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He Z, Dai H, Shen J, Huang Y, Liu J, Yan R, Zhang F, Yan S. Development and evaluation of a candidate reference measurement procedure for detecting 17α-hydroxyprogesterone in dried blood spots using isotope dilution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Anal Bioanal Chem 2024; 416:4635-4645. [PMID: 38949681 PMCID: PMC11294408 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-024-05411-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
17α-Hydroxyprogesterone (17α-OHP) quantification in dried blood spots (DBS) is essential for newborn screening for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), which is challenging due to its low physiological concentration. The high false-positive rates of immunoassays necessitate the development of more accurate methods. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) offers increased specificity and sensitivity, yet standardized procedures for 17α-OHP measurement are required for clinical application. A candidate reference measurement procedure (cRMP) using isotope dilution LC-MS/MS was developed for 17α-OHP quantification in DBS. By utilizing stable isotope-labeled D8-17α-OHP as an internal standard, the cRMP was optimized, covering sample preparation, calibration, and LC-MS/MS analysis. The method performance was validated across several parameters, including precision, accuracy, specificity, detection limits, and matrix effects. Clinical applicability was further assessed through the establishment of reference intervals for healthy newborns. The developed cRMP exhibited a linear range of 1.00 to 80.00 ng/mL for 17α-OHP, with detection and quantification limits of 0.14 ng/mL and 0.52 ng/mL, respectively. Inter- and intraday precision demonstrated coefficients of variation within 1.27 to 5.69%. The recovery rates and matrix effects were well within acceptable limits, ensuring method reliability. Clinical application showed distinct reference intervals for healthy newborns that were unaffected by sex but influenced by weight and gestational age. This method significantly enhances CAH diagnostic accuracy in newborns, providing a valuable tool for clinical laboratories and improving newborn screening program standardization and traceability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyun He
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563003, China
- College of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Haibing Dai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563003, China
- College of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Jian Shen
- Guangzhou Fenghua Biotech Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, 510730, China
| | - Yanjie Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Institute of Metrology, South China National Centre of Metrology, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Jinsong Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563003, China
- College of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Renqing Yan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563003, China
- College of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563003, China
- College of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Shengkai Yan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563003, China.
- College of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.
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2
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Thelen MHM, van Schrojenstein Lantman M. When bias becomes part of imprecision: how to use analytical performance specifications to determine acceptability of lot-lot variation and other sources of possibly unacceptable bias. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:1505-1511. [PMID: 38353157 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-1303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
ISO 15189 requires laboratories to estimate the uncertainty of their quantitative measurements and to maintain them within relevant performance specifications. Furthermore, it refers to ISO TS 20914 for instructions on how to estimate the uncertainty and what to take into consideration when communicating uncertainty of measurement with requesting clinicians. These instructions include the responsibility of laboratories to verify that bias is not larger than medically significant. If estimated to be larger than acceptable, such bias first needs to be eliminated or (temporarily) corrected for. In the latter case, the uncertainty of such correction becomes part of the estimation of the total measurement uncertainty. If small enough to be acceptable, bias becomes part of the long term within laboratory random variation. Sources of possible bias are (not limited to) changes in reagent or calibrator lot variation or calibration itself. In this paper we clarify how the rationale and mathematics from an EFLM WG ISO/A position paper on allowable between reagent lot variation can be applied to calculate whether bias can be accepted to become part of long-term imprecision. The central point of this rationale is to prevent the risk that requesting clinicians confuse changes in bias with changes in the steady state of their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc H M Thelen
- SKML, Foundation for Quality Assurance in Laboratory Medicine, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marith van Schrojenstein Lantman
- SKML, Foundation for Quality Assurance in Laboratory Medicine, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Result Laboratory for Clinical Chemistry, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
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3
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Panteghini M. What the Milan conference has taught us about analytical performance specification model definition and measurand allocation. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:1455-1461. [PMID: 38277658 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-1257] [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: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Analytical performance specifications (APS) represent the criteria that specify the quality required for laboratory test information to satisfy clinical needs. In 2014 the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) considered timely to update the topic of APS by organizing a conference in Milan in which some strategic concepts were proposed. Here I summarize the essential points representing the EFLM Strategic Conference heritage and discuss the approaches that will permit us to become more concrete, including roles and main actions expected from each of involved stakeholders for contributing a quantum leap forward in the way of practicality of Milan consensus about APS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Panteghini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
