The cobas b 101 instrument is a multi-assay system designed to quantitatively analyze cobas reagent discs. The system is intended for professional, in vitro diagnostic use in a clinical laboratory setting or point-of-care (PoC) locations. The cobas HbA1c Test is an in vitro diagnostic test designed to quantitatively determine glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in capillary finger-stick or venous whole blood, collected in EDTA (K2 or K3) or lithium heparin tubes, on the cobas b 101 instrument. This test is intended for professional use in a clinical laboratory setting or point-of-care (PoC) locations. This test is not for screening or diagnosis of diabetes or neonatal use. Measurement of hemoglobin A1c is used to monitor long term blood glucose control in patients previously diagnosed with diabetes.
Device Story
The cobas b 101 system is a benchtop, automated, multi-assay analyzer for professional use in clinical labs or point-of-care settings. It processes single-use reagent discs containing capillary or venous whole blood samples. The system uses capillary forces for self-filling, requiring no pre-analytics or operator intervention during measurement. It performs photometric analysis: total hemoglobin is measured via SLS-hemoglobin complex at 525 nm; HbA1c is measured via latex agglutination inhibition at 625 nm. The device calculates the % HbA1c ratio. Results are displayed on the instrument screen, with optional barcode scanning for patient ID and external printing. Data can be transmitted to LIMS via Ethernet or USB (POCT1-A2 standard). The system provides quantitative results to healthcare providers to monitor long-term blood glucose control in diabetic patients, aiding in clinical decision-making regarding treatment goals.
Clinical Evidence
Clinical performance was evaluated via method comparison at 3 point-of-care sites using 125-133 samples per site. Comparison against Tosoh G8 HPLC reference method showed high correlation (Pearson's r=0.99) across capillary, EDTA, and lithium heparin matrices. Precision studies (n=84 per sample) demonstrated total CVs ranging from 1.2% to 4.2%. Linearity was confirmed across the 4-12% HbA1c range. No significant interference was found for common drugs, endogenous substances, or hemoglobin variants (HbAS, HbAC, HbAE, HbA2).
Indicated for professional use in clinical labs or point-of-care settings to monitor long-term blood glucose control in patients previously diagnosed with diabetes. Not for screening, diagnosis of diabetes, or neonatal use. Contraindicated for patients with conditions causing shortened red blood cell survival (e.g., hemolytic diseases, sickle cell trait, pregnancy, significant blood loss).
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A glycosylated hemoglobin assay is a device used to measure the glycosylated hemoglobins (A1a , A1b , and A1c ) in a patient's blood by a column chromatographic procedure. Measurement of glycosylated hemoglobin is used to assess the level of control of a patient's diabetes and to determine the proper insulin dosage for a patient. Elevated levels of glycosylated hemoglobin indicate uncontrolled diabetes in a patient.
Predicate Devices
Siemens DCA Vantage (k071466)
Reference Devices
Tina-quant HbA1c Gen.3 (k121610)
Tosoh G8 (k071132)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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510(k) SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE DETERMINATION DECISION SUMMARY ASSAY AND INSTRUMENT COMBINATION TEMPLATE
A. 510(k) Number:
k163633
B. Purpose for Submission:
New Device
C. Measurand:
Whole blood glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c)
D. Type of Test:
Latex agglutination inhibition
E. Applicant:
Roche Diagnostics Operations
F. Proprietary and Established Names:
cobas HbA1c Test
cobas b 101 system
G. Regulatory Information:
| Product Code | Classification | Regulation Section | Panel |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| LCP | Class II | 21 CFR 864.7470
Glycosylated hemoglobin assay | Hematology (81) |
| JJE | Class I | 21 CFR 862.2160
Discrete photometric chemistry analyzer | Chemistry (75) |
H. Intended Use:
1. Intended use(s):
See indications for use below.
