First genetic test for Avellino corneal dystrophy launched in the U.S.

Avellino Lab USA announced the launch of its Avellino-GENE Detection System (AGDS) Test for Avellino corneal dystrophy (ACD) in the United States. The company is the first to create a genetic test for ACD, also known as granular corneal dystrophy type II.

The company is positioning the test as a benefit for LASIK patients, since carriers of ACD are at an extreme risk of experiencing eventual blindness should they undergo vision correction surgery, such as LASIK, LASEK or PRK.

"Since 2008, more than 330,000 individuals have been tested with the AGDS Test outside the U.S., as the standard of care in Korea and Japan, identifying 301 people as positive for the genetic mutation that causes ACD, protecting them from blindness," said Scott Korney, chief operating officer of the company. "By providing the AGDS Test to the ophthalmologist community here in the U.S., Avellino Lab USA is proud to help make eye correction surgery safer for the over 350,000 U.S. patients who undergo LASIK each year."

The noninvasive test involves a mouth swab from the patient's cheek. The sample is sent to Avellino Lab and within 24 to 48 hours, the results are provided to the ophthalmologist with 100 percent accuracy, according to the company.