The Cepheid® Xpert® MRSA/SA Blood Culture test, performed on the GeneXpert® Instrument Systems, is a qualitative in vitro diagnostic test intended for the detection of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) DNA directly from positive blood cultures. The assay utilizes automated real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the amplification of MRSA/SA specific DNA targets and fluorogenic target-specific hybridization probes for the real-time detection of the amplified DNA. The assay is performed directly on positive blood culture samples using BD BACTECTM Plus Aerobic/F, BacT/ALERT® SA (Standard Aerobic) or VersaTREK REDOX 1® (aerobic) blood culture bottles that are determined as Gram Positive Cocci in Clusters (GPCC) or as Gram Positive Cocci in singles (GPC) by Gram stain. The Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture test is indicated for use in conjunction with other laboratory tests, such as culture, and clinical data available to the clinician as an aid in the detection of MRSA/SA from positive blood cultures. Subculturing of positive blood cultures is necessary to recover organisms for susceptibility testing or for epidemiological typing. The Cepheid Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture test is not intended to monitor treatment for MRSA/SA infections.
Device Story
Device performs rapid, automated qualitative detection of MRSA and SA DNA from positive blood culture bottles; utilizes real-time PCR; targets spa, mecA, and SCCmec genes. Sample preparation, amplification, and detection integrated within single-use disposable fluidic cartridge; processed on GeneXpert Instrument Systems (Dx, Infinity-48s, Infinity-80). Workflow: aliquot of positive blood culture transferred to elution reagent, then to cartridge; instrument automates cell lysis via ultrasonic horn, fluid movement via syringe drive, and thermocycling via I-CORE module. Results provided in ~60 minutes. Used in clinical laboratories; operated by trained personnel. Output aids clinicians in rapid identification of MRSA/SA, facilitating timely clinical decision-making and patient management. Benefits include faster detection compared to traditional culture methods.
Clinical Evidence
No new clinical trials conducted. Substantial equivalence supported by re-analysis of original clinical performance data and a subset of original analytical performance data (LoD, inclusivity, exclusivity, potential interfering substances, reproducibility, and precision) to validate the updated Assay Definition File and software.
Technological Characteristics
Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) using real-time PCR. Disposable, multi-chambered fluidic cartridges. Internal controls: Sample Processing Control (SPC) and Probe Check Control (PCC). Targets: spa, mecA, and SCCmec genes. Automated cell lysis (ultrasonic) and thermocycling (I-CORE). Software-based rules-based algorithms for result interpretation. Connectivity via GeneXpert Instrument Systems (Dx, Infinity-48s, Infinity-80).
Indications for Use
Indicated for detection of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) DNA in positive blood culture samples (GPCC or GPC) to aid in diagnosis. Not for monitoring treatment.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An antimicrobial susceptibility test powder is a device that consists of an antimicrobial drug powder packaged in vials in specified amounts and intended for use in clinical laboratories for determining in vitro susceptibility of bacterial pathogens to these therapeutic agents. Test results are used to determine the antimicrobial agent of choice in the treatment of bacterial diseases.
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Food and Drug Administration
10903 New Hampshire Avenue
Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002
www.fda.gov
# SPECIAL 510(k) SUBSTANTIAL EQUIVALENCE DETERMINATION DECISION SUMMARY
## I Background Information:
A 510(k) Number
K190771
B Applicant
Cepheid
C Proprietary and Established Names
Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture, GeneXpert Dx System, GeneXpert Infinity-48s System, GeneXpert Infinity-80 System
D Regulatory Information
| Product Code(s) | Classification | Regulation Section | Panel |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| NQX | Class II | 21 CFR 866.1640 - Antimicrobial Susceptibility Test Powder | IM - Immunology & MI - Microbiology |
| OOI | Class II | 21 CFR 862.2570 - Instrumentation for clinical multiplex test systems | CH - Clinical Chemistry |
## II Review Summary:
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:
Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture Assay
510(k) number: K130894
K190771 - Page 1 of 6
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2. Submitter's statement that the INDICATIONS FOR USE/INTENDED USE of the modified device as described in its labeling HAS CHANGED along with the proposed labeling which includes instructions for use, package labeling, and, if available, advertisements or promotional materials (labeling changes are permitted as long as they do not affect the intended use).
This change was for the device name changed from "Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture Assay" to "Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture".