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2. Indication(s) for use:
Cobas HbA1c Test: The cobas HbA1c Test is an in vitro diagnostic test designed to quantitatively determine glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in capillary finger-stick or venous whole blood, collected in EDTA (K₂ or K₃) or lithium heparin tubes, on the cobas b 101 instrument. This test is intended for professional use in a clinical laboratory setting or point-of-care (PoC) locations. This test is not for screening or diagnosis of diabetes or neonatal use. Measurement of hemoglobin A1c is used to monitor long term blood glucose control in patients previously diagnosed with diabetes.
Cobas 101 system: The cobas b 101 instrument is a multi-assay system designed to quantitatively analyze cobas reagent discs. The system is intended for professional, in vitro diagnostic use in a clinical laboratory setting or point-of-care (PoC) locations.
3. Special conditions for use statement(s):
- This test is not for screening or diagnosis of diabetes or neonatal use
- For clinical laboratory and point-of-care use
- Use fresh whole blood only. Do not use plasma and serum.
- For prescription use only
- The test is not intended for judging day-to-day glucose control and should not be used to replace daily home testing of urine or blood glucose.
- This test should not be used for analyzing samples from patients with conditions causing shortened red blood cell survival, such as hemolytic diseases, homozygous sickle cell trait, pregnancy and significant acute or chronic blood loss
- Glycated HbF is not detected by this assay as it does not contain the glycated beta-chain that characterizes HbA1c. However, HbF levels (>10%) may result in lower than expected %HbA1c values (DCCT/NGSP).
4. Special instrument requirements:
cobas b 101 system
I. Device Description:
The cobas HbA1c test is an in vitro diagnostic test designed to measure glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in capillary or venous whole blood samples on the cobas b 101 instrument. The cobas b 101 system is a bench top analyzer which measures HbA1c. The system is fully automated, self-contained and utilizes a single use reagent disc. The operator applies sample to the disc and places the disc in the instrument. The disc is self-filling by capillary forces. At completion of the test, the instrument displays a quantitative result.
The cobas HbA1c Test contains 10 tests. Each test contains:
- Dilution buffer: TRIS (hydroxymethylaminomethane)
- Erythrocyte Hemolysis: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
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- Sodium Chloride
- Denaturation: Potassium ferricyanide, sucrose laurate
- HbA1c antibody-Latex conjugate
- Agglutination: Glycopeptide-globulin conjugate
The cobas HbA1c Control a ready to use solution based on hemolyzed human blood. The control is used for monitoring accuracy and precision of the cobas HbA1c Test. The adjusted concentrations of the control components are in the normal range (Level 1) and in the pathological range (Level 2).
# J. Substantial Equivalence Information:
1. Predicate device name(s):
Siemens DCA Vantage
2. Predicate 510(k) number(s):
k071466
3. Comparison with predicate:
| Similarities / Differences | | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Item | Candidate Device cobas b 101 system/cobas HbA1c Test k163633 | Predicate Device Siemens DCA Vantage k071466 |
| Intended Use | Quantitative determination of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in human whole blood samples to monitor long term blood glucose control. | Same |
| Methodology | Latex agglutination - inhibition immunoassay | Monoclonal antibody agglutination |
| Sample Type | Whole blood: capillary and venous | Same |
| Sample Anticoagulant | EDTA(K2or K3), lithium heparin | EDTA, heparin, fluoride/oxalate, citrate |
| Detection Method | Photometry | Same |
| Sample Type | Whole blood: capillary and venous | Same |
| Calibration method | Calibration information read from each reagent disc | Calibration read from a calibration card for each reagent lot |
| Traceability/Standardization | IFCC, NGSP | Same |
| Sample volume | 2μL | 1 μL |
| Sample Total Hemoglobin Range | 6-20 g/dL | 7-24 g/dL |
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| Similarities / Differences | | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Item | Candidate Device
cobas b 101 system/cobas HbA1c Test
k163633 | Predicate Device
Siemens DCA Vantage
k071466 |
| Sample Application | Sample collected directly to the disc or by transfer of sample using pipette or dropper. | Sample collected in capillary holder. Holder inserted into cartridge. |
