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Lippi G, Mattiuzzi C, Favaloro EJ. Artificial intelligence in the pre-analytical phase: State-of-the art and future perspectives. J Med Biochem 2024; 43:1-10. [PMID: 38496022 PMCID: PMC10943465 DOI: 10.5937/jomb0-45936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) has become widespread in many areas of science and medicine, including laboratory medicine. Although it seems obvious that the analytical and post-analytical phases could be the most important fields of application in laboratory medicine, a kaleidoscope of new opportunities has emerged to extend the benefits of AI to many manual labor-intensive activities belonging to the pre-analytical phase, which are inherently characterized by enhanced vulnerability and higher risk of errors. These potential applications involve increasing the appropriateness of test prescription (with computerized physician order entry or demand management tools), improved specimen collection (using active patient recognition, automated specimen labeling, vein recognition and blood collection assistance, along with automated blood drawing), more efficient sample transportation (facilitated by the use of pneumatic transport systems or drones, and monitored with smart blood tubes or data loggers), systematic evaluation of sample quality (by measuring serum indices, fill volume or for detecting sample clotting), as well as error detection and analysis. Therefore, this opinion paper aims to discuss the state-of-the-art and some future possibilities of AI in the preanalytical phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lippi
- University of Verona, Section of Clinical Biochemistry and School of Medicine, Verona, Italy
| | - Camilla Mattiuzzi
- Hospital of Rovereto, Provincial Agency for Social and Sanitary Services (APSS), Medical Direction, Trento, Italy
| | - Emmanuel J. Favaloro
- Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research (ICPMR), Sydney Centres for Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Department of Haematology, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW Australia
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2
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Ercan Ş, Tat M. Determination of lipemia acceptance thresholds for 31 immunoassay analytes. Clin Chim Acta 2023; 548:117508. [PMID: 37572842 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2023.117508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lipemia is one of common endogenous interferences that can compromises sample quality and potentially influence results of various laboratory methods. Determination of the lipemic index or triglyceride concentrations are used to define the degree of lipemia. This study was aimed to establish lipemic index (LI) and triglyceride thresholds above where significant interference exists for 31 immunoassay analytes measured on Roche Cobas 6000. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study was carried out following CLSI C56-A and EP07-ED3:2018 guidelines using sample pools spiked with increasing concentrations of lipid emulsion solution, reaching 70 mmol/L. To define the LI and triglyceride thresholds, the bias from concentration in the native sample was calculated at different lipemia degree and compared with allowable error limits based on biological variation or state-of-the-art technology. RESULTS No lipemia interference was observed for 27 out of 31 analytes even at the highest concentrations of lipid emulsion (LI ranging from 1737 to 2086 mg/dL, triglyceride concentration 60.34-73.99 mmol/L). However, progesterone, 25-OH vitamin D, testosterone, and estradiol were negatively affected by lipemia at 217 mg/dL (9.58 mmol/L), 222 mg/dL (10.66 mmol/L), 478 mg/dL (18.81 mmol/L), and 941 mg/dL (35.82 mmol/L) of the LI (triglyceride concentration), respectively. CONCLUSION Most immunoassays evaluated in this study were found to be robust to lipemia interference. By using these thresholds, laboratories can report the immunoassay results from analyzing a lipemic patient sample in many cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şerif Ercan
- Lüleburgaz State Hospital, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Kırklareli, Turkey.
| | - Mustafa Tat
- Kırklareli Education and Research Hospital, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Kırklareli, Turkey
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3
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Daves M, Piccin A, Vicidomini C, De Luisi A, Mega A. Utility of serum indices in a particular case of serum protein electrophoresis. Biochem Med (Zagreb) 2022; 32:030802. [PMID: 35966258 PMCID: PMC9344864 DOI: 10.11613/bm.2022.030802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Screening and measurement of monoclonal (M) proteins are commonly performed using capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). The identification of M-protein or monoclonal component (CM) is an essential requirement for diagnosis and monitoring of monoclonal gammopathies. The detection of CM has been largely improved by CZE. Capillary electrophoresis estimates CM more accurately, because absence of variation due to different dye binding affinities of proteins as instead seen with agarose gel electrophoresis. However, interferences can be present in CZE. This occurs because all substances absorbing at 200 nm can be identified. Recognition and handling of specimens exhibiting such interferences is essential to ensure accurate diagnostic and patient safety. We herein report on an unusual case of serum protein electrophoresis, to highlight that laboratory staff must be aware of and familiarise with the information provided by laboratory instruments. For example, in the case of serum indices, about specimen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Daves
- Clinical Biochemical Laboratory, Hospital of Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
- Corresponding author:
| | - Andrea Piccin
- Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service, Belfast, UK
- Department of Internal Medicine V, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | | | - Antonia De Luisi
- Clinical Biochemical Laboratory, Hospital of Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Andrea Mega
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hospital of Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
