiratory syncytial virus serological reagents
2. Classification:
Class I
3. Product Code(s):
GQG
KHO
4. Panel:
Microbiology (83)
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H. Intended Use:
1. Intended Use(s):
The Sofia RSV FIA employs immunofluorescence for detection of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) nucleoprotein antigen in nasopharyngeal swab and nasopharyngeal aspirate/wash specimens taken directly from symptomatic patients. This qualitative test is intended for use as an aid in the rapid diagnosis of acute RSV infections in pediatric patients. Negative results do not preclude RSV infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or for other management decisions. A negative result is presumptive, and it is recommended these results be confirmed by viral culture or an FDA-cleared RSV molecular assay.
The Sofia RSV FIA may be used with the Sofia or Sofia 2.
2. Indication(s) for Use:
Same as intended use
3. Special Conditions for Use Statement(s):
For prescription use only
4. Special Instrument Requirements:
Sofia or Sofia 2
I. Device Description:
1. Overview
The Sofia RSV FIA is a rapid lateral flow immunoassay for the qualitative detection of RSV A and RSV B nucleoprotein from nasopharyngeal (NP) swab and nasopharyngeal aspirate/wash (NA/W) specimens collected from pediatric patients with signs and symptoms of respiratory infection. The Sofia RSV FIA has four main components: (1) a sample pad for receiving the specimen; (2) a label pad containing dried, fluorescently dyed microparticles coated with RSV-specific monoclonal antibodies; (3) a nitrocellulose test strip for the capture of RSV analyte; and (4) an absorbent pad to drive capillary flow. A more detailed description of the lateral flow device is available in submission K130398, under which the Sofia RSV FIA was cleared for use with the original Sofia analyzer.
The purpose of this submission is to obtain 510(k) clearance for the Sofia RSV FIA for use with the newly developed Sofia 2 analyzer. The Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzer are similar in function and design. Both systems utilize the same fail-safes and failure alert mechanisms, the same calibration and assay-specific cartridges, and the same ultraviolet
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light-emitting diodes (UV LEDs) to excite the fluorophore. The primary difference between the original Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzer is the design of the optical detection system. Sofia uses a motorized optics unit to collect fluorescent signal data as it performs a series of scans across the longitudinal axis of the Sofia RSV FIA test strip, whereas Sofia 2 captures a still image of the entire test strip window using a complimentary color-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) camera. To emulate Sofia, the Sofia 2 analyzer converts pixels captured by the CMOS camera to fluorescent signal data, after which the resulting data is analyzed in an equivalent manner to Sofia to yield qualitative test results. Other minor adjustments to the Sofia 2 analyzer affect mainly the user interface and include the addition of a touchscreen display and an integrated barcode scanner for sample identification.
## 2. Materials Provided
- Individually packaged cassettes (25)
- Reagent tubes containing lyophilized buffer (25)
- Vials containing salt solution (25)
- Sterile nasopharyngeal swabs (25)
- Large, pink fixed volume pipettes (25)
- Small, clear fixed volume pipettes (25)
- RSV positive control swab (1)
- Negative control swab (1)
- QC card (1)
- Printer paper
## 3. Materials Not Provided
- Sterile saline for collection of nasopharyngeal aspirate or wash specimens
- Equipment for collection of nasopharyngeal aspirate or wash specimens
- Sofia or Sofia 2 instrument
- Calibration cassette
## 4. Quality Control
The Sofia RSV FIA test strip has several chemically built-in controls to ensure that each test is performed properly. These include the negative control line, reference line, and the procedural control zone.
## Negative Control Line
The negative control line is the first line that the extracted specimen encounters as it migrates across the length of the nitrocellulose test strip. The purpose of the negative control line is to enable the measurement of non-specific binding of the microparticle conjugates to the patient specimen. The fluorescent signal generated at this line is used to calculate background signal and to help ensure that high non-specific binding at the analyte-specific test line does not lead to false positive results. If the reference fluorescent
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units (RFUs) for the negative control line exceed the maximum specifications, the analyzer will report that the result is "invalid."