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4
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Panteghini M. Analytical performance specifications for combined uncertainty budget in the implementation of metrological traceability. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:1497-1504. [PMID: 38311825 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-1325] [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: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
In addition to the correct implementation of calibration traceability, the definition and fulfillment of maximum allowable measurement uncertainty (MAU) are essential in assuring that laboratory measurements are clinically usable. Across the entire calibration hierarchy, three major contributors to the measurement uncertainty (MU) budget are identified, starting with the higher-order reference providers, extending through the in vitro diagnostic (IVD) manufacturers and their processes for assigning calibrator values, and ending with medical laboratories generating the random variability of results reported to clinicians. To understand if it is possible to achieve MAU and, consequently, to fix the possible drawbacks, the definition of combined MU budget limits across the entire calibration hierarchy has a central role. In particular, quality specifications for MU of reference and commercial calibrator materials should be defined according to the MAU on clinical samples. All involved stakeholders (i.e., higher-order reference providers, IVD manufacturers, medical laboratories) should be prepared to improve their performance whenever the clinical application of the test is made questionable by the failure to achieve MAU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Panteghini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
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Borrillo F, Panteghini M. State-of-the-art model for derivation of analytical performance specifications: how to define the highest level of analytical performance technically achievable. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:1490-1496. [PMID: 38353168 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-1286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
To be accurate and equivalent among assays, laboratory results should be traceable to higher-order references and their quality should fulfill maximum allowable measurement uncertainty (MU) as defined to fit the intended clinical use. Accordingly, laboratory professionals should estimate and validate MU of performed tests using appropriate analytical performance specifications (APS). Current consensus supports the derivation of APS by using one of the three models established by the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) Strategic Conference held in Milan in 2014. It is recognized that some models are better suited for certain measurands than for others and the attention should be primarily directed towards their biological and clinical characteristics. Among others, model 3 should reflect the state of the art of the measurements that can be defined as the best analytical performance that is technically achievable. Taking serum C-reactive protein and ferritin as examples, here we describe the theoretical premises and the experimental protocol to be used to derive APS for MU when a measurand is allocated to this model. Although the model lacks a direct relationship with clinical outcomes, useful information about the in vitro diagnostic medical device performance and the average quality of provided results may be obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Bydgoszcz, Poland
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6
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Cheng W, Zhou Z, Yan S, Jiang Y, Yang W, Shen K, Pang R. Practical considerations on redesigning internal quality control process to verify the traceability of clinical results for decision-making. J Med Biochem 2024; 43:626-630. [PMID: 39139151 PMCID: PMC11318874 DOI: 10.5937/jomb0-45468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Traceability is an important tool in the harmonization and standardization of reporting laboratory results, making them comparable across measurement systems. Driven by International Standardization Organization (ISO) 15189 accreditation requirements, medical laboratories have entered the era of metrological traceability. Although calibrators are a key component in the entire metrological traceability system, there is controversy over internal quality control (IQC) materials. It has been proposed that trueness materials supplied by the system's manufacturer with metrological traceability can be used to confirm that the performance of the measuring system is properly unbiased. This article focuses on the implementation challenges and operational hurdles of applying traceability concepts to IQC materials for trueness verification in medical laboratories regarding the most recent 2022 edition of ISO 15189 standard requirements for IQC and metrological traceability. There are practical considerations concerning the acquiring of IQC materials. We must acknowledge the limitations and restrictions that manufacturers and laboratories face before the recommendations can be applied in routine practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhiwei Zhou
- Qualab Biotech. Co., Ltd., Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Shengkai Yan
- Zunyi Medical University, The Affiliated Hospital, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi, P.R. China
| | - Ye Jiang
- Qualab Biotech. Co., Ltd., Shanghai, P.R. China
| | | | - Kunxue Shen
- Qualab Biotech. Co., Ltd., Shanghai, P.R. China