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Nikolac Gabaj N, Miler M, Vrtaric A, Celap I, Bocan M, Filipi P, Radisic Biljak V, Simundic AM, Supak Smolcic V, Kocijancic M. Comparison of three different protocols for obtaining hemolysis. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:714-725. [PMID: 35212494 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2021-1227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hemolysis is associated with erroneous or delayed results. Objectives of the study were to compare four different methods for obtaining hemolysis in vitro on three different analyzers. METHODS Hemolysis was prepared with addition of pure hemoglobin into serum pool, osmotic shock, aspiration through blood collection needle, freezing/thawing of whole blood. Biochemistry parameters were measured in duplicate at Architect c8000 (Abbott, Abbott Park, USA), Beckman Coulter AU680 (Beckman Coulter, Brea, USA) and Cobas 6000 c501 (Roche, Mannheim, Germany), according to manufacturers' declarations. Cut-off value was defined as the highest value of H index with corresponding bias lower than acceptance criteria. RESULTS We were not able to obtain results with freezing protocol. On all three platforms, lowest number of analytes were sensitive to hemolysis at H=0.5 using method of adding free hemoglobin. When osmotic shock was used, cut-off values for the most analytes were generally met at lower values. Hemolysis significantly interfered with measurement of potassium and lactate dehydrogenase (LD) at H=0.5 on all platforms. The most of the tested analytes had the lowest acceptable H index when aspiration method was used. At the low level of hemolysis (H=0.8) glucose, sodium, potassium, chloride, phosphate, and LD were affected on all analyzers, with some additional analytes depending on the manufacturer. CONCLUSIONS Hemolysis interference differs on different analyzers and according to protocol for obtaining hemolysis. Aspiration method was generally the most sensitive to hemolysis interference, while addition of free Hb was the most resistant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Nikolac Gabaj
- Working Group for Preanalytical Phase of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marijana Miler
- Working Group for Preanalytical Phase of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Alen Vrtaric
- Working Group for Preanalytical Phase of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivana Celap
- Working Group for Preanalytical Phase of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marina Bocan
- Working Group for Preanalytical Phase of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Medical Biochemistry Laboratory, Polyclinic Salzer, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Petra Filipi
- Working Group for Preanalytical Phase of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Centre Split, Split, Croatia
| | - Vanja Radisic Biljak
- Working Group for Preanalytical Phase of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital "Sveti Duh", Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana-Maria Simundic
- Working Group for Preanalytical Phase of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital "Sveti Duh", Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vesna Supak Smolcic
- Working Group for Preanalytical Phase of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Clinical Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
- Department of Medical Informatics, Rijeka University School of Medicine, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Marija Kocijancic
- Working Group for Preanalytical Phase of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Central Laboratory, University Clinic Halle, Halle, Germany
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Gómez Rioja R, Ventura M, Llopis MA, Bauça JM, Caballero Garralda A, Ibarz M, Martinez D, Gómez C, Salas Gómez-Pablos P, García Del Pino I, Delgado J, Puente JJ, Marzana I. External quality assessment of serum indices: Spanish SEQC-ML program. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:66-73. [PMID: 34670030 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2021-0786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Serum indices included in clinical chemistry instruments are widely used by laboratories to assess the quality of samples. Instruments that report quantitative results allow an evaluation of their diagnostic performance in a similar way to other biochemical tests. The Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQC-ML) launched a monthly External Quality program of serum indices in 2018 using three lyophilized materials of simultaneous annual distribution. We present the results of the first three years of the program. METHODS The use of four different quality control materials with different concentrations in three alternate months allows an annual evaluation of the participant's accuracy. Assigned values are established by consensus among homogeneous groups, considering necessary at least 10 participants for a comparison at instrument level. The average percentage difference results per instrument allow the assessment of bias among groups. RESULTS The imprecision of the three indices ranges between 3 and 9%, with no major differences among instruments. Significant differences were observed in all indices among instruments with more than 10 participants (Roche Cobas, Abbott Architect, Abbott Alinity and Siemens Advia). The 90th percentile of the distribution of percentage differences was used as the analytical performance specification (APS). An improvement in performance was observed in the first three years of the program, probably due to the learning curve effect. In 2020, APS of 7.8, 12.2 and 9.7% were proposed for hemolytic, icteric and lipemic indices, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Serum indices have a great impact on the quality and the reliability of laboratory test results. Participation in proficiency testing programs for serum indices is helpful to encourage harmonization among providers and laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén Gómez Rioja
- Laboratory Medicine, La Paz - Cantoblanco - Carlos III University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - María Antonia Llopis
- Laboratory Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Josep Miquel Bauça
- Servei d'Anàlisis Clíniques, Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Palma de Mallorca, Illes Balears, Spain
| | | | - Mercedes Ibarz
- Labortory Medicine, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova, Lleida, Catalunya, Spain
| | | | - Carolina Gómez
- Laboratory Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Jose Delgado
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Palma, Mallorca, Spain
| | - Juan Jose Puente
- Servicio Bioquímica, Hospital Clinico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Iciar Marzana
- Unidad Extraanalítica, Laboratorios Hospital Universitario Cruces, Baracaldo (Vizcaya), Spain
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Uçar KT, Çat A, Gümüş A, Nurlu N. Interferograms plotted with reference change value (RCV) may facilitate the management of hemolyzed samples. J Med Biochem 2021; 41:53-61. [PMID: 35291494 PMCID: PMC8882018 DOI: 10.5937/jomb0-31250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) Working Group for Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE) have recommended an algorithm based on the reference change value (RCV) to evaluate hemolysis. We utilized this algorithm to analyze hemolysis-sensitive parameters. Methods Two tubes of blood were collected from each of the 10 participants, one of which was subjected to mechanical trauma while the other was centrifuged directly. Subsequently, the samples were diluted with the participant's hemolyzed sample to obtain the desired hemoglobin concentrations (0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 g/L). ALT, AST, K, LDH, T. Bil tests were performed using Beckman Coulter AU680 analyzer. The analytical and clinical cut-offs were based on the biological variation for the allowable imprecision and RCV. The algorithms could report the values directly below the analytical cut-off or those between the analytical and clinical cut-offs with comments. If the change was above the clinical cut-off, the test was rejected. The linear regression was used for interferograms, and the hemoglobin concentrations corresponding to cut-offs were calculated via the interferograms. Results The RCV was calculated as 29.6% for ALT. Therefore, ALT should be rejected in samples containing >5.9 g/L hemoglobin. The RCVs for AST, K, LDH, and T. Bil were calculated as 27.9%, 12.1%, 19.2%, and 61.2%, while the samples' hemoglobin concentrations for test rejection were 0.8, 1.6, 0.5, and 2.2 g/L, respectively. Conclusions Algorithms prepared with RCV could provide evidence-based results and objectively manage hemolyzed samples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdulkadir Çat