## Reference Line
The reference line is the last line on the test strip that the extracted specimen encounters before it enters the absorbent pad. The reference line is used to verify adequate sample flow through the nitrocellulose test strip and also serves as a marker to direct the Sofia analyzer to the location of each of the other test lines. If the RFUs for the reference line fall below the minimum specifications, the analyzer will report that the result is "invalid."
## Procedural Control Zone
The procedural control zone is the area of the nitrocellulose test strip that is located between the negative control line and the analyte-specific test line. The RFU signal that is emitted from the procedural control zone provides additional confirmation that adequate flow of the sample has occurred. If the RFU signal falls outside of the minimum and maximum specifications allotted for this zone, the analyzer will report the result as "invalid."
## 5. Results Interpretation
Upon completion of the test, the results are reported as text on the display screen of the Sofia or Sofia 2 analyzer. There are three possible test results for the Sofia RSV FIA: RSV positive, RSV negative, or invalid. If an invalid test result is reported, the Sofia RSV FIA should be repeated with a new patient sample and a new test cassette.
Note: The Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers may be set to one of two operating modes: Walk Away or Read Now. Time to results for the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzer are described below.
- In Walk Away Mode, the user inserts the test cassette into the analyzer immediately following addition of the specimen to the Sofia RSV FIA sample port. The Sofia analyzer automatically times the test development and provides positive or negative test results after 15 minutes. The Sofia 2 analyzer images the test cassette at 3, 5, 8, 10, and 15 minutes and reports a positive test result at the time RSV is detected. If the test is negative, the result will be displayed after 15 minutes.
- In the Read Now Mode, the user incubates the test cassette on the benchtop for 15 minutes before inserting the cassette into the Sofia or Sofia 2 analyzer. Positive and negative test results are displayed within 1 minute.
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J. Substantial Equivalence Information:
1. Predicate Device Name(s):
Sofia RSV FIA performed on the Sofia analyzer
2. Predicate 510(k) Number:
K130398
3. Comparison with Predicate:
Table 1: Comparison with the Predicate Device
| | Similarities and Differences | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | Device | Predicate device |
| Item | Sofia RSV FIA on Sofia 2 | Sofia RSV FIA on Sofia |
| 510(k) number | K162911 | K130398 |
| Regulation | 866.3480 | Same |
| Product code | GQG | Same |
| Device class | I | Same |
| Technology principle of operation | Lateral flow immunoassay | Same |
| Assay targets | RSV A and B nucleoprotein | Same |
| Assay results | Qualitative | Same |
| Intended Use | The Sofia RSV FIA employs immunofluorescence for detection of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) nucleoprotein antigen in nasopharyngeal swab and nasopharyngeal aspirate/wash specimens taken directly from symptomatic patients. This qualitative test is intended for use as an aid in the rapid diagnosis of acute RSV infections in pediatric patients. Negative results do not preclude RSV infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or for other management decisions. A negative result is presumptive, and it is recommended these results be confirmed by viral culture or an FDA-cleared RSV molecular assay. The Sofia RSV FIA may be used with the Sofia or Sofia 2. | The Sofia RSV FIA employs immunofluorescence for detection of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) nucleoprotein antigen in nasopharyngeal swab and nasopharyngeal aspirate/wash specimens taken directly from symptomatic patients. This qualitative test is intended for use as an aid in the rapid diagnosis of acute RSV infections in pediatric patients. Negative results do not preclude RSV infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or for other management decisions. A negative result is presumptive, and it is recommended these results be confirmed by viral culture or an FDA-cleared RSV molecular assay. |
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| | Similarities and Differences | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | Device | Predicate device |
| Item | Sofia RSV FIA on Sofia 2 | Sofia RSV FIA on Sofia |
| Indications for Use | Pediatric patients with signs of respiratory infection in conjunction with clinical and epidemiological risk factors | Same |
| Specimen types | NP swab and NA/W specimens | Same |
| Internal assay controls | Negative control line, procedural control zone and reference line | Same |
| External assay controls | RSV positive and negative control swab | Same |
| Instrument | Sofia 2 | Sofia |
| Dimensions | 19.7 cm x 11.4 cm x 12.7cm | 24 cm x 16 cm x 10 cm |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs | 3 lbs |
| Power supply | 100-240 VAC, self-switching, or with rechargeable lithium polymer battery | 100-240 VAC, self-switching, or with 4 AA batteries |
| Printer | External | Integrated |
| Assay/instrument interface | Drawer | Same |
| User interface | 4 inch color LCD touchscreen display | 3.5 inch diagonal color LCD display and numeric keypad with function specific buttons touchscreen display |
| User types | User and supervisor level plus a Quidel only service level | Same |
| Sample ID | Integrated barcode scanner | External hand-held barcode scanner |
| Cassette ID | Integrated barcode scanner with custom 0.3MP camera | Integrated barcode scanner |
| Optics | CMOS camera converts signal data to RFUs | Scanning optics collects signal data expressed in RFUs |
| Development Modes | Two assay development modes: Walk Away and Read Now | Same |
| Time to obtain results | Potential for early read in Walk-Away Mode. Sofia 2 will image cassette at 3, 5, 8, 10, and 15 minutes until a positive result is obtained. | 15 minutes |
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K. Standard/Guidance Document Referenced (if applicable):
1. Evaluation of Detection Capability for Clinical Laboratory Measurement Procedures. EP17-A2: Approved Guideline-Second Edition 2012.
