Overview

• The modified surgical mask uses a sensor to detect ammonia and other gases linked to chronic kidney disease in exhaled breath.
• In tests on 100 participants, the mask demonstrated 84% sensitivity and 88% specificity in diagnosing kidney disease.
• The sensor, designed by researchers led by Corrado Di Natale, employs silver electrodes coated with polymers and porphyrins for selective gas detection.
• The technology also shows promise in estimating the stage of kidney disease, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Published in ACS Sensors, the study highlights the potential for this wearable device to make kidney disease screening more accessible and cost-effective.