- Istanbul Gaziosmanpasa Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Nilhan Nurlu
- Istanbul Gaziosmanpasa Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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7
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Çat A, Uçar KT, Gümüş A. Effect of haemolysis on an enzymatic measurement of ethanol. Biochem Med (Zagreb) 2020; 31:010704. [PMID: 33380891 PMCID: PMC7745161 DOI: 10.11613/bm.2021.010704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction We investigated the interference of haemolysis on ethanol testing carried out with the Synchron assay kit using an AU680 autoanalyser (Beckman Coulter, Brea, USA). Materials and methods Two tubes of plasma samples were collected from 20 volunteers. Mechanical haemolysis was performed in one tube, and no other intervention was performed in the other tube. After centrifugation, haemolysed and non-haemolysed samples were diluted to obtain samples with the desired free haemoglobin (Hb) values (0, 1, 2, 5, 10 g/L). A portion of these samples was then separated, and ethanol was added to the separated sample to obtain a concentration of 86.8 mmol/L ethanol. After that, these samples were diluted with ethanol-free samples with the same Hb concentration to obtain samples containing 43.4, 21.7, and 10.9 mmol/L. Each group was divided into 20 equal parts, and an ethanol test was carried out. The coefficient of variation (CV), bias, and total error (TE) values were calculated. Results The TE values of haemolysis-free samples were approximately 2-5%, and the TE values of haemolysed samples were approximately 10-18%. The bias values of haemolysed samples ranged from nearly - 6.2 to - 15.7%. Conclusions Haemolysis led to negative interference in all samples. However, based on the 25% allowable total error value specified for ethanol in the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA 88) criteria, the TE values did not exceed 25%. Consequently, ethanol concentration can be measured in samples containing free Hb up to 10 g/L.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulkadir Çat
- Istanbul Gaziosmanpasa Training and Research Hospital, Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kamil Taha Uçar
- Istanbul Gaziosmanpasa Training and Research Hospital, Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Alper Gümüş
- Istanbul Gaziosmanpasa Training and Research Hospital, Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul, Turkey
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8
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Gils C, Sandberg MB, Nybo M. Verification of the hemolysis index measurement: imprecision, accuracy, measuring range, reference interval and impact of implementing analytically and clinically derived sample rejection criteria. Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation 2020; 80:580-589. [DOI: 10.1080/00365513.2020.1818281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Gils
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Clinical Institute, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Maria Boysen Sandberg
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Mads Nybo
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Clinical Institute, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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9
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Gidske G, Aakre KM, Rustad P, Sandberg S, Norling A, Pelanti J, Henriksen G, Thorsteinsdottir I, Kristensen GBB. Handling of hemolyzed serum samples in clinical chemistry laboratories: the Nordic hemolysis project. Clin Chem Lab Med 2020; 57:1699-1711. [PMID: 31617690 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2019-0366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Some clinical chemistry measurement methods are vulnerable to interference if hemolyzed serum samples are used. The aims of this study were: (1) to obtain updated information about how hemolysis affects clinical chemistry test results on different instrument platforms used in Nordic laboratories, and (2) to obtain data on how test results from hemolyzed samples are reported in Nordic laboratories. Methods Four identical samples containing different degrees of hemolysis were prepared and distributed to 145 laboratories in the Nordic countries. The laboratories were asked to measure the concentration of cell-free hemoglobin (Hb), together with 15 clinical chemistry analytes. In addition, the laboratories completed a questionnaire about how hemolyzed samples are handled and reported. Results Automated detection of hemolysis in all routine patient samples was used by 63% of laboratories, and 88% had written procedures on how to handle hemolyzed samples. The different instrument platforms measured comparable mean Hb concentrations in the four samples. For most analytes, hemolysis caused a homogenous degree of interference regardless of the instrument platform used, except for alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin (total) and creatine kinase (CK). The recommended cut-off points for rejection of a result varied substantially between the manufacturers. The laboratories differed in how they reported test results, even when they used the same type of instrument. Conclusions Most of the analytes were homogeneously affected by hemolysis, regardless of the instrument used. There is large variation, however, between the laboratories on how they report test results from hemolyzed samples, even when they use the same type of instrument.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gro Gidske
- Norwegian Organization for Quality Improvement of Laboratory Examinations (Noklus), Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kristin Moberg Aakre
- Hormone Laboratory, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Pål Rustad
- Norwegian Organization for Quality Improvement of Laboratory Examinations (Noklus), Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, Bergen, Norway.,Fürst Medical Laboratory, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sverre Sandberg
- Norwegian Organization for Quality Improvement of Laboratory Examinations (Noklus), Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anna Norling
- External Quality Assurance in Laboratory Medicine in Sweden (Equalis), Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Gitte Henriksen
- Danish Institute for External Quality Assurance for Laboratories in Health Care (DEKS), Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Ingunn Thorsteinsdottir
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Landspitali, National University Hospital, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Gunn B B Kristensen