2. Medical Devices – Application of Risk Management to Medical Devices. ISO 14971:2007/EN ISO 14971:2012.
3. Medical Device Software – Software Life Cycle Process. IEC 62304:2006.
L. Test Principle:
The Sofia RSV FIA is an immunofluorescence-based lateral flow assay that uses a sandwich design for the detection of RSV A and B nucleoprotein antigen. The FDA-cleared Sofia RSV FIA (K130398) has not been modified; it is compatible with the newly developed Sofia 2 analyzer. The Sofia 2 analyzer is a microprocessor-controlled device equipped with UV LEDs for excitation of the fluorophore, a complimentary color-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) camera for image capture, and a multicolor display screen for reporting results. Following illumination of the Sofia RSV FIA cassette by the UV LEDs, the CMOS camera images the entire length of the nitrocellulose test strip window, which includes a negative control line, RSV test line, procedural control zone and reference line. To process the data, Sofia 2 utilizes an analog-to-digital converter to convert the pixels at the test line, negative control line and reference line into a digital value which is in turn converted to an RFU value. The resulting data is analyzed in a similar manner as Sofia to yield a qualitative result.
M. Performance Characteristics
Limited studies were conducted to demonstrate equivalent performance of the Sofia RSV FIA on the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzer. These studies included limit of detection, reproducibility, assay precision, and method comparison. Results from each of these studies are described below. Additional analytical and clinical performance data for the Sofia RSV FIA is available under K130398.
1. Analytical Performance
a. Limit of Detection
The limit of detection (LoD) of the Sofia RSV FIA was established on both the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers. The study included two RSV A and two RSV B strains spiked into negative clinical nasal swab matrix, and was designed to follow the classical approach outlined in CLSI document EP17-A, entitled “Evaluation of Detection Capability for Clinical Laboratory Measurement Procedures.”
Briefly, an initial range finding study was conducted in which each of the four RSV strains were prepared at three different concentrations and tested in replicates of five with two reagent lots on both the Sofia and Sofia 2 instrument platforms. For each strain, the lowest dilution yielding all five positive results was then used to prepare 10 replicates of
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four additional two-fold virus dilutions that were similarly tested with both of the reagent lots and instrument platforms. From this study, the lowest dilution yielding all 10 positive results was defined as the preliminary LoD.
Additional low level testing was performed with a minimum of 60 replicates of each virus strain at the preliminary LoD using a single Sofia RSV FIA reagent lot. Testing spanned three days with at least 20 replicates run per day for each strain, lot and instrument combination. Using these data, the mean signal-to-cutoff ratios (S/CO) and standard deviations were calculated, and the LoD was determined using the parametric analysis equation, with the limit of blank set to $n = 1$ .
The results of the LoD study are shown in the Table 1 below. The LoD values that were initially established for the Sofia RSV FIA on the Sofia analyzer (Sofia*) at the time of product release (K130398) are included in Table 1. The slight variation in LoD values for the Sofia analyzer between studies suggests minimal drift has occurred.
