Qiagen, a leading global provider of Sample to Insight solutions, has announced the conclusion of its gastrointestinal (GI) consensus meeting, which brought together gastroenterology experts from across the Asia-Pacific region to establish recommendations for clinical practice on the use of rapid molecular multiplex syndromic testing in GI infection diagnostics.

The two-day meeting, held on 20–21 September in collaboration with the Asia-Pacific Association of Gastroenterology (APAGE), convened key opinion leaders from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and Australia. Discussions focused on the clinical utility of syndromic testing for acute and chronic infective diarrhoeal diseases, particularly in high-risk groups such as paediatric and elderly patients, immunocompromised individuals, and those with underlying comorbidities.

Speakers highlighted a wide range of benefits. Professor Gwee Kok Ann from Singapore noted that multiplex GI panels enable the detection of a broader spectrum of diarrhoeal pathogens, including viral, bacterial and parasitic agents, as well as co-infections. Associate Professor Jackrapong Bruminhent from Thailand underlined that the rapid turnaround time allows clinicians to obtain faster results and make better treatment decisions.

Dr Kwee Chin Liew from Australia emphasised its importance for paediatric and elderly populations, while Dato Dr Mahendra Raj from Malaysia addressed both the value and limitations of the approach in immunocompromised patients. Professor Marcellus Simadibrata from Indonesia outlined benefits for those with conditions such as IBD/IBS, recurrent GI infections and chronic diarrhoea.

Dr Angela Salvana from the Philippines stressed the role of rapid testing in managing outbreak clusters, while Professor Muhammad Miftahussurur from Indonesia highlighted the importance of cycle threshold values in providing clinicians with deeper insight into infection patterns. Dr Edsel Salvana from the Philippines explained how rapid molecular testing strengthens antimicrobial stewardship by guiding decisions on when to initiate, reduce or discontinue antibiotics.

Qiagen representatives said the technology is transforming the way GI infections are diagnosed by providing faster and more comprehensive results, which not only improve patient care but also support responsible antibiotic use. APAGE president Professor Ooi Choon Jin added that the consensus helps align regional practices and demonstrates the importance of adopting innovative diagnostics that enhance standards of care.

Experts at the meeting agreed that rapid molecular syndromic testing offers significant advantages over traditional stool testing methods and should be recommended as the preferred diagnostic approach for infectious diarrhoeal diseases, particularly among vulnerable groups. With Asia-Pacific carrying a heavy burden of such diseases, the consensus is expected to influence clinical practice and healthcare policy. Qiagen reaffirmed its commitment to advancing innovative diagnostic solutions that improve patient outcomes, support antimicrobial stewardship and strengthen outbreak preparedness.