3. A description of the device MODIFICATION(S), including clearly labeled diagrams, engineering drawings, photographs, user's and/or service manuals in sufficient detail to demonstrate that the FUNDAMENTAL SCIENTIFIC TECHNOLOGY of the modified device has not changed.
This change was for the incorporation of enhanced algorithms (rules-based) into the Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture assay definition file (ADF) for determining SA positive, MRSA positive, SA negative and MRSA negative test results. This change is a post-PCR rules-based analysis. The minimum software requirement of the GeneXpert Dx software version 5.3, on which the updated ADF is locked and the rules-based, post-PCR analysis settings are supported and compatible with Infinity software version 6.8 and higher.
The Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture Package Insert was updated to revise the Results and Interpretations table to reflect the revisions to assay test results reporting and to update the minimum software requirement to GeneXpert Dx software version 5.3 or GeneXpert Infinity Xpertise 6.8.
The Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture Package Insert was updated to include performance characteristics with a summary of re-analyses of original data with newly released updated software modifications.
4. Comparison Information (i.e., similarities and differences) to the submitter's legally marketed predicate device including, labeling, intended use, and physical characteristics.
| Device & Predicate Device(s): | Device: Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture (K190771) | Predicate: Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture Assay (K130894) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Similarities | | |
| Intended Use/Indications For Use | The Cepheid Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture test, performed on the GeneXpert Instrument Systems, is a qualitative in vitro diagnostic test intended for the detection of Staphylococcus aureus (SA) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) DNA directly from positive blood cultures. The assay utilizes automated real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the amplification of MRSA/SA | Same |
K190771 - Page 2 of 6
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K190771 - Page 3 of 6
| | specific DNA targets and
fluorogenic target-specific
hybridization probes for the real-
time detection of the amplified
DNA. The assay is performed
directly on positive blood culture
samples using BD BACTEC Plus
Aerobic/F, BacT/ALERT SA
(Standard Aerobic) or VersaTREK
REDOX 1 (aerobic) blood culture
bottles that are determined as Gram
Positive Cocci in Clusters (GPCC)
or as Gram Positive Cocci in singles
(GPC) by Gram stain. The Xpert
MRSA/SA Blood Culture test is
indicated for use in conjunction with
other laboratory tests, such as
culture, and clinical data available to
the clinician as an aid in the
detection of MRSA/SA from
positive blood cultures. Subculturing
of positive blood cultures is
necessary to recover organisms for
susceptibility testing or for
epidemiological typing. The
Cepheid Xpert MRSA/SA Blood
Culture test is not intended to
monitor treatment for MRSA/SA
infections. | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Specimen Type | Positive Blood Culture | Same |
| Technological Principles | Fully automated nucleic acid
amplification (DNA); real-time PCR | Same |
| Test Cartridge | Disposable single-use, multi-
chambered fluidic cartridge | Same |
| Sample Preparation | Self-contained and automated after
mixed specimen is added to
cartridge. All other reagents are
contained in the cartridge | Same |
| Probes | TaqMan Probes | Same |
| Internal Controls | Sample processing (SPC) and probe
check control (PCC) | Same |
| DNA Target Sequence | Sequence incorporating the insertion
site (attB) of
Staphylococcal Cassette
Chromosome mec (SCCmec) for
detection of MRSA. | Same |
| DNA Target Sequence | Sequence specific to
methicillin/oxacillin resistance
(mecA gene) | Same |
| DNA Target Sequence | Sequence specific to Staphylococcus | Same |
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| | aureus species (spa gene) | |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Ability to identify correctly “Empty Cassette Variants” | Yes, sequence specific to Staphylococcus aureus species (mecA gene) | Same |
| Time to Result | Approximately 60 minutes to result | Same |
| Device & Predicate Device(s): | Device: Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture (K190771) | Predicate: Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture Assay (K130894) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Differences | | |
| Trade Name | Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture | Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture Assay |
| Instrument System | Cepheid GeneXpert Dx Systems and GeneXpert Infinity-48s and Infinity-80 Systems | Cepheid GeneXpert Dx Systems, GeneXpert Infinity-48 System, and GeneXpert Infinity-48s and Infinity-80 Systems |
| Minimum software requirements | GeneXpert Dx software version 5.3 and higher, GeneXpert Infinity-48s and Infinity-80 Xpertise software version 6.8 and Higher | GeneXpert Dx software version 4.3 and higher, GeneXpert Infinity-48 Xpertise 4.3 and higher, GeneXpert Infinity-48s and Infinity-80 Xpertise software version 6.0 and higher |
| Assay Definition File | Rules-based algorithms incorporating delta Ct values between targets within a valid Ct range and algorithms based on the Ct value for the targets falling within a valid Ct range | Algorithms based on the Ct value for the targets falling within a valid Ct range |