Table 1: Sofia RSV FIA LoD Study results on the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers
| Viral Strain | Platform | LoD (S/CO) | LoD (TCID50/mL) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| RSV A Long | Sofia* | 1.58 | 372 |
| | Sofia | 1.42 | 471 |
| | Sofia 2 | 1.45 | 467 |
| RSV A-2 | Sofia* | 1.75 | 3,153 |
| | Sofia | 1.43 | 5,511 |
| | Sofia 2 | 1.24 | 5,950 |
| RSV B CH93-18(18) | Sofia* | 1.63 | 476 |
| | Sofia | 1.26 | 585 |
| | Sofia 2 | 1.35 | 620 |
| RSV B Washington/18537/62 | Sofia* | 1.19 | 32.3 |
| | Sofia | 1.45 | 78.6 |
| | Sofia 2 | 1.47 | 91.1 |
The newly established LoDs for the Sofia RSV FIA on the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzer differ by less than two-fold, indicating that the instrument platforms are performing equivalently.
# b. Reproducibility
A blinded, multi-center study was conducted to demonstrate that the performance of the Sofia RSV FIA is highly reproducible when tested on the Sofia 2 analyzer. For comparison, testing was also performed on the original Sofia analyzer.
Two operators at three study sites tested a nine-member reproducibility panel on both the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers once per day on five different days (2 operators x 3 sites x 9 panel members x 1 run x 5 days) for a total of 270 runs per instrument platform. The study was conducted in the Read Now mode with a single Sofia RSV FIA reagent lot.
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The reproducibility specimen panel consisted of one RSV A (Long) strain prepared in triplicate at two concentration levels: a "low positive" sample with an analyte concentration approximately 1X the LoD and a "moderate positive" sample with an analyte concentration 2-3X the LoD. The reproducibility panel was prepared in pooled negative clinical nasal swab matrix and included three additional samples consisting of clinical nasal swab matrix only.
The percent agreement between the expected results and the reproducibility study results for the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzer for each analyte concentration tested is shown in Tables 2 and 3, respectively.
Table 2: Qualitative Reproducibility Study Results Using the Sofia analyzer
| Site | Operator | RSV Negative | RSV Low Positive (1X LoD) | RSV Moderate Positive (2-3X LoD) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 1 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| | 2 | 15/15 | 14/15 | 15/15 |
| 2 | 1 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| | 2 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| 3 | 1 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| | 2 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| Combined Total | | 90/90 | 89/90 | 90/90 |
| Percent Agreement | | 100% | 98.9% | 100% |
Table 3: Qualitative Reproducibility Study Results Using the Sofia 2 analyzer
| Site | Operator | RSV Negative | RSV Low Positive (1X LoD) | RSV Moderate Positive (2-3X LoD) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 1 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| | 2 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| 2 | 1 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| | 2 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| 3 | 1 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| | 2 | 15/15 | 15/15 | 15/15 |
| Combined Total | | 90/90 | 90/90 | 90/90 |
| Percent Agreement | | 100% | 98.9% | 100% |
For each of the RSV analyte concentration levels listed above, the mean relative fluorescence units (RFU), standard deviation (SD), and percent coefficient of variation (% CV) were calculated. Results for samples tested using the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers are shown in Tables 4 and 5 below. Also shown below (Table 6) are the corresponding reproducibility standard deviation ratios of the two analyzers, along with the 95% confidence intervals (CI).
