Methods and apparatus for detecting analytes

A method, comprising:

• using:
• an elongate barrel, the barrel shaped to define a channel therethrough, and having:
• an opening into the channel at a proximal region of the barrel,
• an outlet from the channel at a distal region of the barrel,
• a porous carrier, disposed within the channel;
• a reagent, held in the carrier;
• and
• a lateral flow platform, coupled to the distal region of the barrel such that a sample pad of the lateral flow platform is in fluid communication with the outlet:
• introducing a sponge holding a sample of a body fluid, the sponge coupled to a distal portion of a plunger, into the opening of the channel;
• and
• sliding the distal portion of the plunger distally through the channel, thereby compressing the sponge within the channel, driving the sample:
• out of the sponge and through the carrier, dissolving at least some of the reagent, and
• with the dissolved reagent, through the outlet, and onto the sample pad of the lateral flow platform.