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van Schrojenstein Lantman M, Grobben R, van Herwaarden AE, van Berkel M, Schaap J, Thelen M. To rule-in, or not to falsely rule-out, that is the question: evaluation of hs-cTnT EQA performance in light of the ESC-2020 guideline. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:1158-1166. [PMID: 38353154 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-1226] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To accurately evaluate non-ST-elevated acute cardiac syndrome (NSTE-ACS), the quality of high-sensitive cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) assays is of vital importance. The 2020 revision of the NSTE-ACS guideline includes clinical decision-limits (CDL's) to both rule-in and rule-out NSTE-ACS for most commercially available platforms, providing both 0/1 h and 0/2 h delta limits. Our study evaluated whether laboratories are able to meet the analytical performance specifications for imprecision (APS) for hs-cTnT. METHODS Results from external quality assurance (EQA) in commutable samples were used to evaluate the current and historic performance of analyzers. The performance of analyzers that either passed or failed to comply with 0/1 h-APS were used on a real-world dataset of first hs-cTnT-values to simulate 10.000 samples of t=0, t=1 and t=2 h values with multiple delta's for all relevant CDL's. We compared the simulated values to the input values to obtain the percentage of aberrant results simulated. RESULTS The majority of analyzers complies with APS for rule-in in 2022 (0/1 h: 90.4 % and 0/2 h: 100 %), compliance for the 0/1 h rule-out is still far from optimal (0/1 h: 30.7 %, 0/2 h: 75.4 %), with improving compliance over the past years (rule-in p=<0.0001, rule-out p=0.011, χ2). Whilst 0/1 h-APS-passing analyzers have a minute risk to falsely rule-out patients whom should be ruled-in (0.0001 %), failing performance increases this risk to 2.1 % upon using 0/1 h CDL's. Here, adopting 0/2 h CDL's is favorable (0.01 %). CONCLUSIONS Laboratories that fail to meet hs-cTnT 0/1 h-APS should improve their performance to the required and achievable level. Until performance is reached clinics should adopt the 0/2 h CDL's.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marith van Schrojenstein Lantman
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Stichting Kwaliteitsbewaking Medische Laboratoriumdiagnostiek (SKML), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Result Laboratorium, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Remco Grobben
- Department of Cardiology, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | | | - Miranda van Berkel
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Schaap
- Department of Cardiology, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
- Dutch Network for Cardiovascular Research (WCN), Dutch Network for Cardiovascular Research (WCN), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marc Thelen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Stichting Kwaliteitsbewaking Medische Laboratoriumdiagnostiek (SKML), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Result Laboratorium, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
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8
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Çubukçu HC, Vanstapel F, Thelen M, van Schrojenstein Lantman M, Bernabeu-Andreu FA, Meško Brguljan P, Milinkovic N, Linko S, Panteghini M, Boursier G. APS calculator: a data-driven tool for setting outcome-based analytical performance specifications for measurement uncertainty using specific clinical requirements and population data. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:597-607. [PMID: 37978287 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES According to ISO 15189:2022, analytical performance specifications (APS) should relate to intended clinical use and impact on patient care. Therefore, we aimed to develop a web application for laboratory professionals to calculate APS based on a simulation of the impact of measurement uncertainty (MU) on the outcome using the chosen decision limits, agreement thresholds, and data of the population of interest. METHODS We developed the "APS Calculator" allowing users to upload and select data of concern, specify decision limits and agreement thresholds, and conduct simulations to determine APS for MU. The simulation involved categorizing original measurand concentrations, generating measured (simulated) results by introducing different degrees of MU, and recategorizing measured concentrations based on clinical decision limits and acceptable clinical misclassification rates. The agreements between original and simulated result categories were assessed, and values that met or exceeded user-specified agreement thresholds that set goals for the between-category agreement were considered acceptable. The application generates contour plots of agreement rates and corresponding MU values. We tested the application using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data, with decision limits from relevant guidelines. RESULTS We determined APS for MU of six measurands (blood total hemoglobin, plasma fasting glucose, serum total and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and total folate) to demonstrate the potential of the application to generate APS. CONCLUSIONS The developed data-driven web application offers a flexible tool for laboratory professionals to calculate APS for MU using their chosen decision limits and agreement thresholds, and the data of the population of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikmet Can Çubukçu
- General Directorate of Health Services, Rare Diseases Department, Turkish Ministry of Health, Ankara, Türkiye
- Hacettepe University Institute of Informatics, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Florent Vanstapel
- Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Public Health, Biomedical Sciences Group, Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marc Thelen
- SKML, Foundation for Quality Assurance in Laboratory Medicine, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marith van Schrojenstein Lantman
- SKML, Foundation for Quality Assurance in Laboratory Medicine, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Result Laboratory for Clinical Chemistry, Amphia Hospital Breda, Breda, The Netherlands
| | | | - Pika Meško Brguljan
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Clinic for Respiratory and Allergic Deseases, Golnik, Slovenia
| | - Neda Milinkovic
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Mauro Panteghini
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Guilaine Boursier
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cytogenomics, Rare Diseases and Autoinflammatory Unit, CHU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Borrillo F, Capoferri A, Rovegno L, Panteghini M. Closed analyser lids do not reduce the measurement uncertainty of serum total carbon dioxide. Ann Clin Biochem 2024; 61:154-155. [PMID: 37978867 DOI: 10.1177/00045632231216598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Leila Rovegno
