PLUS Diagnostics First National Laboratory to Offer Highly Specialized Gastrointestinal Tests

LAKEWOOD, N.J., June 1 /PRNewswire/ -- PLUS Diagnostics, a leading U.S. anatomic pathology company offering a full range of multi-specialty services, announced today that it is the first national laboratory to offer a highly specialized test that definitively diagnoses the rare gastrointestinal stromal tumor ("GIST"). Known as the K9 clone DOG-1 immunohistochemical assay, the new test is expected to identify up to 15 percent more people who suffer from the tumor than current tests.

PLUS Diagnostics also announced that it is the first U.S. laboratory to beta test an H. pylori monoclonal antibody test that detects H. pylori infection. Afflicting as many as 30 percent of Americans, H. pylori can be difficult to distinguish from other bacteria in routine staining assays. The infection, which is commonly caused by ingesting contaminated water or food, can cause peptic ulcer disease and gastric malignancy when left untreated. PLUS Diagnostics' new test is expected to reduce the number of false positive H. pylori cases.

"These tests are at the forefront of science and innovation, and support our goal of providing our customers with leading diagnostic services that enable them to offer their patients the highest quality of care," said Doug Berg, chief executive officer, PLUS Diagnostics. "We will continue to identify and invest in the newest tests and technologies that are uniquely tailored to supporting doctors and specialists with diagnosing a range of cancers and disorders."

Dr. Ali Riba, associate medical director for PLUS Diagnostics, added: "It is exciting to be part of a laboratory that is significantly investing in gastrointestinal services. We have the potential to help doctors save lives by definitively diagnosing the rare GIST tumor when traditional tests are not able to do so. Similarly, our beta test for H. pylori is expected to improve the accuracy of today's immunohistochemical tests, so doctors can immediately determine whether their patients require treatment."

PLUS Diagnostics has expanded its services since the company partnered with Water Street Healthcare Partners, a leading private equity firm focused exclusively on health care. It recently opened a West Coast laboratory and announced plans to expand into diagnostics services for hematology/oncology, in addition to the gastroenterology and urology specialties it serves today.

About PLUS Diagnostics

PLUS Diagnostics is a leading national anatomic pathology company that provides a full range of multi-specialty services, including extensive diagnostic procedures and specialist consultations. Accredited by the College of American Pathologists, PLUS Diagnostics has long been recognized for exceptional service and quality. The company currently focuses on a broad base of specialty pathology services, including urology and gastroenterology with plans to expand into hematopathology this year. For more information, visit, www.plusdx.com.