| Application Test Time | <6 minutes | 6.5 minutes |
| Reagent stability | 16 months at 2-30 °C (36-86 °F) | 3 months at room temperature |
| Measuring range | 4-12% HbA1c | 2.5-14% HbA1c |
| Test Platform | Single use | Same |
| Operating Temperature | 15-32 °C (59-90 °F) | 15-32 °C (61-88 °F) |
K. Standard/Guidance Document Referenced (if applicable):
CLSI EP05-A3- Evaluation of Precision of Quantitative Procedures; Approved Guideline
CLSI EP06-A- Evaluation of the Linearity of Quantitative Measurement Procedure: A statistical Approach; Approved Guideline
CLSI EP7-A2 Interference Testing in Clinical Chemistry; Approved Guideline-Second Edition
CLSI EP9-A3 – Measurement Procedure Comparison and Bias Estimation Using Patient Samples; Approved Guideline
CLSI EP25A-Evaluation of Stability of In Vitro Diagnostic Reagents; Approved Guideline
IEC 62304:2006 Medical device software - Software life cycle processes
IEC 61010-1 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use - part 1: general requirements
IEC 60601-1-2 Medical electrical equipment - part 1-2: general requirements for basic safety and essential performance - collateral standard: electromagnetic compatibility - requirements and tests
L. Test Principle:
The device is based on a latex agglutination inhibition immunoassay. The blood sample is diluted and mixed with TRIS buffer to release hemoglobin from the erythrocytes. A fraction of the sample is conveyed into a reaction chamber where it is mixed with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). SLS is used to form the SLS-hemoglobin complex. The concentration of total
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hemoglobin is calculated by measuring SLS-hemoglobin complex with a wavelength of 525 nm. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in another fraction of the sample is first denaturated by potassium ferricyanide and sucrose laurate. The denatured HbA1c bonds with HbA1c antibody on the latex particle. Latex agglutination inhibition reaction then occurs by reacting the agglutinator that has synthetic antigen which can bond with HbA1c antibody. The concentration of HbA1c is calculated by measuring the latex agglutination inhibition reaction with a wavelength of 625 nm. The % hemoglobin A1c value is measured using a ratio of concentrations of HbA1c to total hemoglobin.
## M. Performance Characteristics (if/when applicable):
### 1. Analytical performance:
#### a. Precision/Reproducibility:
An internal precision study was performed according to CLSI EP05-A3 on one cobas b 101 instrument with two cobas HbA1c Test disc lots and one cobas HbA1c Control lot. Two control samples and nine K₂-EDTA venous whole blood samples were measured over 21 days. The protocol consisted of measuring the sample material in duplicate in two runs per day for 21 days producing n=84 results per sample. Samples and runs were randomized each day.
NGSP units (%HbA1c):
| | | | Repeatability | | Between run | | Between day | | Total | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sample | N | Mean (%) | SD | % CV | SD | % CV | SD | % CV | SD | % CV |
| Sample 1 | 84 | 5.2 | 0.14 | 2.8 | 0.00 | 0.0 | 0.04 | 0.8 | 0.15 | 2.9 |
| Sample 2 | 84 | 5.5 | 0.10 | 1.8 | 0.03 | 0.6 | 0.05 | 1.0 | 0.12 | 2.1 |
| Sample 3 | 84 | 7.8 | 0.13 | 1.7 | 0.00 | 0.0 | 0.04 | 0.5 | 0.14 | 1.7 |
| Sample 4 | 84 | 10.3 | 0.11 | 1.1 | 0.00 | 0.0 | 0.06 | 0.5 | 0.13 | 1.2 |
| Sample 5 | 84 | 5.0 | 0.08 | 1.7 | 0.00 | 0.0 | 0.05 | 1.0 | 0.10 | 2.0 |
| Sample 6 | 84 | 5.6 | 0.07 | 1.2 | 0.02 | 0.3 | 0.04 | 0.7 | 0.08 | 1.5 |
| Sample 7 | 84 | 6.9 | 0.11 | 1.6 | 0.00 | 0.0 | 0.05 | 0.8 | 0.12 | 1.8 |
| Sample 8 | 84 | 8.2 | 0.10 | 1.2 | 0.02 | 0.3 | 0.03 | 0.4 | 0.11 | 1.3 |
| HbA1c Control Level 1 | 84 | 5.1 | 0.08 | 1.7 | 0.02 | 0.4 | 0.05 | 0.9 | 0.10 | 1.9 |
| HbA1c Control Level 2 | 84 | 9.3 | 0.10 | 1.0 | 0.04 | 0.5 | 0.13 | 1.3 | 0.16 | 1.8 |
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An external precision study was performed according to CLSI EP05-A3 at three point-of-care (POC) sites. At each site, the samples were measured in duplicate two times per day for 21 days for a total of $n = 168$ measurements. Six cobas b 101 instruments with three reagent disc lots were used in the study. Each POC site assessed two reagent disc lots on two cobas b 101 instruments. Three lots of controls and five human sample pools were tested. Control Level 1 target range was 4.1 - 6.5 and Control Level 2 target range was 7.9-12.1. The five EDTA ( $K_3$ ) venous whole blood samples expected target concentrations were WB ~ 5.0, WB1 ~ 5.7, WB3 ~ 8.0 and WBP ~ 12.0. The results are summarized in the tables below.