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milano, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland
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10
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Badrick T, Giannoli JM. Managing the Quality Control of multiple instruments. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:e62-e64. [PMID: 37632312 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Tony Badrick
- Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia Quality Assurance Programs, NSW, Sydney, Australia
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Rovegno L, Civera E, Infusino I, Panteghini M. State of the art of measurement uncertainty of serum ferritin. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:e6-e8. [PMID: 37466239 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Rovegno
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Civera
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilenia Infusino
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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12
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Bianchi G, Frusciante E, Colombo G, Infusino I, Aloisio E, Panteghini M. Validation of metrological traceability of the new generation of Abbott Alinity alkaline phosphatase assay. Clin Chem Lab Med 2024; 62:280-287. [PMID: 37614121 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0553] [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: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Recently, Abbott Diagnostics marketed a new generation of Alinity enzyme assays, introducing a multiparametric calibrator [Consolidated Chemistry Calibrator (ConCC)] in place of or in addition to factor-based calibrations. For alkaline phosphatase (ALP), both calibration options are offered, i.e., with ConCC (ALP2) and with an experimental calibration factor (ALP2F). Both options are declared traceable to the 2011 IFCC reference measurement procedure (RMP). Before to replace the old generation (ALP1) with the new one, we decided to validate the trueness of ALP2/ALP2F. METHODS Three approaches were employed: (a) preliminary comparison on 48 native frozen serum samples with ALP1, of which traceability to RMP was previously successfully verified; (b) examination of three banked serum pools (BSP) with values assigned by RMP; (c) direct comparison with RMP on a set of 24 fresh serum samples. Bias estimation and regression studies were performed, and the standard measurement uncertainty associated with ALP measurements on clinical samples (uresult) was estimated and compared with established analytical performance specifications (APS). ConCC commutability was also assessed. RESULTS A positive proportional bias was found with both ALP2 and ALP2F when compared to ALP1 and RMP. This positive bias was confirmed on BSP: in average, +13.1 % for ALP2 and +10.0 % for ALP2F, respectively. uresult were 13.28 % for ALP2 and 10.04 % for ALP2F, both not fulfilling the minimum APS of 4.0 %. Furthermore, ConCC was not commutable with clinical samples. CONCLUSIONS Our results unearth problems in the correct implementation of traceability of Alinity ALP2/ALP2F, with the risk for the new assay to be unfit for clinical purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Bianchi
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Erika Frusciante
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Colombo
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilenia Infusino
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Aloisio
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Pereira WDP, Carvalheira L, Lopes JM, Aguiar PFD, Moreira RM, Oliveira ECD. Data reconciliation connected to guard bands to set specification limits related to risk assessment for radiopharmaceutical activity. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22992. [PMID: 38125475 PMCID: PMC10731080 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiopharmaceuticals have been used to diagnose several diseases, particularly because the procedure is non-invasive. However, it is important that the correct amount of radiopharmaceutical is used to avoid inaccurate diagnostic results and suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. The amount of the radiopharmaceutical is measured when produced (by the supplier) and a second time (by the receiver), before it's use. When measured at the receiver, the result is corrected for its normal radioactivity decay. Even then, it is possible that both measurements should be considered nominal different or even statistically different when compared through various statistical tools. This research combines two innovative techniques in the field of clinical metrology. The first technique is data reconciliation, which not only enhances measurement accuracy but also reduces measurement uncertainty. The second technique involves using uncertainty information to establish specification limits for compliance assessments. In this way, our proposal aimed to minimize the risk of making incorrect decisions regarding the conformity of the concentration of radiopharmaceutical activity, that is, rejecting an item or batch that is within specification or accepting an item or batch that is outside of specification. A spreadsheet, based on these metrology fundamentals, is available to help the user with the calculations, presenting numerical and graphical results for some common radioisotopes. Reliable specification limits can be calculated and used to determine if the radiopharmaceutical is in accordance with its proposed application.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luciana Carvalheira
- Argonauta Reactor Service, Nuclear Engineering Institute, R. Hélio de Almeida 75, 21941-614, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - José Marques Lopes
- Earth and Environmental Physics Department, Physics Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Campus Universitário de Ondina, 40210-340, Salvador, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Geochemistry, Petroleum and Environment (POSPETRO), Federal University of Bahia, Av. Milton Santos s/n°, Salvador, 40170-110, Brazil
| | - Paula Fernandes de Aguiar
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Chemistry Institute, Avenida Athos da Silveira Ramos 149, 21941-909, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rosana Medeiros Moreira
