MADISON, N.J., April 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (NYSE: DGX), the world's leading provider of diagnostic testing, information and services, today announced it has completed its previously announced acquisition of Athena Diagnostics, an esoteric laboratory specializing in genetic testing for neurological disorders, from Thermo Fisher Scientific (NYSE: TMO).

Athena Diagnostics will continue to operate under its own name as an independent business within Quest Diagnostics. Its clinical laboratory in Worcester, Massachusetts, is now the center of excellence in neurology diagnostics for Quest Diagnostics.

"With this acquisition, Quest Diagnostics has clearly established the leading position in the neurology diagnostics market," said Surya N. Mohapatra, Ph.D., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Quest Diagnostics. "Patients and healthcare providers will realize significant benefits from the transaction, including greater access, convenience and breadth of diagnostic services expertise than either company could offer alone."

About Athena Diagnostics

Founded in 1988, Athena Diagnostics is the leading provider of advanced diagnostic testing services for aiding in the assessment of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, spinal muscular atrophy and other neuromuscular disorders, and developmental disorders. Based in Worcester, Massachusetts, Athena provides the most comprehensive test menu and intellectual property portfolio for neurological conditions through more than 350 diagnostic tests.

About Quest Diagnostics

Quest Diagnostics is the world's leading provider of diagnostic testing, information and services that patients and doctors need to make better healthcare decisions. The company offers the broadest access to diagnostic testing services through its network of laboratories and patient service centers, and provides interpretive consultation through its extensive medical and scientific staff. Quest Diagnostics is a pioneer in developing innovative diagnostic tests and advanced healthcare information technology solutions that help improve patient care.  For more information, refer to www.QuestDiagnostics.com.

SOURCE Quest Diagnostics Incorporated