NGSP units (%HbA1c):
| | | | | Repeatability | | Between run | | Between day | | Total | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sample | Site | N | Mean (%) | SD | % CV | SD | % CV | SD | % CV | SD | % CV |
| WB | Site 1 | 168 | 5.3 | 0.06 | 1.2 | 0.04 | 0.9 | 0.04 | 0.7 | 0.09 | 1.6 |
| | Site 2 | 168 | 5.2 | 0.07 | 1.4 | 0.00 | 0.0 | 0.05 | 0.9 | 0.09 | 1.7 |
| | Site 3 | 168 | 5.1 | 0.08 | 1.5 | 0.03 | 0.6 | 0.02 | 0.3 | 0.09 | 1.7 |
| | Combined | 504 | 5.2 | 0.07 | 1.4 | 0.03 | 0.6 | 0.06 | 1.1 | 0.10 | 1.9 |
| WB 1 | Site 1 | 168 | 5.4 | 0.07 | 1.3 | 0.03 | 0.5 | 0.06 | 1.2 | 0.10 | 1.8 |
| | Site 2 | 168 | 5.3 | 0.07 | 1.3 | 0.04 | 0.8 | 0.03 | 0.6 | 0.09 | 1.6 |
| | Site 3 | 168 | 5.3 | 0.08 | 1.5 | 0.03 | 0.7 | 0.02 | 0.4 | 0.09 | 1.7 |
| | Combined | 504 | 5.3 | 0.07 | 1.4 | 0.04 | 0.7 | 0.06 | 1.1 | 0.10 | 1.9 |
| WB 3 | Site 1 | 168 | 8.0 | 0.13 | 1.6 | 0.13 | 1.6 | 0.00 | 0.0 | 0.18 | 2.3 |
| | Site 2 | 168 | 7.9 | 0.10 | 1.3 | 0.04 | 0.5 | 0.06 | 0.7 | 0.12 | 1.5 |
| | Site 3 | 168 | 8.0 | 0.24 | 3.0 | 0.08 | 1.0 | 0.16 | 2.0 | 0.30 | 3.8 |
| | Combined | 504 | 8.0 | 0.17 | 2.1 | 0.09 | 1.1 | 0.11 | 1.3 | 0.22 | 2.7 |
| WBP | Site 1 | 168 | 10.9 | 0.11 | 1.0 | 0.01 | 0.1 | 0.04 | 0.3 | 0.11 | 1.0 |
| | Site 2 | 168 | 10.8 | 0.13 | 1.2 | 0.08 | 0.8 | 0.00 | 0.0 | 0.16 | 1.4 |
| | Site 3 | 168 | 10.8 | 0.12 | 1.1 | 0.02 | 0.2 | 0.06 | 0.5 | 0.13 | 1.2 |
| | Combined | 504 | 10.8 | 0.12 | 1.1 | 0.05 | 0.5 | 0.06 | 0.6 | 0.14 | 1.3 |
| HbA1c Control Level 1 | Site 1 | 168 | 5.2 | 0.10 | 2.0 | 0.09 | 1.8 | 0.17 | 3.2 | 0.22 | 4.2 |
| | Site 2 | 168 | 5.1 | 0.09 | 1.8 | 0.05 | 1.0 | 0.17 | 3.4 | 0.20 | 4.0 |
| | Site 3 | 168 | 5.2 | 0.13 | 2.5 | 0.00 | 0.0 | 0.07 | 1.3 | 0.14 | 2.8 |
| | Combined | 504 | 5.2 | 0.11 | 2.1 | 0.06 | 1.1 | 0.14 | 2.8 | 0.19 | 3.7 |
| HbA1c Control Level 2 | Site 1 | 168 | 10.2 | 0.17 | 1.7 | 0.13 | 1.2 | 0.26 | 2.6 | 0.34 | 3.3 |
| | Site 2 | 168 | 10.1 | 0.14 | 1.4 | 0.19 | 1.9 | 0.14 | 1.4 | 0.27 | 2.7 |
| | Site 3 | 168 | 9.9 | 0.15 | 1.6 | 0.08 | 0.8 | 0.18 | 1.8 | 0.25 | 2.5 |
| | Combined | 504 | 10.1 | 0.16 | 1.5 | 0.14 | 1.4 | 0.23 | 2.3 | 0.31 | 3.1 |
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b. Linearity/assay reportable range:
