Ann Clin Microbiol 2025;29(2):6. Performance of an AI-based automated feces analyzer compared with the formalin-ether concentration technique for intestinal parasite detection: a diagnostic accuracy study

Table 3. Workflow and technical characteristics of FECT and the KU-F40 systems
CategoryFECTKU-F40 system
Analysis methodManual microscopic examinationAutomated image analysis
Operation modeManualAutomated
System configurationOpen systemClosed system
Chemical exposureFrequent (Formalin, ethyl acetate)Minimal (Automated processing)
Hands-on time (180 samples/daya))7 h1.2 h
Digital recordsNot availableAvailable (Images)
Mean TAT (per test)2.3 minb)Variablec)

a)Based on the average daily workload at our institution; b)Mean TAT per test based on a daily batch of 180 samples; c)With the high power setting fixed at 20 fields/2 layers, the TAT of the KU-F40 system varies according to the lowpower settings. The following TATs were provided by the manufacturer: 2.9 min/test (at 400 pieces/layer), 3.9 min/ test (at 584 pieces/layer), 9.6 min/test (at 1,560 pieces/layer).
Abbreviations: FECT, formalin–ether concentration technique; TAT, turnaround time.