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Table 4: Semi-Quantitative Reproducibility Results Using the Sofia Analyzer
| Sample Type | Site | Mean RFU | SD | % CV |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Negative | 1 | 1,257 | 220 | 17.5 |
| | 2 | 1,246 | 211 | 16.9 |
| | 3 | 1,173 | 176 | 15.0 |
| | Average | 1,225 | 204 | 16.7 |
| RSV Low Positive (1X LoD) | 1 | 5,584 | 1,707 | 30.6 |
| | 2 | 4,491 | 488 | 10.9 |
| | 3 | 4,905 | 567 | 11.6 |
| | Average | 4,993 | 1,156 | 23.2 |
| RSV Moderate Positive (2-3X LoD) | 1 | 13,048 | 2,693 | 20.6 |
| | 2 | 11,495 | 1,065 | 9.3 |
| | 3 | 12,378 | 1,209 | 9.8 |
| | Average | 12,307 | 1,902 | 15.5 |
Table 5: Semi-Quantitative Reproducibility Results Using the Sofia 2 Analyzer
| Sample Type | Site | Mean RFU | SD | % CV |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Negative | 1 | 1,236 | 284 | 23.0 |
| | 2 | 1,092 | 244 | 22.3 |
| | 3 | 1,016 | 225 | 22.1 |
| | Average | 1,115 | 266 | 23.8 |
| RSV Low Positive (1X LoD) | 1 | 5,452 | 1,180 | 21.6 |
| | 2 | 4,569 | 532 | 11.6 |
| | 3 | 4,891 | 642 | 13.1 |
| | Average | 4,970 | 903 | 18.2 |
| RSV Moderate Positive (2-3X LoD) | 1 | 12,919 | 1,890 | 14.6 |
| | 2 | 11,589 | 1,330 | 11.5 |
| | 3 | 12,850 | 1,924 | 15.0 |
| | Average | 12,453 | 1,823 | 14.6 |
Table 6: Reproducibility Standard Deviation Ratios (Sofia2/Sofia)
| Site | Analyte Concentration | SD Ratio | Lower 95% CI | Upper 95% CI |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Negative | 1.29 | 0.89 | 1.87 |
| 2 | Negative | 1.15 | 0.80 | 1.67 |
| 3 | Negative | 1.28 | 0.88 | 1.85 |
| 1 | RSV Low Positive | 0.69 | 0.48 | 1.00 |
| 2 | RSV Low Positive | 1.09 | 0.75 | 1.58 |
| 3 | RSV Low Positive | 1.13 | 0.78 | 1.64 |
| 1 | RSV Moderate Positive | 0.70 | 0.48 | 1.02 |
| 2 | RSV Moderate Positive | 1.25 | 0.86 | 1.81 |
| 3 | RSV Moderate Positive | 1.59 | 1.10 | 2.31 |
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Based on this analysis, the numerical output (RFU) and the level of variance that is observed for the Sofia 2 analyzer are comparable to the original Sofia analyzer for each of the RSV analyte concentrations tested.
c. Assay Precision
To supplement the reproducibility study, within-laboratory precision of the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers was evaluated. One strain of RSV A (Long) spiked into negative clinical nasal swab matrix was tested at two different analyte concentrations: a "low positive" sample with an analyte concentration approximately 1X the LoD and a "moderate positive" sample with an analyte concentration 2-3X the LoD. Negative samples consisting of clinical nasal swab matrix only were also included in the testing.
One aliquot of each sample type (negative, low positive and moderate positive) was tested on three Sofia RSV FIA reagent lots, by two operators on 12 different days (1 aliquots x 3 reagent lots x 2 operators x 12 days) totaling 72 replicates per sample per instrument. One Sofia analyzer and one Sofia 2 analyzer were used in this study, both of which were calibrated prior to use on the first day of testing and again after approximately 30 days to ensure that testing was performed over multiple calibration cycles.
Overall percent agreement between the expected results and the precision study results for the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzer is shown in Table 7 below.
Table 7: Qualitative Precision Study Results Summary
| Sample Type | Sofia | | Sofia 2 | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | Overall Agreement | % Overall Agreement | Overall Agreement | % Overall Agreement |
| Negative | 72/72 | 100 | 72/72 | 100 |
| RSV Low Positive (1X LoD) | 72/72 | 100 | 71/72 | 98.6 |
| RSV Moderate Positive (2-3X LoD) | 72/72 | 100 | 72/72 | 100 |
For each of the sample types listed above, the mean relative fluorescence units (RFU), standard deviation (SD), and percent coefficient of variation (%CV) were calculated. Results for samples tested using the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers are shown in Table 8. Also shown (Table 9) are the corresponding reproducibility standard deviation ratios of the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers, along with the 95% confidence intervals (CI).