- Norwegian Organization for Quality Improvement of Laboratory Examinations (Noklus), Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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Lippi G, Bovo C, Salvagno GL. Are icteric and lipemic indices reliable to screen for hyperbilirubinemia and hypertriglyceridemia? Clin Chem Lab Med 2020; 58:e1-e4. [PMID: 31343978 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2019-0609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lippi
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Bovo
- Medical Direction, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Gian Luca Salvagno
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
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11
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Delanghe JR, Oyaert M, Speeckaert MM, De Buyzere ML. L-index, more than a screening tool for hypertriglyceridemia. Clin Chem Lab Med 2020; 58:e128-e129. [PMID: 31990660 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2019-1270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joris R Delanghe
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Matthijs Oyaert
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marijn M Speeckaert
- Department of Nephrology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Research Foundation Flanders, Brussels, Belgium
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The CRESS checklist for reporting stability studies: on behalf of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) Working Group for the Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 59:59-69. [DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2020-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
To ensure that clinical laboratories produce results that are both accurate and of clinical utility it is essential that only samples of adequate quality are analysed. Although various studies and databases assessing the stability of analytes in different settings do exist, guidance on how to perform and report stability studies is lacking. This results in studies that often do not report essential information, thus compromising transferability of the data. The aim of this manuscript is to describe the
C
hecklist for
R
eporting
S
tability
S
tudies (CRESS) against which future studies should be reported to ensure standardisation of reporting and easy assessment of transferability of studies to other healthcare settings. The EFLM WG-PRE (European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine Working Group for the Preanalytical Phase) produced the CRESS checklist following a detailed literature review and extensive discussions resulting in consensus agreement. The checklist consists of 20 items covering all the aspects that should be considered when producing a report on a stability study including details of what should be included for each item and a rationale as to why. Adherence to the CRESS checklist will ensure that studies are reported in a transparent and replicable way. This will allow other laboratories to assess whether published data meet the stability criteria required in their own particular healthcare scenario. The EFLM WG-PRE encourage researchers and authors to use the CRESS checklist as a guide to planning stability studies and to produce standardised reporting of future stability studies.
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Dupuy AM, Bargnoux AS, Kuster N, Cristol JP, Badiou S. Determination of hemolysis cut-offs for biochemical and immunochemical analytes according to their value. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 58:1232-1241. [DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2019-1228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
All general biochemistry instruments allow the measure of hemolysis index (HI), and suppliers provide an acceptable HI for each assay without consideration of the analyte value or its clinical application. Our first objective was to measure the impact of hemolysis degree on plasma biochemical and immunochemical analytes to determine the maximum allowable HI for each of them using four calculation methods as significant bias in comparison to manufacturer’s data. The second objective was to assess whether the maximum allowable HI varied according to the analyte values.
Methods
Twenty analytes were measured in hemolyzate-treated plasma to determine the HI leading to a significant change compared to baseline value. Analytes were assessed at one (3 analytes), two (5 analytes) and three (12 analytes) values according to their sensitivity to hemolysis and their clinical impact. We used four calculation methods as significant limit from baseline value: the total change limit (TCL), the 10% change (10%Δ), the analytical change limit and the reference change value.
Results
Allowable HI was significantly different according to the threshold chosen for most analytes and was also dependent on the analyte value for alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, iron, haptoglobin and high sensitivity troponin T. No hemolysis interference was observed for albumin, creatinine, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin even at an HI value of 11 g/L.
Conclusions
This study highlights that TCL is the most appropriate calculation method to determine allowable HI in practice for biochemical and immunochemical parameters using Cobas 8000© from Roche Diagnostics. In addition, different allowable HI were found according to analyte value leading to optimization of resampling to save time in patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Marie Dupuy
- Department of Biochemistry , Lapeyronie University Hospital , Montpellier , France
| | - Anne Sophie Bargnoux
- Department of Biochemistry , Lapeyronie University Hospital , Montpellier , France
- PhyMedExp, INSERM, CNRS , University of Montpellier , Montpellier , France
| | - Nils Kuster
- Department of Biochemistry , Lapeyronie University Hospital , Montpellier , France
- PhyMedExp, INSERM, CNRS , University of Montpellier , Montpellier , France
| | - Jean Paul Cristol
- Department of Biochemistry , Lapeyronie University Hospital , 191 Avenue du Doyen Gaston Giraud , 34295 Montpellier Cedex 5 , France
- PhyMedExp, INSERM, CNRS , University of Montpellier , Montpellier , France , Fax: +33 4 67 33 83 93
| | - Stéphanie Badiou
- Department of Biochemistry , Lapeyronie University Hospital , Montpellier , France
- PhyMedExp, INSERM, CNRS , University of Montpellier , Montpellier , France
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Hedeland Y, Gustafsson CM, Touza Z, Ridefelt P. Hemolysis interference in 10 coagulation assays on an instrument with viscosity‐based, chromogenic, and turbidimetric clot detection. Int J Lab Hematol 2020; 42:341-349. [DOI: 10.1111/ijlh.13188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ylva Hedeland
- Department of Medical Sciences Clinical Chemistry Uppsala University Hospital Uppsala Sweden
- Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology Uppsala University Hospital Uppsala Sweden
| | | | - Zinah Touza
- Department of Medical Sciences Clinical Chemistry Uppsala University Hospital Uppsala Sweden
| | - Peter Ridefelt
- Department of Medical Sciences Clinical Chemistry Uppsala University Hospital Uppsala Sweden
- Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology Uppsala University Hospital Uppsala Sweden
