BMD launches FIDIS[TM], a unique high-throughput diagnostics system
BMD unveils powerful diagnostics acceleration tool for autoimmune diseases at Medica 2002, Dusseldorf

Marne-la-Vallée (France), December 2, 2002 - BMD, European specialist in advanced diagnostics, announces today the availability of FIDIS[TM], a novel solution that enables multiple autoimmune diagnostics tests to be carried out simultaneously and at high speed. With FIDIS, analysis results that previously took several days can now be obtained within hours.

The exceptional characteristics of FIDIS provide an ideal solution to the increasing complexity of autoimmune disease diagnostics and allow doctors to make rapid decisions, even when on the move and away from consulting rooms. FIDIS covers 90% of laboratory needs in the field of auto-immunity, according to BMD, which aims to make FIDIS a reference tool in laboratory instrumentation. BMD is also engaged in R&D activities in order to offer comparable diagnostics solutions for allergy testing, as well as testing for some infectious and genetic diseases.

This first version of FIDIS is designed for autoimmune disease diagnostics. Shown for the first time at Medica 2002 in Dusseldorf, it is available in four different forms that can be selected depending on the user's particular need.

* FIDIS Connective (9 tests)
* FIDIS Celiac (3 tests)
* FIDIS Thyroid (2 tests)
* FIDIS Rheumatoid (2 tests)

Two further kits will soon be available from BMD: FIDIS Thrombosis and FIDIS Vasculitis.

This means that, for example, using FIDIS Connective, it will be possible to simultaneously submit up to 96 samples to the nine tests. Following a one-hour incubation period, the 864 results will be legible within half an hour using flow cytometry.

One of FIDIS' more remarkable features is its ability to handle simultaneous submission up to 96 samples to the 16 tests possible with the four available kits in a random access mode.

"FIDIS means we can offer a totally new product that we firmly believe will become a tool of reference in the laboratory and diagnostics instrumentation market," said Daniel Pierron, CEO of BMD. "FIDIS transforms traditional organizational concepts in laboratories by radically simplifying and accelerating processes. The announcement of FIDIS confirms BMD's position as a technology leader in the European market and stakes its claim to be one of the key players in the international arena."

FIDIS combines flexibility and simplicity through standards developed by BMD (Universal Protocol[TM], Universal Calibrator[TM]) and adapted to all sizes of laboratory in the international market. Distribution in Europe, North Africa and Asia will begin in January 2003 with North America soon afterwards. The product is already attracting interest from well-known names in the diagnostics field, says the company.

BMD designed FIDIS around Luminex's xMAP[TM] system under various licensing agreements. xMAP uses a flow cytometer and microspheres pigmented by two fluorophores. BMD's know-how in developing reagent systems suited to this approach was a key factor in designing a simultaneous analysis system using a single blood sample.

FIDIS, Universal Protocol, Universal Calibrator are trademarks of BMD
xMAP is a trademark of Luminex.

About BMD:
BMD (Biomedical Diagnostics) develops and markets advanced biological diagnostic tools for the medical professions. The company boasts a unique combination of experience, knowledge and understanding of the biological diagnostics field. Founded in 1986, the company initially concentrated on building a profitable product distribution business. Increasing knowledge and understanding of the market led the company to establish research and development activities of its own, and today BMD offers its own products to the medical sector. BMD now holds a leading position in the diagnostics market, offering a wide range of solutions in the fields of autoimmune diseases, allergies, and infectious diseases. BMD also offers immunochemical tests for diagnosing heart failure and other coronary problems. As well as the development of its own products, BMD is involved in the manufacture of products for other international distributors. BMD owns three European subsidiaries in Germany, Italy and Spain and a network of fifteen distributors across Europe, in North Africa and in Asia.

For further information:
Keren Perrott, Andrew Lloyd & Associates Ltd
+44 1273 675100
keren@ala.com

Andrew Lloyd, Andrew Lloyd & Associates Ltd
+44 1273 675100
allo@ala.com  

-- 
Keren Perrott

ANDREW LLOYD & ASSOCIATES

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Tel: +44-1273 675100
Fax: +44-1273 675400

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email:
keren@ala.com  
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