The linearity study was evaluated according to CLSI-EP06-A. Linearity was verified on the cobas b 101 System using 11 dilutions of a low (3.6 % HbA1c) and high (12.9 % HbA1c) K₂-EDTA whole blood sample. Single measurements on three instruments were performed for every dilution level. The following sample concentrations were tested: 3.6, 4.8, 6.2, 7.2, 8.2, 9.0, 9.7, 10.7, 11.4, 12.1, and 12.9% HbA1c. The linearity regression results are in the table below:
NGSP units (%HbA1c):
| Slope | Intercept | Pearson’s R | Claimed Measuring Range |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 0.996 | -0.014 | 0.9961 | 4 – 12% HbA1c |
The linearity results support the sponsor's claims that the assay is linear across the reportable measuring range of 4 to 12% HbA1c.
c. Traceability, Stability, Expected values (controls, calibrators, or methods):
Traceability
The cobas HbA1c Test has been standardized against the approved IFCC reference method for the measurement of hemoglobin A1c in human blood. The cobas b 101 instrument reports values in % hemoglobin A1c traceable to DCCT/NGSP by calculation. The cobas b 101 is certified with the National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program (NGSP). The certification expires in one year. See NGSP website for current certification at http://www.ngsp.org.
Stability
The shelf life, out-of-pouch and disc warm up stability study protocols and acceptance criteria for the cobas b 101 HbA1c test system were reviewed and found to be acceptable to support the sponsor's following claims:
Shelf life 2-30 °C (36-86 °F) for 16 months
Out-of-pouch use disc within 20 minutes after the pouch is opened.
Disc warm up if the pouch is stored in a refrigerator, remove the pouch but do not open for at least 20 minutes.
d. Detection limit:
Please see linearity study above in M1b.
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# e. Analytical specificity:
# Endogenous Interference
The effect on quantitation of HbA1c in the presence of endogenous interfering substances was determined on the cobas b 101 system using the cobas HbA1c Test. The interference study was performed according to CLSI guideline EP07-A2. The sample pool material was $\mathrm{K}_2$ -EDTA venous whole blood with a concentration of $4.9-5.5\%$ HbA1c and $8.6-9.2\%$ HbA1c.
