Beckman Blood Test Approved by FDA

The Food and Drug Administration cleared a Beckman Coulter Inc. blood test as an aid in managing osteoporosis and Paget’s disease, the Fullerton company said Wednesday.

The new Access Ostase test gives physicians and patients a more timely method to evaluate therapy to help prevent or treat osteoporosis, a disease that weakens the bones, and Paget’s disease, a crippling bone disorder, the company said.

The company’s stock closed Wednesday at $63.13, up 13 cents a share, on the New York Stock Exchange.