POC-CCA3
POC-CCA3 is a next-generation, urine-based rapid diagnostic test designed to detect S. mansoni infections. Built on earlier circulating cathodic antigen (CCA) diagnostics, it is intended for use at the point-of-care to enable fast and practical detection, supporting timely treatment decisions and disease monitoring in endemic settings.
For research use only. Contact us for availability and ordering information.
What is POC-CCA3?
POC-CCA3 is point-of-care (POC) lateral flow rapid diagnostic test (RTD) that detects circulating cathodic antigen (CCA) from Schistosoma mansoni in urine samples. Lateral flow assays are simple and fast diagnostic tools widely used in applications such as pregnancy and COVID-19 tests, where a visible line indicates the presence of a target substance.
The POC-CCA3 test delivers results in approximately 20 minutes and is designed for field use, requiring no laboratory technician. Test results are interpreted by comparing the intensity of the test line to a standardized G-score reference card, providing an indication of infection intensity.
Key characteristics
• Fast - Point-of-care (POC) lateral flow rapid diagnostic test
• Results – in 20 minutes
• Designed – for the field, no lab technician required
• Easy sample collection – Detects CCA in urine
POC-CCA vs. POC-CCA3
POC-CCA3 is an enhanced version of the urine-based POC-CCA rapid diagnostic test, recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an alternative to the Kato-Katz method in S. mansoni endemic areas. Key improvements include rigorous manufacturing quality and quality control, minimal batch-to-batch variability, and the use of recombinant antibodies. The test also includes a standard G-score reference card and an exact-volume pipette to ensure precise and consistent urine sampling. In addition, a smartphone application for test reading and result interpretation is currently under development with a partner.
Key improvements include:
1. Rigorous manufacturing quality and QC
2. Standard inclusion of G-score reference card
3. Minimal batch-to-batch variability
4. Smartphone app for test readout under developmentwith partner
Recommended Use Cases
POC-CCA3 can support research and program activities aimed at improving the detection and monitoring of S. mansoni infections.
Prevalence Monitoring
POC-CCA3 recommended as alternative or complementary approach to Kato-Katz.
Impact Assessments
POC-CCA3 enables monitoring of progress towards elimination as a public health problem by providing insight in prevalence and intensity.
Test and Treat Programs
In low prevalence settings POC-CCA3 could facilitate transition to Test & Treat, and assist country programs in the road towards elimination.
Sub-District Surveying
POC-CCA3 supports precision mapping, by helping country programs identify hotspots andguide targeted interventions.
Scientific Development and Validation
The current version of the POC-CCA3 test has been developed through a collaboration between Mondial Diagnostics and Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC).
Studies conducted in endemic settings have assessed the performance of POC-CCA3 compared with other diagnostic methods, including earlier CCA tests and traditional stool microscopy techniques such as Kato-Katz.
Key results from Lamberton et al. (2023) comparative study
• Improved batch-to-batch consistency
• Comparable performance in field settings
• Higher prevalence estimates compared to Kato-Katz diagnostics, particularly in moderate-endemic settings
What is Schistosomiasis?
Schistosomiasis (also known as bilharzia) is a parasitic disease caused by Schistosoma worms and transmitted through contact with contaminated freshwater. The parasite develops in freshwater snails, which release larvae that can penetrate human skin. Once inside the body, the worms mature and produce eggs, continuing the transmission cycle when these are excreted into water sources.
The disease affects approximately 200–250 million people worldwide, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions, with the highest burden in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is closely linked to limited access to clean water and sanitation and remains a significant public health challenge. If left untreated, schistosomiasis can lead to chronic illness, organ damage, impaired development in children, and reduced quality of life.
Want to Order or Learn More?
POC-CCA3 is currently available for research use only. If you are interested in learning more or placing an order, please get in touch with our team.