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15
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Simundic AM, Baird G, Cadamuro J, Costelloe SJ, Lippi G. Managing hemolyzed samples in clinical laboratories. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2019; 57:1-21. [PMID: 31603708 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2019.1664391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Hemolysis is conventionally defined as membrane disruption of red blood cells and other blood cells that is accompanied by subsequent release of intracellular components into the serum or plasma. It accounts for over 60% of blood sample rejections in the laboratory and is the most common preanalytical error in laboratory medicine. Hemolysis can occur both in vivo and in vitro. Intravascular hemolysis (in vivo) is always associated with an underlying pathological condition or disease, and thus careful steps should always be taken by the laboratory to exclude in vivo hemolysis with confidence. In vitro hemolysis, on the other hand, is highly preventable. It may occur at all stages of the preanalytical phase (i.e. sample collection, transport, handling and storage), and may lead to clinically relevant, yet spurious, changes in patient results by interfering with laboratory measurements. Hemolysis interference is exerted through several mechanisms: (1) spectrophotometric interference, (2) release of intracellular components, (3) sample dilution and (4) chemical interference. The degree of interference observed depends on the level of hemolysis and also on the assay methodology. Recent evidence shows that preanalytical practices related to detection and management of hemolyzed samples are highly heterogeneous and need to be standardized. The Working Group for Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE) of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) has published many recommendations for facilitating standardization and improvement of this important preanalytical issue. Some key EFLM WG-PRE publications related to hemolysis involve: (i) a call for more transparency and some practical recommendations for improving the harmonization of the automatic assessment of serum indices and their clinical usefulness, specifically the hemolysis index (H-index), (ii) recommendations on how to manage local quality assurance of serum or plasma hemolysis/icterus/lipemia-indices (HIL-indices) and (iii) recommendations on how to detect and manage hemolyzed samples in clinical chemistry testing. In this review we provide a comprehensive overview of hemolysis, including its causes and effects on clinical laboratory assays. Furthermore, we list and discuss the most recent recommendations aimed at managing hemolyzed samples in everyday practice. Given the high prevalence of hemolyzed blood samples, the associated costs, the great heterogeneity in how hemolysis is handled across healthcare settings, countries and continents, and increasing patient cross-border mobility, standardization and quality improvement processes aimed at combatting this important preanalytical problem are clearly warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana-Maria Simundic
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital "Sveti Duh", University of Zagreb, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Geoffrey Baird
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Janne Cadamuro
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Seán J Costelloe
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Republic of Ireland
| | - Giuseppe Lippi
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Pre-analytical quality indicators in laboratory medicine: Performance of laboratories participating in the IFCC working group “Laboratory Errors and Patient Safety” project. Clin Chim Acta 2019; 497:35-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2019.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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17
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Colak S, Tasdemir O, van der Schaaf M, Opdam F, van den Noort V, van den Broek D, van Rossum HH. Design, validation and performance of aspartate aminotransferase- and lactate dehydrogenase-reporting algorithms for haemolysed specimens including correction within quality specifications. Ann Clin Biochem 2019:4563219878475. [PMID: 31495183 DOI: 10.1177/0004563219878475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In vitro haemolysis is a major operational challenge for medical laboratories. A new experimental design was used to investigate under what conditions algorithms could be designed to report either quantitative or qualitative aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase results outside the manufacturer's haemolysis specifications. Quantitative corrections were required to meet prespecified quality specifications. METHODS Twenty-five patient samples were used to design reporting algorithms and another 41 patient samples were used to validate the algorithms. Aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase and haemolysis index were determined using a Cobas 6000 analyser (Roche diagnostics, Mannheim, Germany). Correction factors were determined, and the accuracy of the correction was investigated. Reporting algorithms were designed based on (i) the manufacturer's cut-off for the haemolysis index, (ii) corrections within the total allowable error specification and (iii) qualitative reporting based on obtained results. The impact of the reporting algorithms was retrospectively determined by recalculating six months of aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase results. RESULTS No correction for aspartate aminotransferase/lactate dehydrogenase was possible for results below the upper reference interval limit, while results equal to or greater than the upper reference interval limit could, up to mild haemolysis, be corrected within the total error criterion. All samples generated from the validated patient cohort fulfilled the set criteria. The algorithms allowed reporting 88.5% and 85.9% of otherwise unreported aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase results, respectively. CONCLUSIONS An approach is presented that allows to generate and validate reporting algorithms for aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase compatible with prespecified quality specifications. The designed algorithms resulted in a significant reduction of otherwise unreported aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selcuk Colak
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Onur Tasdemir
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marianne van der Schaaf
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frans Opdam
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vincent van den Noort
- Department of Biometrics, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Daan van den Broek
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Huub H van Rossum
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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18