- National Institute of Technology, Av. Venezuela 82 20081-312, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (INMETRO), Av. Nossa Senhora das Graças 50, 25250-020, Duque de Caxias, Brazil
| | - Elcio Cruz de Oliveira
- Postgraduate Programme in Metrology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, R. Marquês de São Vicente 225, 22451-900, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Logistics, Operational Planning and Control, Measurement and Product Inventory Management, PETROBRAS S.A., Av. Henrique Valadares 28, 20231-030, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Wheeler SE, Blasutig IM, Dabla PK, Giannoli JM, Vassault A, Lin J, Cendejas KA, Perret-Liaudet A, Bais R, Thomas A, Amann EP, Meng QH. Quality standards and internal quality control practices in medical laboratories: an IFCC global survey of member societies. Clin Chem Lab Med 2023; 61:2094-2101. [PMID: 37327359 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0492] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The trueness and precision of clinical laboratory results are ensured through total quality management systems (TQM), which primarily include internal quality control (IQC) practices. However, quality practices vary globally. To understand the current global state of IQC practice and IQC management in relation to TQM the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) Task Force on Global Laboratory Quality (TF-GLQ) conducted a survey of IFCC member countries on IQC practices and management. METHODS The survey included 16 questions regarding IQC and laboratory TQM practices and was distributed to IFCC full and affiliate member countries (n=110). A total of 46 (41.8 %) responses were received from all regions except North America. RESULTS Of the responding countries, 78.3 % (n=36) had legislative regulations or accreditation requirements governing medical laboratory quality standards. However, implementation was not mandatory in 46.7 % (n=21) of responding countries. IQC practices varied considerably with 57.1 % (n=28) of respondents indicating that they run 2 levels of IQC, 66.7 % (n=24) indicating they run IQC every 24 h and 66.7 % (n=28) using assay manufacturer IQC material sources. Only 29.3 % (n=12) of respondents indicated that every medical laboratory in their country has written IQC policies and procedures. By contrast, 97.6 % (n=40) of responding countries indicated they take corrective action and result remediation in the event of IQC failure. CONCLUSIONS The variability in TQM and IQC practices highlights the need for more formal programs and education to standardize and improve TQM in medical laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Wheeler
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Ivan M Blasutig
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- Division of Biochemistry, CHEO, Ottawa, Canada
- Eastern Ontario Regional Laboratory Association, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Pradeep Kumar Dabla
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biochemistry, G.B. Pant Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research, Associated Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, India
| | - Jean-Marc Giannoli
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- Technical Direction Biogroup and Labac, Lyon, France
| | - Anne Vassault
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- University Paris City, France
| | - Ji Lin
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- Core Diagnostics, Abbott Labs, Lake Forest, IL, USA
| | - Kandace A Cendejas
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- Bio-Rad Laboratories, Quality Systems, Hercules, CA, USA
| | - Armand Perret-Liaudet
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Renze Bais
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- Rbaisconsulting, Australia
| | - Annette Thomas
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- Weqas, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | - Egon P Amann
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- University of Applied Sciences, Hamm-Lippstadt, Hamm, Germany
- Consultant in Life Sciences, Quality Systems & Clinical Chemistry, Marburg, Germany
| | - Qing H Meng
- International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Task Force on Global Lab Quality, Milan, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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15
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Thelen MHM, van Schrojenstein Lantman M, Boursier G, Vanstapel F, Panteghini M. In reply to: Limitations in using the EFLM WG-A/ISO approach for assessment of reagent lot variability. Clin Chem Lab Med 2023; 61:e218-e220. [PMID: 37261942 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marc H M Thelen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Foundation for Quality Assurance in Laboratory Medicine (SKML), Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Guilaine Boursier
- Department of Genetics, Rare Diseases and Personalized, Medicine Rare Diseases and Autoinflammatory Unit, CHU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Florent Vanstapel
- Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Public Health, Laboratory Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Group, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Luigi Sacco", Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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16
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Wang H, Chen Y, Wang L, Liu Q, Yang S, Wang C. Advancing herbal medicine: enhancing product quality and safety through robust quality control practices. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1265178. [PMID: 37818188 PMCID: PMC10561302 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1265178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
This manuscript provides an in-depth review of the significance of quality control in herbal medication products, focusing on its role in maintaining efficiency and safety. With a historical foundation in traditional medicine systems, herbal remedies have gained widespread popularity as natural alternatives to conventional treatments. However, the increasing demand for these products necessitates stringent quality control measures to ensure consistency and safety. This comprehensive review explores the importance of quality control methods in monitoring various aspects of herbal product development, manufacturing, and distribution. Emphasizing the need for standardized processes, the manuscript delves into the detection and prevention of contaminants, the authentication of herbal ingredients, and the adherence to regulatory standards. Additionally, it highlights the integration of traditional knowledge and modern scientific approaches in achieving optimal quality control outcomes. By emphasizing the role of quality control in herbal medicine, this manuscript contributes to promoting consumer trust, safeguarding public health, and fostering the responsible use of herbal medication products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongting Wang
