Revolutionary syndromic molecular testing platform delivers faster, more accurate results to enhance patient outcomes and clinical decision-making
In a landmark step toward advancing infectious disease diagnostics, Asiri Laboratories has introduced the BioFire® FilmArray® System — a cutting-edge multiplex PCR platform that transforms pathogen detection with unmatched speed, accuracy, and confidence.
This breakthrough marks a significant leap in Sri Lanka’s diagnostic capability, empowering clinicians with rapid syndromic testing that enables simultaneous detection of 20 – 30+ pathogens within 45–60 minutes, compared to days with conventional methods.
In modern clinical practice, timely and precise diagnosis is critical for managing infectious diseases and controlling outbreaks. The BioFire® FilmArray® system directly addresses these challenges through syndromic molecular testing, identifying causative pathogens and antimicrobial resistance markers in a single, fully automated process.
The current diagnostic panels include pneumonia, meningitis/encephalitis and blood culture identification.
With minimal hands-on time and seamless automation, the platform enables clinicians to rapidly initiate targeted therapies, optimize patient management, and reduce hospital stays — ultimately improving outcomes and efficiency across the healthcare continuum.
Powered by nested multiplex PCR technology, the BioFire® FilmArray® provides superior sensitivity and specificity, even detecting polymicrobial infections often missed by conventional culture methods.
Key advantages include results in approximately 1 hour from sample to answer, simultaneous detection of bacteria, viruses, yeasts, and resistance genes, a closed contamination-free testing process, approximately 2 minutes of hands-on time, value in critical and emergency care environments, and support for better antimicrobial stewardship through informed therapy decisions.
Integrated into Asiri Laboratories’ digital and automated workflow, this innovation reinforces its ongoing commitment to world-class diagnostics aligned with global standards.
Mr. Neil Priyath John, Director – Laboratories at Asiri Health, “The BioFire® FilmArray® revolutionizes our infectious disease diagnostic capabilities and It enables faster and more precise results especially within critical and emergency care settings giving clinicians the insights they need when
every minute counts.”
He further added: “As the pioneer in Sri Lanka’s private diagnostics sector for over 40 years, Asiri Laboratories remains committed to adopting the latest global advancements. The introduction of the BioFire® FilmArray® sets a new national benchmark in rapid molecular testing.”
Dr. Sujatha Pathirage, Consultant Microbiologist, The BioFire® FilmArray®, the first of its kind in Sri Lanka, “it is an automated PCR-based diagnostic system capable of detecting multiple targets simultaneously. These targets include bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens, as well as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes. This enables comprehensive testing for all probable pathogens associated with specific clinical syndromes for example, respiratory infections, bloodstream infections, meningitis/encephalitis, and gastroenteritis.”
Its rapid, simple, and comprehensive syndromic testing approach provides laboratory results within a clinically meaningful timeframe, allowing clinicians to make precise and timely decisions.
Furthermore, the ability to detect multiple antimicrobial resistance genes supports the early selection of the most appropriate antibiotic therapy, ensuring optimal patient care and reducing the duration of
hospital stay.
Ms. Mihiri Cabandugama, Director – Strategic Planning & Business Development at Asiri Health, Emphasized that the adoption of BioFire® aligns with Asiri’s continued long-term strategy of integrating world-class technology to elevate diagnostic excellence. She noted that this advancement further solidifies Asiri Health’s position and commitment as Sri Lanka’s leader in innovative, patient centered healthcare solutions.
By enabling rapid detection of high-risk pathogens — including those causing meningitis and severe respiratory infections — the BioFire® FilmArray® enhances patient safety, infection control, and outbreak preparedness.
Its rollout across the Asiri Laboratories network ensures nationwide access to world-class rapid molecular diagnostics, empowering clinicians to make informed treatment decisions that improve patient outcomes and curb antimicrobial resistance.
“We at Analytical Instruments Pvt. Ltd. are proud to partner with Asiri Laboratories in bringing the globally acclaimed BioFire® FilmArray® platform to Sri Lanka,” said Mr. S. Balamurugan, National Sales Manager. “This collaboration underscores our shared mission to deliver cutting-edge technologies that elevate the standard of diagnostic care across the nation.”
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About Asiri Laboratories
Asiri Laboratories, part of Asiri Health under the Softlogic Holdings Group, is Sri Lanka’s leading private diagnostic service provider with over four decades of trusted expertise. Renowned for technological leadership and quality excellence, Asiri Laboratories operates an island-wide network of 116 laboratories across Sri Lanka, ensuring enhanced accessibility and greater convenience for patients.
The network offers advanced pathology, microbiology, and molecular diagnostic services that meet international standards of accuracy, reliability, and efficiency upholding Asiri Laboratories’ position as the country’s most trusted partner in diagnostic care.
About Analytical Instruments Pvt. Ltd.
Analytical Instruments Pvt. Ltd. is a leading provider of cutting-edge scientific and diagnostic solutions in Sri Lanka. Representing globally reputed brands, the company is committed to enabling advancements in healthcare, research, and industrial testing through world-class instrumentation, comprehensive training, and technical support backed by over 37 years of experience.