Methods for Detecting Parasites, Viruses, Bacteria and Drugs in Human and Animal Blood and Cerebral Spinal Fluid, Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

A method for developing and using algorithmic detection models for detecting parasites, viruses, bacteria or drugs in human blood, animal blood or cerebral spinal fluid, the method comprising the steps of:

• a. providing a first sample of human blood, animal blood or cerebral spinal fluid, said sample comprising one or more parasites, viruses, bacteria or drugs;
• b. using a laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy instrument, (i) applying a laser to the sample;
• (ii) collecting light emitted from said sample;
• and (iii) generating spectrum from said collected light;
• c. grouping some spectra so generated as classification spectra, and some spectra so generated as verification spectra;
• d. developing one or more algorithmic models from said classification spectra;
• e. verifying said one or more algorithmic models with said verification spectra;
• f. providing a second sample of different human blood, animal blood or cerebral spinal fluid;
• g. determining the presence or absence of parasites, viruses, bacteria or drugs, or combinations thereof, in the second sample, by applying the generated spectra to said one or more algorithmic models.