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Screening and Re-evaluation of Active Compounds of Herbal Medicines in Southern Anhui, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center for Polysaccharide Drugs, Anhui Innovative Center for Drug Basic Research of Metabolic Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | | | | | | | | | - Cunqin Wang
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Screening and Re-evaluation of Active Compounds of Herbal Medicines in Southern Anhui, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center for Polysaccharide Drugs, Anhui Innovative Center for Drug Basic Research of Metabolic Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
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17
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Borrillo F, Panteghini M. Current performance of C-reactive protein determination and derivation of quality specifications for its measurement uncertainty. Clin Chem Lab Med 2023; 61:1552-1557. [PMID: 36773318 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
From External Quality Assessment data, current harmonization of CRP measuring systems appears to be satisfactory, the inter-assay CV being well below 10%. The inter-method variability is even better (close to 3%) when the widely used measuring systems are compared at CRP concentrations employed as cut-off for detecting sub-clinical infection (i.e., 10.0 mg/L) and measurement variability estimated, according to ISO 20914:2019 Technical Specification, from the intermediate within-lab reproducibility of 6-month consecutive measurement data. According to the state-of-the-art model (which is better suited for CRP), the maximum allowable measurement uncertainty (MAU) for CRP measurement on clinical samples with 10.0 mg/L concentrations is 3.76% (desirable quality). As measurement uncertainty (MU) of the only available reference material (ERM-DA474/IFCC) is ∼3%, to fulfil desirable MAU on clinical samples, IVD manufacturers should work to keep the contribution of remaining MU sources (commercial calibrator and intermediate within-lab reproducibility) lower than 2.3%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Borrillo
- UOC Patologia Clinica, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milano, Italy
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- UOC Patologia Clinica, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milano, Italy
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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18
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Panteghini M. Evaluating and monitoring analytical quality by internal quality control. Clin Biochem 2023; 118:110594. [PMID: 37271492 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2023.110594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Panteghini
- Research Center for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milano, Italy.
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19
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Luo Y, Pehrsson M, Langholm L, Karsdal M, Bay-Jensen AC, Sun S. Lot-to-Lot Variance in Immunoassays-Causes, Consequences, and Solutions. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13111835. [PMID: 37296687 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13111835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunoassays, which have gained popularity in clinical practice and modern biomedical research, play an increasingly important role in quantifying various analytes in biological samples. Despite their high sensitivity and specificity, as well as their ability to analyze multiple samples in a single run, immunoassays are plagued by the problem of lot-to-lot variance (LTLV). LTLV negatively affects assay accuracy, precision, and specificity, leading to considerable uncertainty in reported results. Therefore, maintaining consistency in technical performance over time presents a challenge in reproducing immunoassays. In this article, we share our two-decade-long experience and delve into the reasons for and locations of LTLV, as well as explore methods to mitigate its effects. Our investigation identifies potential contributing factors, including quality fluctuation in critical raw materials and deviations in manufacturing processes. These findings offer valuable insights to developers and researchers working with immunoassays, emphasizing the importance of considering lot-to-lot variance in assay development and application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunyun Luo
- Biomarkers and Research, Nordic Bioscience, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - Martin Pehrsson
- Biomarkers and Research, Nordic Bioscience, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - Lasse Langholm
- Biomarkers and Research, Nordic Bioscience, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - Morten Karsdal
- Biomarkers and Research, Nordic Bioscience, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | | | - Shu Sun
- Biomarkers and Research, Nordic Bioscience, 2730 Herlev, Denmark
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20
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Borrillo F, Pasqualetti S, Panteghini M. Measurement Uncertainty of Thyroid Function Tests on a Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay System Needs to Be Improved. J Appl Lab Med 2023; 8:420-422. [PMID: 36645382 DOI: 10.1093/jalm/jfac132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Borrillo
- Research Center for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Pasqualetti
- Research Center for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Research Center for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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21
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Krintus M, Panteghini M. Judging the clinical suitability of analytical performance of cardiac troponin assays. Clin Chem Lab Med 2023; 61:801-810. [PMID: 36798043 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2023-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