To achieve the target high concentration interferent pool (high sample pool); pooled whole blood was spiked with the interferent. Another pool (low sample pool), without interferent, was created by dilution of the pooled whole blood with the same volume of diluent as the high sample pool. This pool contains no interferent and serves as the reference pool for the testing. The high and low sample pools were mixed in different ratios to yield a dilution series with varying concentrations of the interferent. The sponsor defined non-significant interference as $< \pm 10\%$ deviation compared to the result of the reference pool. The table below summarizes the results and claims for the endogenous substances.
| Endogenous Substance | Highest Level Tested with no Significant Interference | Labeling Claim: no significant interference up to |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Conjugated Bilirubin | 85 mg/dL | 60 mg/dL |
| Unconjugated Bilirubin | 85 mg/dL | 60 mg/dL |
| Lipemia / Intralipid | 750 mg/dL | 500 mg/dL |
| Glucose | 2800 mg/dL | 2000 mg/dL |
| Rheumatoid Factor (RF) | 1200 IU/mL | 750 Iu/mL |
| Lipemia / NativeTriglyceride | 694 mg/dL | 500 mg/dL |
| Total Protein | 126 g/L | 120g/L |
| Albumin | 77.5g/L | 60g/L |
# Exogenous Interference
The effect on quantitation of HbA1c in the presence of exogenous interfering substances was determined on the cobas b 101 system with the cobas HbA1c Test. The interference study was performed according to CLSI guideline EP07-A2. For each substance, a separate stock solution containing the potentially interfering drug was prepared. All pools were prepared using $\mathrm{K}_2$ -EDTA venous whole blood with a concentration of $5.1 - 5.4\%$ HbA1c and $8.3 - 9.1\%$ HbA1c. To achieve the target concentration drug pool, pooled whole blood was spiked with the drug. Another pool, without drug, was created by dilution of the pooled whole blood with the same volume of diluent as the high concentration drug pool. This pool contains no drug and serves as the reference pool for the testing. Each sample was tested in 5 replicates and the mean value used for the assessment. No interference was found at therapeutic
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concentrations using common drug panels.
| Drug | Highest concentration tested with no significant interference |
| --- | --- |
| Acetyl Cysteine | 166 mg/dL |
| Ampicillin-Na | 100mg/dL |
| Ascorbic acid | 30 mg/dL |
| Cyclosporine | 0.5 mg/dL |
| Cefoxitin | 250mg/dL |
| Heparin | 5000 U/L |
| Levodopa | 2 mg/dL |
| Methyldopa +1,5 | 2 mg/dL |
| Metronidazole | 20 mg/dL |
| Phenylbutazone | 40 mg/dL |
| Doxycycline | 5 mg/dL |
| Acetylsalicylic acid | 100 mg/dL |
| Rifampicin | 6 mg/dL |
| Acetaminophen | 20 mg/dL |
| Ibuprofen | 50 mg/dL |
| Theophylline | 10 mg/dL |
## Cross-Reactivity
The effect on quantitation of HbA1c in the presence of potential cross-reactants was determined on the cobas b 101 system with the cobas HbA1c Test. The study was performed according to CLSI guideline EP07-A2. Sample pool material was $\mathrm{K}_2$ -EDTA venous whole blood with a concentration of $4.9 - 5.5\%$ HbA1c and $8.0 - 8.5\%$ HbA1c.
## Labile A1c interference:
To prepare the high sample pool, pooled whole blood was spiked with glucose. The low sample pool, without glucose, was created by dilution of the pooled whole blood with the same volume of diluent as the high sample pool. This pool contains no cross-reactant and serves as the reference pool for the testing. The high and low sample pools were mixed in different ratios to yield a 3 level dilution series with the following concentrations: 1000, 2000 and $3000\mathrm{mg / dL}$ . Each dilution level was tested in singlicate on three cobas b 101 instruments. The sponsor defined non-significant interference as $\leq \pm 10\%$ deviation compared to the result of the reference pool. The study supports the sponsor's claim of no labile A1c cross-reactivity found up to $3000\mathrm{mg / dL}$ .
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# Carbamylated hemoglobin interference:
To prepare the high sample pool, pooled whole blood was spiked with the cross-reactant Sodium Cyanate. The low sample pool, without Sodium Cyanate, was created by dilution of the pooled whole blood with the same volume of diluent as the high sample pool. This pool contains no cross-reactant and serves as the reference pool for the testing. The high and low sample pools were mixed in different ratios to yield a three level dilution series with the following concentrations: 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg/dL. Each dilution level was tested in singlicate on three cobas b 101 instruments. The sponsor defined non-significant interference as ≤ ± 10% deviation compared to the result of the reference pool. The results support the sponsor's claim no carbamylated hemoglobin cross-reactivity was found up to 3000 mg/dL.
