Devices and methods for detecting analytes in fluid samples

Abstract

A device for detecting the presence or amount of an analyte in a fluid sample and method thereof, comprises a sample collector and a receiving cup for receiving and holding the sample collector within the receiving cup. The sample collector contains a compressible absorbent member for collecting the fluid sample, and has a first position and a second, locked position within the receiving cup. The absorbent member is uncompressed in the first position and is compressed in the second, locked position. The sample collector or the receiving cup has at least one test element having reagents for detecting the presence or amount of the analyte in the fluid sample.

1 . A device for detecting the presence or amount of an analyte in a fluid sample comprising:
 a sample collector comprising screw threads and a compressible absorbent member for collecting the fluid sample;   a receiving cup for receiving and holding the sample collector within the receiving cup, the receiving cup comprising receiving threads;   the sample collector having a first position within the receiving cup, and a second, locked position within the receiving cup where the screw threads and receiving threads are engaged, the absorbent member being uncompressed in the first position and being compressed and held within the cup in the second, locked position; and   the receiving cup directly connected to a test element holder containing at least one test element having reagents for detecting the presence or amount of the analyte in the fluid sample, the test element being in fluid communication with the absorbent member when the sample collector is in the second, locked position;   wherein the receiving cup is sealed from fluid communication with the exterior by the sample collector when the sample collector is in the second, locked position.   
     
     
         2 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the absorbent member is in fluid communication with the test element through a channel in the receiving cup when the sample collector is in the second, locked position. 
     
     
         3 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the receiving cup is sealed from fluid communication with the exterior when the sample collector is in the second, locked position. 
     
     
         4 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the absorbent member is a sponge suitable for placing in the mouth of a test subject, and the fluid sample is saliva. 
     
     
         5 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the test element holder comprises a flattened handle for manually gripping the sample collector.