Devices and methods for analyte assays with built-in result reporting using recognizable symbols

A method of determining the presence or absence of an analyte in a liquid sample comprising:

• placing the liquid sample onto a device comprising:
• a matrix that supports the flow of liquid sample;
• an application zone on the matrix for receiving a liquid sample;
• a detection zone on the matrix with a symbol affixed thereto, the detection zone at least partially obscured by an opaque, movable material;
• one or more reagent zones on the matrix comprising reagents for conducting the assay;
• allowing the liquid sample to flow through the matrix and thereby pass through the one or more reagent zones so that reagents for conducting the assay react with the liquid sample to form a detectable reaction product when analyte is present in the liquid sample;
• allowing the liquid sample to flow through the detection zone at least partially obscured by an opaque, movable material, thereby washing away the opaque, movable material to expose a positive control area;
• wherein analyte contained in the sample is restrained on the analyte binding area as sample flows through the detection zone;
• and
• observing the detection zone of the device to determine the presence or absence of analyte in the liquid sample.

A kit comprising:

• a device for determining the presence or absence of an analyte in a fluid comprising:
• a matrix that supports the flow of liquid sample;
• an application zone on the matrix for receiving a liquid sample;
• a detection zone on the matrix with a symbol affixed thereto, the detection zone at least partially obscured by an opaque, movable material;
• one or more reagent zones on the matrix comprising reagents for conducting the assay;
• and
• instructions for use of the device.