# Acetylated hemoglobin interference:
To prepare the high sample pool, pooled whole blood was spiked with Acetylsalicylic Acid. The low sample pool, without Acetylsalicylic Acid, was created by dilution of the pooled whole blood with the same volume of diluent as the high sample pool. This pool contains no cross-reactant and serves as the reference pool for the testing. The high and low sample pools were mixed in different ratios to yield a three level dilution series with the following concentrations: 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg/dL. Each dilution level was tested in singlicate on three cobas b 101 instruments. The sponsor defined non-significant interference as ≤ ± 10% deviation compared to the result of the reference pool. The results support the sponsor's claim no acetylated hemoglobin cross-reactivity was found up to 3000 mg/dL.
# Hemoglobin variant interference
Hemoglobin variant testing was conducted to determine if there is any significant interference with the major hemoglobin variants and the cobas HbA1c Test.
The study was performed using a total of 130 whole blood samples (HbS n=20, HbC n=20, HbD n=20, HbE n=20, elevated HbF n=20, and elevated HbA2 n=10). Each sample was tested once in one run on one cobas b 101 instrument. Results obtained were compared to those obtained with a comparator method shown to be free of interference from the hemoglobin variant tested (Tina-quant HbA1c Gen.3 (k121610) on cobas 501 for HbS, HbC, HbD, HbE, and HbA2; Tosoh G8 (k071132) for HbF).
Mean relative bias against the comparator method was calculated separately for each variant type. The sponsor defines no significant interference as the % recovery as ≤ ±10% deviation from the comparator method at 6% and 9% HbA1c.
The labeling contains the following limitation: Heterozygous presence of the most common hemoglobin variants (HbS, HbC, HbD, HbE, and Hb2) does not interfere. Testing results indicate that there is no significant interference for HbS (≤41%), HbC (36%), HbD (42%), HbE (27%) and HbA2 (6.2%).
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Glycated HbF is not detected by the assay as it does not contain the glycated beta-chain that characterizes HbA1c. However, HbF is measured in the total Hb assay and as a consequence, specimens containing high amounts of HbF (> 10 %) may result in lower than expected % HbA1c values (DCCT/NGSP)
f. Assay cut-off:
Not applicable.
2. Comparison studies:
a. Method comparison with predicate device:
Method comparison of the cobas b 101 HbA1c assay was performed according to CLSI EP09-A3 at three POC sites. Capillary finger-stick whole blood and venous whole blood (K₂-EDTA and Li-Heparin) from prospective blood sampling (n=379) were measured on the cobas b 101 in singlicate and compared to matched venous K₂-EDTA whole blood measured on the Tosoh G8 HPLC Analyzer at a NGSP secondary reference laboratory. For capillary finger-stick whole blood, the range tested was 4.3-11.6 % HbA1c. For K₂-EDTA venous whole blood, the range tested was 4.4-12.9% HbA1c. For lithium heparin whole blood, the range tested was 4.3-11.6 % HbA1c. Each site utilized three cobas b 101 instruments with four study operators at each site. Each site received a different lot of the cobas b 101 HbA1c reagent disc. Passing-Bablok regression analysis results in NGSP units (%HbA1c) are listed in the tables below.
