What is a DBS Test Kit?

A dried blood spot (DBS) test kit is a convenient method to obtain small blood samples. These blood samples are dropped onto a filter paper card, left to dry, and then sent to a lab to be tested. These testing kits can be used to test blood for many genetic and non-genetic diseases but are frequently used to test for biomarkers such as diabetes, vitamins and other health aspects of an individual. In this blog post, we will outline what a DBS test kit is and what applications it is used in.

DBS Test Kit

DBS kits are used to simplify diagnostic medicine and improve the quality of healthcare by making blood samples easy to carry out. The DBS testing kits can be used in the comfort of the patient’s home and quickly sent to a designated laboratory. 

A small blood volume is collected by pricking a fingertip with the enclosed sample prick and dripping blood onto the sample collection card. These sample cards can be sent via post or mail delivery services and do not require trips to hospitals or other medical centres.

The components of the dried blood spot sampling kit will include the DBS card, a disinfectant wipe, a lancet (to carry out the finger prick), instructions and packaging to store and post the blood sample.

DBS Test Kit Applications

Blood sampling is used in various medical applications to test for diseases, infections, immune system responses and general health. For general health testing, a number of analytes can be measured using DBS kits.

  • Amino acids
  • Antioxidants
  • DNA: To test for hepatitis B, HIV-1 and other viruses
  • Fatty Acids
  • Specific antibodies (dengue virus, yellow fever virus and others)
  • Vitamins (A, B, D, E, K)

It can also be used for testing cholesterol, fertility hormones, testosterone and other biomarkers that will help you gain a deeper understanding of your body and health. 

Advantages of a DBS Test Kit

Typically, people give liquid blood in a medical setting, such as a hospital or medical centre, which can take time and money for some people. However, the DBS test kits are making the process faster and smarter, saving people from the hassle of attending a hospital and removing their travel costs and time.

Aside from the above-mentioned advantages, there are several other benefits of using a DBS test kit.

  • Centrifugation not required
  • Minimal amount of blood needed
  • Non invasive
  • Prompt test results
  • Quick and safe procedure

DBS Test Kits at RDA Spot

RDA Spot produces high-quality dried blood spot testing kits, certified, and CE IVD marked. One of the most significant benefits of our sampling kits is that they can be used at any time and anywhere, making the blood sampling process quick and easy. However, we also provide customization options for our clients that range from the DBS card colours and company logo to translated instructions.

If you want more details about our DBS collection kits or their applications, please don’t hesitate to contact us.