Arkstone Updates ArkScore System to Provide Unmatched Physician Experience

Arkstone works side-by-side with molecular laboratories, and the physicians they serve, to provide clarity and comprehension of diagnostic data through artificial intelligence, machine learning and human quality assurance.

“Next-Generation DNA Sequencing and PCR testing methodologies have revolutionized the analysis and identification of infectious diseases with unsurpassed diagnostic data,” says Dave Gross, CTO. “For all the benefits of such detailed analysis, the primary challenge is helping busy physicians interpret the information quickly. Our newly updated ArkScore brings added clarity and speed to clinical decision making.”

The improved ArkScore interprets the complex results of a molecular diagnostic test using a simple 1-7 scale to present an optimal course of treatment. This simplification allows each physician to quickly understand how treatment options are affected by the patient’s profile, presence of specific organisms, and resistance genes.

“I know firsthand how important the use of comprehensive diagnostic information is in making a confident clinical decision,” says Dr. Ari Frenkel, Arkstone’s Chief Science Officer, “Our new enhanced scoring system is designed to make selecting an optimal course of action intuitive for physicians.”

An increasing number of today’s healthcare providers are turning to DNA guided testing for trustworthy identification of microbes. Molecular laboratories have moved to the forefront of microbial diagnostics due in part to the widespread use of PCR testing during the COVID-19 pandemic. While learning to navigate the challenges of these new and advanced tools, physicians can rely on Arkstone’s analysis to simplify diagnostic reports so they can treat faster and more precisely with more confidence.

Additional features and updates to the ArkScore System:

The previously designated Resistance Detected section has been updated to the Antimicrobial Resistance ArkScore which measures the total level of resistance detected. Lower scores mean less resistance and more treatment options.

Replacing the Antibiotic Drug Score is The Adverse Reaction ArkScore. This score ranks each drug based on many factors, including associated risk and current FDA warnings. The lower the number, the safer the drug.

The brand new Infection Complexity ArkScore indicates the challenges in finding the optimal treatment regimen based on each molecular laboratory result. More complex infections have limited effective treatment options.

Interactive Online Arkstone Report
One of the most exciting new features added which bring more value to physicians is the online Arkstone Report. Physicians can scan a QR Code printed on each report to access an interactive version which includes additional information, further explanation and links to references.