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Cadamuro J, Lippi G, von Meyer A, Ibarz M, van Dongen E, Cornes M, Nybo M, Vermeersch P, Grankvist K, Guimaraes JT, Kristensen GBB, de la Salle B, Simundic AM. European survey on preanalytical sample handling - Part 2: Practices of European laboratories on monitoring and processing haemolytic, icteric and lipemic samples. On behalf of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) Working Group for the Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE). Biochem Med (Zagreb) 2019; 29:020705. [PMID: 31223259 PMCID: PMC6559623 DOI: 10.11613/bm.2019.020705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction No guideline currently exists on how to detect or document haemolysis, icterus or lipemia (HIL) in blood samples, nor on subsequent use of this information. The EFLM WG-PRE has performed a survey for assessing current practices of European laboratories in HIL monitoring. This second part of two coherent articles is focused on HIL. Materials and methods An online survey, containing 39 questions on preanalytical issues, was disseminated among EFLM member countries. Seventeen questions exclusively focused on assessment, management and follow-up actions of HIL in routine blood samples. Results Overall, 1405 valid responses from 37 countries were received. A total of 1160 (86%) of all responders stating to analyse blood samples - monitored HIL. HIL was mostly checked in clinical chemistry samples and less frequently in those received for coagulation, therapeutic drug monitoring and serology/infectious disease testing. HIL detection by automatic HIL indices or visual inspection, along with haemolysis cut-offs definition, varied widely among responders. A quarter of responders performing automated HIL checks used internal quality controls. In haemolytic/icteric/lipemic samples, most responders (70%) only rejected HIL-sensitive parameters, whilst about 20% released all test results with general comments. Other responders did not analysed but rejected the entire sample, while some released all tests, without comments. Overall, 26% responders who monitored HIL were using this information for monitoring phlebotomy or sample transport quality. Conclusion Strategies for monitoring and treating haemolytic, icteric or lipemic samples are quite heterogeneous in Europe. The WG-PRE will use these insights for developing and providing recommendations aimed at harmonizing strategies across Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janne Cadamuro
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Giuseppe Lippi
- Section of Clinical Chemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alexander von Meyer
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Kliniken Nordoberpfalz AG and Klinikum St. Marien, Weiden and Amberg, Germany
| | - Mercedes Ibarz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Edmee van Dongen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.,Section of Clinical Chemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Kliniken Nordoberpfalz AG and Klinikum St. Marien, Weiden and Amberg, Germany.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain.,Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Clinical Chemistry Department, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, Worcester, UK.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Clinical Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Medical Biosciences, Clinical Chemistry, Umea University, Umea, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Pathology, São João Hospital Center, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, and EPI Unit, Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Norwegian Quality Improvement of laboratory examinations (Noklus), Bergen, Norway.,UK NEQAS Haematology, West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, operating UK NEQAS for Haematology and Transfusion, Watford, UK.,Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Sveti Duh, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Michael Cornes
- Clinical Chemistry Department, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, Worcester, UK
| | - Mads Nybo
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Pieter Vermeersch
- Clinical Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kjell Grankvist
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Clinical Chemistry, Umea University, Umea, Sweden
| | - Joao Tiago Guimaraes
- Department of Clinical Pathology, São João Hospital Center, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, and EPI Unit, Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Gunn B B Kristensen
- Norwegian Quality Improvement of laboratory examinations (Noklus), Bergen, Norway
| | - Barbara de la Salle
- UK NEQAS Haematology, West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, operating UK NEQAS for Haematology and Transfusion, Watford, UK
| | - Ana-Maria Simundic
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Sveti Duh, Zagreb, Croatia
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19
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Cadamuro J, Lippi G, von Meyer A, Ibarz M, van Dongen E, Cornes M, Nybo M, Vermeersch P, Grankvist K, Guimaraes JT, Kristensen GBB, de la Salle B, Simundic AM. European survey on preanalytical sample handling - Part 1: How do European laboratories monitor the preanalytical phase? On behalf of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) Working Group for the Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE). Biochem Med (Zagreb) 2019; 29:020704. [PMID: 31223258 PMCID: PMC6559617 DOI: 10.11613/bm.2019.020704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Compared to other activities of the testing process, the preanalytical phase is plagued by a lower degree of standardization, which makes it more vulnerable to errors. With the aim of providing guidelines and recommendations, the EFLM WG-PRE issued a survey across European medical laboratories, to gather information on local preanalytical practices. This is part one of two coherent articles, which covers all practices on monitoring preanalytical quality except haemolysis, icterus and lipemia (HIL). Materials and methods An online survey, containing 39 questions dealing with a broad spectrum of preanalytical issues, was disseminated to EFLM member countries. The survey included questions on willingness of laboratories to engage in preanalytical issues. Results Overall, 1405 valid responses were received from 37 countries. 1265 (94%) responders declared to monitor preanalytical errors. Assessment, documentation and further use of this information varied widely among respondents and partially among countries. Many responders were interested in a preanalytical online platform, holding information on various aspects of the preanalytical phase (N = 1177; 87%), in a guideline for measurement and evaluation of preanalytical variables (N = 1235; 92%), and in preanalytical e-learning programs or webinars (N = 1125; 84%). Fewer responders were interested in, or already participating in, preanalytical EQA programs (N = 951; 71%). Conclusion Although substantial heterogeneity was found across European laboratories on preanalytical phase monitoring, the interest in preanalytical issues was high. A large majority of participants indicated an interest in new guidelines regarding preanalytical variables and learning activities. This important data will be used by the WG-PRE for providing recommendations on the most critical issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janne Cadamuro