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Table 8: Semi-Qualitative Precision Study Results Summary
| Platform | Sample Type | Mean RFU | SD | % CV |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sofia | Negative | 1,434 | 225 | 16 |
| | RSV Low Positive (1X LoD) | 5,620 | 875 | 16 |
| | RSV Moderate Positive (2-3X LoD) | 17,983 | 2463 | 14 |
| Sofia 2 | Negative | 1,110 | 196 | 18 |
| | RSV Low Positive (1X LoD) | 5,058 | 847 | 17 |
| | RSV Moderate Positive (2-3X LoD) | 16,755 | 1992 | 12 |
Table 9: Precision Standard Deviation Ratios (Sofia2/Sofia)
| Sample Type | SD Ratio | Lower 95% CI | Upper 95% CI |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Negative | 0.87 | 0.69 | 1.10 |
| RSV Low Positive (1X LoD) | 0.97 | 0.76 | 1.22 |
| RSV Moderate Positive (2-3X LoD) | 0.82 | 0.65 | 1.03 |
Based on this analysis, the numerical output (RFU) and the level of variance that is observed for Sofia 2 analyzer are comparable to the original Sofia analyzer for each of the sample types tested.
# 2. Comparison Studies
# a. Method Comparison
Performance of the Sofia RSV FIA on the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers was evaluated for equivalency in a method comparison study using clinical sample panels. The study was conducted at three study sites using identical specimen panels that consisted of 100 RSV positive and 100 RSV negative clinical samples. The RSV positive panel members were prepared by diluting RSV positive clinical samples into negative clinical matrix. Each preparation was subsequently assigned to one of four analyte concentration levels (Table 10) based on the signal-to-cutoff ratio (S/CO) that was obtained from a single replicate on the Sofia analyzer. For the RSV negative panel members, clinical samples were designated as either negative or high negative if the S/CO values during the initial screening process were $< 0.5$ or $0.5 - 0.9$ , respectively.
Table 10: Method Comparison Panel Member Composition
| Panel Member | Target S/CO | Quantity per panel |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Negative | <0.5 | 67 |
| High Negative | 0.5-0.9 | 33 |
| Low Positive (1X LoD) | 1.2-2.0 | 30 |
| Moderate Positive(2-3X LoD) | 2.1-4.8 | 30 |
| High Positive (4-5X LoD) | 5.6-7.5 | 20 |
| Very High Positive (>5X LoD) | 7.5+ | 20 |
A total of 200 tests were performed at each of the three study sites by two operators on four different Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers. To assess the potential for early read with Sofia 2, data was collected in Walk Away Mode. In this mode, Sofia 2 captures images of
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the Sofia RSV FIA test cassette at 3, 5, 8 and 15 minutes. The overall study results obtained after the full 15 minutes are shown in Table 11 below. Agreement between the results obtained on the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzer for each of the individual analyte levels tested is shown in Table 12.
Table 11: Method Comparison Study Results for the Sofia and Sofia 2 Analyzer
| | Sofia Positive | Sofia Negative |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Sofia 2 Positive | 314 | 10* |
| Sofia 2 Negative | 9* | 267 |
Table 13: Agreement by Analyte Level
| Analyte Level | Qualitative Method Comparison Results | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | | Sofia Positive | Sofia Negative |
| Negative | Sofia 2 Positive | 3* | 0 |
| | Sofia 2 Negative | 0 | 198 |
| High Negative | Sofia 2 Positive | 14 | 8 |
| | Sofia 2 Negative | 8 | 69 |
| Low Positive (1X LoD) | Sofia 2 Positive | 88 | 1 |
| | Sofia 2 Negative | 1 | 0 |
| Moderate Positive (2-3X LoD) | Sofia 2 Positive | 89 | 1 |
| | Sofia 2 Negative | 0 | 0 |
| High Positive (4-5X LoD) | Sofia 2 Positive | 60 | 0 |
| | Sofia 2 Negative | 0 | 0 |
| Strong Positive (>5X LoD) | Sofia 2 Positive | 60 | 0 |
| | Sofia 2 Negative | 0 | 0 |
*Specimens were clearly positive on both the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers, and were likely contaminated, misclassified or mixed at the site.
