The study will enroll 160 prospective ICU patients, including adults and children, treated for Gram-negative bacteraemia at four major Italian hospitals. The study aims to investigate the impact of using ASTar on time to optimal therapy, ICU and hospital length of stay, duration, and cost of antibiotic therapy. It is expected to last approximately one year.
 
“The Lifetimes study is an important milestone in Q-linea’s clinical strategy. ASTar is expected to improve quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), enhance antimicrobial stewardship programs, reduce hospital costs, and streamline laboratory workflow", said Tiziana Di Martino, CMO of Q-linea. 
 
“We are thrilled to announce the start of the first health economic study sponsored by Q-linea. By proving the impact of ASTar utilisation on patient outcomes and healthcare-associated costs, we are convinced ASTar implementation rate will increase saving more lives in the future", said Jonas Jarvius, CEO of Q-linea.

About ASTar Instruments and ASTar BC G-Kit  
ASTar Instrument and ASTar BC G-Kit already deliver the broadest answer regarding the combination of the number of antibiotics and the number of double dilution steps of each antibiotic, in a single analysis for gram-negative bacteria. The test enables the analysis of gram-negative bacteria, including difficult-to-grow so-called fastidious bacteria, which satisfies the need for rapid and comprehensive results to support optimal treatment decisions.  
 
ASTar Instrument and ASTar BC G- Kit are CE-marked but not FDA 510(k)-cleared and not available for sale in the United States.