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Giuseppe Lippi
- Section of Clinical Chemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alexander von Meyer
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Kliniken Nordoberpfalz AG and Klinikum St. Marien, Weiden and Amberg, Germany
| | - Mercedes Ibarz
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Edmee van Dongen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.,Section of Clinical Chemistry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Kliniken Nordoberpfalz AG and Klinikum St. Marien, Weiden and Amberg, Germany.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain.,Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Clinical Chemistry Department, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, Worcester, UK.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Clinical Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Medical Biosciences, Clinical Chemistry, Umea University, Umea, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Pathology, São João Hospital Center, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, and EPI Unit, Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Norwegian Quality Improvement of laboratory examinations (Noklus), Bergen, Norway.,UK NEQAS Haematology, West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, operating UK NEQAS for Haematology and Transfusion, Watford, UK.,Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Sveti Duh, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Michael Cornes
- Clinical Chemistry Department, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, Worcester, UK
| | - Mads Nybo
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Pieter Vermeersch
- Clinical Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kjell Grankvist
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Clinical Chemistry, Umea University, Umea, Sweden
| | - Joao Tiago Guimaraes
- Department of Clinical Pathology, São João Hospital Center, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, and EPI Unit, Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Gunn B B Kristensen
- Norwegian Quality Improvement of laboratory examinations (Noklus), Bergen, Norway
| | - Barbara de la Salle
- UK NEQAS Haematology, West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, operating UK NEQAS for Haematology and Transfusion, Watford, UK
| | - Ana-Maria Simundic
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Sveti Duh, Zagreb, Croatia
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20
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Lippi G, von Meyer A, Cadamuro J, Simundic AM. Blood sample quality. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 6:25-31. [PMID: 29794250 DOI: 10.1515/dx-2018-0018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Several lines of evidence now confirm that the vast majority of errors in laboratory medicine occur in the extra-analytical phases of the total testing processing, especially in the preanalytical phase. Most importantly, the collection of unsuitable specimens for testing (either due to inappropriate volume or quality) is by far the most frequent source of all laboratory errors, thus calling for urgent strategies for improving blood sample quality and managing data potentially generated measuring unsuitable specimens. A comprehensive overview of scientific literature leads us to conclude that hemolyzed samples are the most frequent cause of specimen non-conformity in clinical laboratories (40-70%), followed by insufficient or inappropriate sample volume (10-20%), biological samples collected in the wrong container (5-15%) and undue clotting (5-10%). Less frequent causes of impaired sample quality include contamination by infusion fluids (i.e. most often saline or glucose solutions), cross-contamination of blood tubes additives, inappropriate sample storage conditions or repeated freezing-thawing cycles. Therefore, this article is aimed to summarize the current evidence about the most frequent types of unsuitable blood samples, along with tentative recommendations on how to prevent or manage these preanalytical non-conformities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lippi
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital of Verona, Piazzale LA Scuro, 37100 - Verona, Italy
| | - Alexander von Meyer
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Kliniken Nordoberpfalz AG and Klinikum St. Marien, Weiden and Amberg, Germany
| | - Janne Cadamuro
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ana-Maria Simundic
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital Sveti Duh, Zagreb, Croatia
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21
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Saracevic A, Dukic L, Simundic AM. Haemolysis and lipemia interfere with resistin and myeloperoxidase BioVendor ELISA assays. Biochem Med (Zagreb) 2019; 29:020703. [PMID: 31015785 PMCID: PMC6457919 DOI: 10.11613/bm.2019.020703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of haemolysis and lipemia on resistin (RES) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) measurement by BioVendor enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Materials and methods Blood was taken from healthy volunteers into lithium heparin tubes. Plasma samples were spiked with Lipofundin® emulsion (B. Braun Melsungen AG, Germany) for lipemia interference testing. Haemolysed samples were obtained by drawing aliquots of heparinized blood through a 26 gauge needle. Index of haemolysis (H), lipemia (L) and triglyceride concentration were measured on Abbott Architect c8000. Haemoglobin concentration was measured on Sysmex XN-1000. Concentrations of RES and MPO in all samples were determined with RES and MPO ELISA kits (BioVendor, Czech Republic). All measurements were performed in triplicate. Biases from the native samples were calculated for both analytes and compared with an arbitrary value (e.g. ± 10%). Results Triglyceride concentration in the investigated samples ranged from 0.57 to 38.23 mmol/L, which corresponds to L index from - 0.01 to 13.77. Haemoglobin concentration in all samples ranged from 0 to 8 g/L which correspond to H index from 0.05 to 8.77. Both MPO and RES showed significant biases at 1 g/L haemoglobin (58.7% and 66.7%, respectively). Also, both MPO and RES showed significant biases at 4.66 mmol/L triglycerides (33.8% and - 12.2%, respectively). Conclusions Resistin BioVendor assays are affected by haemolysis and lipemia already at low degree of interferent. Haemolysis was found to interfere at 1 g/L haemoglobin for both assays, while lipemia interferes at 4.66 mmol/L of triglycerides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Saracevic
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital "Sveti Duh", Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lora Dukic
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital "Sveti Duh", Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana-Maria Simundic
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, University Hospital "Sveti Duh", Zagreb, Croatia