The positive and negative percent agreement between the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers was 97.2% (314/323; 95% CI: 94.7-98.6) and 96.4% (267/277; 95% CI: 93.4-98.1), respectively. These study results demonstrate that the performance of the Sofia RSV FIA on the Sofia 2 is similar to the predicate device. Furthermore, the number of discordant samples that tested positive on Sofia and negative on Sofia 2 (n = 9) was approximately equivalent to the number of discordant samples that tested positive on Sofia 2 and negative on Sofia (n = 10). Thus, no evidence of significant instrument bias was observed.
A summary of the results that were obtained at the earlier read times on the Sofia 2 analyzers is shown in Table 14 below. For RSV specimens at ≥4X LoD, at least 70% of the specimens yielded positive results by 8 minutes, and at least 25% by 5 minutes. For levels of RSV that were not highly positive, early read times generally did not give positive results.
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Table 14: Summary of Early Read Time Results on the Sofia 2 analyzer
| | | Sofia 2 Results | | | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Analyte Level | Number of Replicates | 3 min | 5 min | 8 min | 15 min |
| Negative | 198 | NEG | NEG | NEG | NEG |
| | 3* | NEG | NEG | NEG | POS |
| High Negative | 77 | NEG | NEG | NEG | NEG |
| | 22 | NEG | NEG | NEG | POS |
| Low Positive | 1 | NEG | NEG | NEG | NEG |
| | 88 | NEG | NEG | NEG | POS |
| | 1* | POS | POS | POS | POS |
| Moderate Positive | 88 | NEG | NEG | NEG | POS |
| | 1 | NEG | NEG | POS | POS |
| | 1* | POS | POS | POS | POS |
| High Positive | 18 | NEG | NEG | NEG | POS |
| | 27 | NEG | NEG | POS | POS |
| | 10 | NEG | POS | POS | POS |
| | 5 | POS | POS | POS | POS |
| Very High Positive | 13 | NEG | NEG | NEG | POS |
| | 4 | NEG | NEG | POS | POS |
| | 3 | NEG | POS | POS | POS |
| | 40 | POS | POS | POS | POS |
*Replicates were clearly positive on both the Sofia and Sofia 2 analyzers, and were likely contaminated, misclassified, or mixed at the site.
# N. Instrumentation/System Description
1. Instrument Name:
Sofia and Sofia 2
2. System Description:
The Sofia instruments are equipped with UV LED lighting and optical detection systems that are designed to collect and analyze fluorescent data emitted from the Sofia RSV FIA test cassettes. The instrument software contains embedded assay-specific algorithms that are used to convert the fluorescent signal data into a qualitative RSV test result.
3. Software:
FDA has reviewed applicant's Hazard Analysis and software development processes for this line of product types.
Yes __X__ or No __
{14}
4. **Level of Concern**
Moderate
5. **Software Description**
The Sofia 2 Analyzer images the test strip and utilizes an embedded software algorithm to process the resulting data set into a qualitative test result. A positive test result for the analyte is determined by detection and analysis of the fluorescent signal at the test and reference lines, which are processed by the assay-specific algorithm. The algorithm employs a smoothing filter to the data and, identifies a peak maxima, minima and width, then calculates the RFU value based on peak height for the RSV test line. Results are presented on a screen and can be printed on an integrated printer.
6. **Specimen Identification**
Specimens are manually loaded onto the Sofia RSV FIA test cassette by the user. Each cassette is labeled with a barcode that is detected by the Sofia 2 internal barcode reader. The 2-dimensional barcode contains lot, expiration, and test method information. If the cassette is not in the correct orientation, the barcode cannot be read and the analyzer will display an error.
7. **Calibration**
To ensure that signal drift is controlled, the Sofia 2 analyzer has a calibration algorithm that enables the operator to insert a calibration cassette specifically prepared and labeled as a Calibration Cassette at least once every 30 days. The Calibration Cassette contains a barcode with specific test information and four fluorescent simulated test lines at predefined locations on the test strip.
O. Other supportive Instrument Characteristics Data Not Covered in the “Performance Characteristics” Section Above
N/A
P. **Proposed Labeling**
The labeling is sufficient and it satisfies the requirements of 21 CFR Part 809.10.
Q. **Conclusion**
The submitted information in the 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.