# 5. A Design Control Activities Summary 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.
A formal risk assessment was conducted for the Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture test and the GeneXpert Instrument Systems. This assessment included safety Failure Mode Effects and Analyses (sFMEA) and Device Hazard Analysis (DHA) with the updated ADF and software modifications. False negative results i.e., true MRSA not identified as MRSA, were considered the worst case hazard effects to the patient. It was concluded that based on the Risk Management Reviews, discussions, sFMEA and the mitigation
K190771 - Page 4 of 6
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actions taken, the risks identified are acceptable and Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture is safe and effective for its intended use.
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.
To confirm assay performance was not negatively impacted by the incorporation of the new software algorithms (and corresponding changes to the ADF) for determining SA positive, MRSA positive, SA negative and MRSA negative test results, Cepheid performed the following re-analysis of original raw data:
- LoD
- No new test runs were performed. Data acquired for MRSA and MSSA during the original LoD study were retrieved and reanalyzed using the updated ADF.
- Testing showed that the LoD estimates were not affected.
- Inclusivity
- No new test runs were performed. Data acquired during the original Inclusivity study were retrieved and reanalyzed using the updated ADF.
- Testing showed that all isolates were correctly reported, and the acceptance criteria were met.
- Exclusivity
- No new test runs were performed. Data acquired during the original Exclusivity study were retrieved and reanalyzed using the updated ADF.
- Testing showed that none of the non-Staphylococcus aureus isolates were detected and the acceptance criteria were met.
- Potentially Interfering Substances
- No new test runs were performed. Data acquired during the original Potentially Interfering Substances study were retrieved and reanalyzed using the updated ADF.
- Testing showed no substantial changes to the Ct values from the original report except for two tests with triglycerides and bilirubin that changed from correct test results (MRSA NEGATIVE; SA POSITIVE) to incorrect test results (MRSA POSITIVE; SA POSITIVE) attributed to a contaminant introduced during the original testing as mecA contamination was also observed in a MSSA negative control.
- Precision
- No new test runs were performed. Data acquired during the original Precision study were retrieved and reanalyzed using the updated ADF.
- Testing showed 95.2% of the results were identical. The majority of the exceptions were high negative samples that changed from MRSA NEGATIVE to MRSA POSITIVE due to the original ADF requiring three targets to be positive MRSA call, and the updated ADF requiring two of the three targets to be positive for a positive MRSA call.
- Reproducibility
- No new test results were performed. Data acquired during the original Reproducibility study were retrieved and reanalyzed using the updated ADF.
- Testing showed 97.5% of the results were identical. The majority of the exceptions were high negative samples that changed from MRSA NEGATIVE to MRSA POSITIVE due to the original ADF requiring three
K190771 - Page 5 of 6
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targets to be positive MRSA call, and the updated ADF requiring two of the three targets to be positive for a positive MRSA call.
- Clinical Performance
- No new tests were performed. Data acquired during the original Clinical Performance study were retrieved and reanalyzed using the updated ADF.
- Testing showed similar performance and acceptance criteria were met. See Table 1 below for comparison between the original and updated analyses.
Table 1. Xpert MRSA/SA Blood Culture Performance Comparison
| Target | Original | | Updated | |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| | PPA (n/N, 95% CI) | NPA (n/N, 95% CI) | PPA (n/N, 95% CI) | NPA (n/N, 95% CI) |
| MRSA | 98.1% (103/105, 93.3-99.8) | 99.6% (684/687, 98.7-99.9) | 99.0% (104/105, 94.8-100.0) | 99.0% (680/687, 97.9-99.5) |
| SA | 99.6% (235/236, 97.7-99.9) | 99.5% (553/556, 98.4-99.9) | 100.0% (236/236, 98.4-100.0) | 99.3% (552/556, 98.2-99.8) |
The firm provided a summary of the results from the verification and validation studies. The results demonstrated that requirements were met and any test failures have been reviewed and determined to be due to software defects that can be prevented or corrected if they are encountered.
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 (or their preamendment) device.
K190771 - Page 6 of 6
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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.