Capillary Fingerstick
| Site | N | Regression Line | Pearson’s r |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 125 | y = 1.00x – 0.10 | 0.99 |
| 2 | 133 | y = 1.00x – 0.10 | 0.99 |
| 3 | 121 | y = 1.00x – 0.20 | 0.99 |
K₂-EDTA
| Site | N | Regression Line | Pearson’s r |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 125 | y = 1.00x – 0.20 | 0.99 |
| 2 | 133 | y = 1.00x – 0.20 | 0.99 |
| 3 | 121 | y = 0.97x – 0.04 | 0.99 |
Lithium Heparin
| Site | N | Regression Line | Pearson’s r |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 125 | y = 1.00x – 0.20 | 0.99 |
| 2 | 130 | y = 1.00x – 0.20 | 0.99 |
| 3 | 117 | y = 1.00x – 0.20 | 0.99 |
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b. Matrix comparison:
A matrix study was performed using 91 matched K2-EDTA venous whole blood (reference) and $\mathrm{K}_3$ -EDTA venous whole blood samples ranging from 4.3 to $11.8\%$ HbA1c. Samples were collected and tested in singlicate with one reagent lot on the cobas b 101 system. No samples were contrived. The Passing Bablok regression results are shown in the table below:
NGSP units (%HbA1c):
| N | Regression Line | Pearson's r |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 91 | y = 1.03x – 0.00 | 0.99 |
Capillary finger-stick whole blood, venous whole blood, collected in EDTA ( $\mathrm{K}_2$ or $\mathrm{K}_3$ ) and lithium heparin have been shown to be acceptable for use with the cobas b 101 system.
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:
The sponsor states the following in the labeling:
In 2016, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommended a reasonable A1c goal for many non-pregnant adults is $< 7\%$ (53 mmol/mol). Providers might reasonably suggest more stringent A1C goals (such as $6.5\%$ [48 mmol/mol]) for selected individual patients if this can be achieved without significant hypoglycemia or other adverse effects of treatment. Appropriate patients might include those with short duration of diabetes, type 2 diabetes treated with lifestyle or metformin only, long life expectancy, or no significant cardiovascular disease. Less stringent A1C goals (such as $8\%$ [64 mmol/mol]) may be appropriate for patients with a history of severe hypoglycemia, limited life expectancy, advanced microvascular or macrovascular complications,
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extensive comorbid conditions, or longstanding diabetes in whom the general goal is difficult to attain despite diabetes self-management education, appropriate glucose monitoring, and effective doses of multiple glucose-lowering agents including insulin.
Reference:
American Diabetes Association. Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2016. Diabetes Care. 2016 Jan; 39 Suppl. 1: S1-S112.
## N. Instrument Name:
cobas b 101 system
## O. System Descriptions:
1. Modes of Operation:
Does the applicant’s device contain the ability to transmit data to a computer, webserver, or mobile device?
Yes ☐ X or No ☐
Does the applicant’s device transmit data to a computer, webserver, or mobile device using wireless transmission?
Yes ☐ or No ☐ X
2. Software:
FDA has reviewed applicant’s Hazard Analysis and software development processes for this line of product types:
Yes ☐ X or No ☐
3. Specimen Identification:
A barcode reader or keyboard may be used to enter patient information. Results are displayed on the screen and can be printed out by using an optional external printer.
4. Specimen Sampling and Handling:
Sample is applied directly from the fingerstick or via a pipette when testing venous whole blood. The operator applies sample to the disc and places the disc in the instrument. There are no pre-analytics needed as the disc is self-filling by capillary forces.
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5. Calibration:
Calibration information is contained on each disc and is specific to each lot of reagent. The instrument automatically reads in the lot-specific calibration data from the barcode information printed on the cobas HbA1c Test disc. There is no calibration needed by the user. The calibration is traceable to the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry (IFCC) and the device is certified with the NGSP standardization program.
6. Quality Control:
Two levels of controls are provided which are below and above the respective thresholds. Controls are used to check the system performance. The controls are liquid ready to use and include a dropper for easy application of the control liquid to the disc. The HbA1c control is a whole blood based matrix. Target ranges will be assigned per each control lot and checked with each disc lot. The mean value shall meet a defined target range to reflect a normal or pathologic value respectively based on cut-off points which are recommended e.g. by American Diabetes Association (ADA).
P. Other Supportive Instrument Performance Characteristics Data Not Covered In The "Performance Characteristics" Section above:
Postmarket information for this device and device type was considered during the review of this submission.
Q. Proposed Labeling:
The labeling is sufficient and it satisfies the requirements of 21 CFR Part 809.10.
R. 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.