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Mertens JC, Claesen K, Leenaerts D, Sim Y, Lambeir AM, Hendriks D. Inhibition of the procarboxypeptidase U (proCPU, TAFI, proCPB2) system due to hemolysis. J Thromb Haemost 2019; 17:878-884. [PMID: 30887647 DOI: 10.1111/jth.14432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Essentials Hemolytic influence on the (pro)carboxypeptidase U ((pro)CPU) system is not known. In the current manuscript, this was assessed by spiking pooled normal plasma with hemolysate. CPU activity, proCPU levels, and clot lysis times showed a dose-dependent hemolytic bias. The observed bias in the several CPU related parameters is due to inhibition of CPU activity. INTRODUCTION Spurious hemolysis of samples is the leading cause of interference in coagulation testing and was described to interfere in fibrinolysis assays. The influence of hemolysis on the procarboxypeptidase U (proCPU) system is not known. METHODS By means of spiking of hemolysate in pooled normal plasma, the effect of hemolysis on CPU, proCPU, and functional clot lysis assays was assessed. The influence of hemolysis on CPU generation during in vitro clot lysis was also evaluated. Cutoffs corresponding to maximal acceptable bias were determined. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION When active CPU was added to pooled plasma, a severe decrease in activity - up to 97.2% inhibition - was seen with increasing plasma concentrations of oxyhemoglobin (oxyHb) and the 10% cutoff value was found to be 0.3 g/L oxyHb. Using an activity-based assay, proCPU levels appeared to decrease gradually with increased hemolysis (maximal reduction of 19.5%) with a 10% cutoff value of 4.2 g/L oxyHb. The relative clot lysis time (CLT) showed a maximal negative bias of 68.5%. The reduction in CLT paralleled a significant reduction of the first CPU activity peak during clot lysis. The cutoff value for the CLT was 0.4 g/L oxyHb. In presence of thrombomodulin (TM), CLT+TM was not affected up to 8.0 g/L oxyHb. CONCLUSION These data indicate a clear inhibition of the CPU system because of hemolysis resulting in an increase of lysis in functional fibrinolysis assays. We were able to quantify the inhibitory effect and to propose cutoff values for every parameter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim C Mertens
- Laboratory of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Karen Claesen
- Laboratory of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Dorien Leenaerts
- Laboratory of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Yani Sim
- Laboratory of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Anne-Marie Lambeir
- Laboratory of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Dirk Hendriks
- Laboratory of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Barkhuizen M, Hoffmann M, Zöllner EWA, Erasmus RT, Zemlin AE. Case report: An index of suspicion in hyponatraemia. Biochem Med (Zagreb) 2019; 29:011002. [PMID: 30591819 PMCID: PMC6294159 DOI: 10.11613/bm.2019.011002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Serum indices can give valuable information and should be interpreted as a result. Lipaemia can influence results through different mechanisms, an important one being the electrolyte exclusion effect. A case of pseudohyponatraemia due to this is reported. A 15-year-old female with type 2 diabetes was seen for follow-up. Her biochemistry results revealed severe hyponatraemia of 118 mmol/L. Her capillary glucose concentration was 13.7 mmol/L with a corrected sodium of 122 mmol/L. A lipaemic index of 3+ (absolute value 1320) was noted, which was not flagged by the laboratory information system, as it was below the critical lipaemia limit for sodium determination. Repeated analysis of the same sample using a direct ion selective electrode method, the serum sodium concentration was 134 mmol/L (sodium corrected for glucose = 138 mmol/L). A triglyceride concentration was requested, which was severely raised (100.1 mmol/L). The electrolyte exclusion effect is an analytical phenomenon that causes falsely low electrolyte concentrations in the presence of severe lipaemia or hyperproteinaemia when using indirect analytical methods. These methods are used on many modern-day automated chemistry analysers and should be considered in a patient with asymptomatic hyponatraemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marizna Barkhuizen
- Division of Chemical Pathology, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) and University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mariza Hoffmann
- Division of Chemical Pathology, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) and University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ekkehard WA Zöllner
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rajiv T. Erasmus
- Division of Chemical Pathology, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) and University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Annalise E. Zemlin
- Division of Chemical Pathology, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) and University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Preanalytical challenges – time for solutions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 57:974-981. [DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2018-1334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) Working Group for the Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE) was originally established in 2013, with the main aims of (i) promoting the importance of quality in the preanalytical phase of the testing process, (ii) establishing best practices and providing guidance for critical activities in the preanalytical phase, (iii) developing and disseminating European surveys for exploring practices concerning preanalytical issues, (iv) organizing meetings, workshops, webinars or specific training courses on preanalytical issues. As education is a core activity of the WG-PRE, a series of European conferences have been organized every second year across Europe. This collective article summarizes the leading concepts expressed during the lectures of the fifth EFLM Preanalytical Conference “Preanalytical Challenges – Time for solutions”, held in Zagreb, 22–23 March, 2019. The topics covered include sample stability, preanalytical challenges in hematology testing, feces analysis, bio-banking, liquid profiling, mass spectrometry, next generation sequencing, laboratory automation, the importance of knowing and measuring the exact sampling time, technology aids in managing inappropriate utilization of laboratory resources, management of hemolyzed samples and preanalytical quality indicators.
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Lippi G, Lampus S, Danese E, Montagnana M, Salvagno GL. Values and stability of serum (or plasma) indices in uncentrifuged serum and lithium-heparin plasma. Diagnosis (Berl) 2018; 6:45-47. [DOI: 10.1515/dx-2018-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Lippi
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry , University Hospital of Verona, Piazzale LA Scuro , 37100 Verona , Italy
| | - Simona Lampus
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry , University of Verona , Verona , Italy
| | - Elisa Danese
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry , University of Verona , Verona , Italy
| | - Martina Montagnana
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry , University of Verona , Verona , Italy
| | - Gian Luca Salvagno
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry , University of Verona , Verona , Italy
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