New millennium diagnostic criteria for acute myocardial infarction precipitated a revolutionary shift from an approach based primarily on electrocardiography and clinical symptoms to a strategy based on biomarkers, and preferably cardiac troponins (cTn) I and T. In the last 20 years, clinical recommendations have strengthened the role of cTn and led to the development of highly sensitive (hs-cTn) assays, which are now leading players in all current clinical practice guidelines. To optimize the clinical use of these hs-cTn assays, focus on their analytical aspects has become increasingly important, emphasizing the need for the establishment of suitable analytical performance by the definition and implementation of appropriate specifications. An accurate estimate of measurement uncertainty, together with the acquisition of the highest analytical quality when very low concentrations of hs-cTn are measured, are essential requirements and should represent a practical laboratory standard in assuring optimal clinical use. Additional goals for further improving the quality of laboratory information should be the establishment of robust data concerning biological variation of cTn and the resolution of practical challenges opposed to the harmonization of cTn I results obtained by differing commercial measuring systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Krintus
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Bydgoszcz, Torun, Poland
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
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22
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Braga F, Pasqualetti S, Borrillo F, Capoferri A, Chibireva M, Rovegno L, Panteghini M. Definition and application of performance specifications for measurement uncertainty of 23 common laboratory tests: linking theory to daily practice. Clin Chem Lab Med 2023; 61:213-223. [PMID: 36282875 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Laboratories should estimate and validate [using analytical performance specifications (APS)] the measurement uncertainty (MU) of performed tests. It is therefore essential to appropriately define APS for MU, but also to provide a perspective on suitability of the practical application of these APS. In this study, 23 commonly ordered measurands were allocated to the models defined during the 2014 EFLM Strategic Conference to derive APS for MU. Then, we checked if the performance of commercial measuring systems used in our laboratory may achieve them. Most measurands (serum alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, γ-glutamyltransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, pancreatic amylase, total proteins, immunoglobulin G, A, M, magnesium, urate, and prostate-specific antigen, plasma homocysteine, and blood red and white cells) were allocated to the biological variation (BV) model and desirable APS were defined accordingly (2.65%, 4.75%, 7.25%, 4.45%, 2.60%, 3.15%, 1.30%, 2.20%, 2.50%, 2.95%, 1.44%, 4.16%, 3.40%, 3.52%, 1.55%, and 5.65%, respectively). Desirable APS for serum total cholesterol (3.00%) and urine albumin (9.00%) were derived using outcome-based model. Lacking outcome-based information, serum albumin, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood platelets were temporarily reallocated to BV model, the corresponding desirable APS being 1.25%, 2.84%, 9.90%, and 4.85%, respectively. A mix between the two previous models was employed for serum digoxin, with a 6.00% desirable APS. In daily practice by using our laboratory systems, 16 tests fulfilled desirable and five minimum APS, while two (serum albumin and plasma homocysteine) exceeded goals, needing improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Braga
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Pasqualetti
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Alessia Capoferri
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mariia Chibireva
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Leila Rovegno
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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23
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Panteghini M. Redesigning the surveillance of in vitro diagnostic medical devices and of medical laboratory performance by quality control in the traceability era. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 61:759-768. [PMID: 36542481 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-1257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
IVD manufacturers have total responsibility in terms of the traceability of marketed in vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVD-MD). This includes the provision of a quality control (QC) material as a part of the measuring system, suitable for traceability verification and alignment surveillance by end-users in daily practice. This material [to be used for the internal QC (IQC) component I as described in this paper] should have unbiased target values and an acceptability range corresponding to analytical performance specifications (APS) for suitable (expanded) measurement uncertainty (MU) on clinical samples. On the other hand, medical laboratories (by the IQC component II as described in this paper) should improve the IQC process and its judging criteria to establish a direct link between their performance, estimated as MU of provided results, and APS defined according to recommended models to apply corrective actions if the performance is worsening with the risk to jeopardize the clinical validity of test results. The participation to external quality assessment (EQA) programs that meet specific metrological criteria is also central to the evaluation of performance of IVD-MDs and of medical laboratories in terms of harmonization and clinical suitability of their measurements. In addition to the use of commutable materials, in this type of EQA it is necessary to assign values to them with selected reference procedures and to define and apply maximum allowable APS to substantiate the suitability of laboratory measurements in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Panteghini
- Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME) , University of Milan , Milano , Italy
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24
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Plebani M. Control interno de la calidad y garantía externa de la calidad: un gran pasado abre el camino a un brillante futuro. ADVANCES IN LABORATORY MEDICINE 2022; 3:218-220. [PMCID: PMC10197387 DOI: 10.1515/almed-2022-0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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25
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Plebani M. Internal quality control and external quality assurance: a great past opens the way to a bright future. ADVANCES IN LABORATORY MEDICINE 2022; 3:215-220. [PMID: 37362140 PMCID: PMC10197377 DOI: 10.1515/almed-2022-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Plebani
- Honorary Professor of Clinical Biochemistry and Clinical Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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26
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Ricós C, Fernandez-Calle P, Perich C, Westgard JO. Internal quality control - past, present and future trends. ADVANCES IN LABORATORY MEDICINE 2022; 3:243-262. [PMID: 37362142 PMCID: PMC10197334 DOI: 10.1515/almed-2022-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Objectives This paper offers an historical view, through a summary of the internal quality control (IQC) models used from second half of twentyth century to those performed today and wants to give a projection on how the future should be addressed. Methods The material used in this work study are all papers collected referring IQC procedures. The method used is the critical analysis of the different IQC models with a discussion on the weak and the strong points of each model. Results First models were based on testing control materials and using multiples of the analytical procedure standard deviation as control limits. Later, these limits were substituted by values related with the intended use of test, mainly derived from biological variation. For measurands with no available control material methods based on replicate analysis of patient' samples were developed and have been improved recently; also, the sigma metrics that relates the quality desired with the laboratory performance has resulted in a highly efficient quality control model. Present tendency is to modulate IQC considering the workload and the impact of analytical failure in the patent harm. Conclusions This paper remarks the strong points of IQC models, indicates the weak points that should be eliminated from practice and gives a future projection on how to promote patient safety through laboratory examinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Ricós
- External Quality Programs Committee and Analytical Quality Commission, Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pilar Fernandez-Calle
- External Quality Programs Committee and Analytical Quality Commission, Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQC), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Perich
- External Quality Programs Committee and Analytical Quality Commission, Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEQC), Barcelona, Spain
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27
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Panteghini M. The simple reproducibility of a measurement result does not equal its overall measurement uncertainty. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:e221-e222. [PMID: 35802464 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Panteghini
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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28
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Plebani M, Gillery P, Greaves RF, Lackner KJ, Lippi G, Melichar B, Payne DA, Schlattmann P. Rethinking internal quality control: the time is now. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:1316-1317. [PMID: 35766232 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Plebani
- Medical School, University of Padova-Italy, Padova, Italy
| | - Philippe Gillery
- Laboratory of Biochemistry-Pharmacology-Toxicology, University Hospital of Reims, Reims, France
| | - Ronda F Greaves
- Biochemical Genetics, Victorian Clinical Genetics Services Ltd, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Karl J Lackner
- Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Mainz, Germany
| | - Giuseppe Lippi
- Section of Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | | | - Peter Schlattmann
- Computer and Data Sciences, University Hospital Jena, Institute of Medical Statistics, Jena, Germany
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29
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Westgard JO, Bayat H, Westgard SA. How to evaluate fixed clinical QC limits vs. risk-based SQC strategies. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:e199-e201. [PMID: 35694816 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- James O Westgard
- University of Wisconsin School of Public Health, Madison WI, USA.,Westgard QC, Inc., Madison WI, USA
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30
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Plebani M. Quality in laboratory medicine and the Journal: walking together. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 61:713-720. [PMID: 35969689 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Quality in laboratory medicine is defined as "an unfinished journey", as the more essential the laboratory information provided, the more assured its quality should be. In the past decades, the Journal Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine has provided a valuable forum for garnering new insights into the analytical and extra-analytical phases of the testing cycle, and for debating crucial aspects of quality in clinical laboratories. The impressive number of papers published in the Journal is testimony to the efforts made by laboratory professionals, national and international scientific societies and federations in the quest to continuously improve upon the pre-, intra- and post-analytical steps of the testing cycle, thus enhancing the quality of laboratory information. The paper appearing in this special issue summarizes the most important and interesting contributions published in the Journal, thus updating our knowledge on quality in laboratory medicine and offering further stimuli to identify the most valuable measures of quality in clinical laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Plebani
- Clinical Biochemistry and Clinical Molecular Biology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA
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31
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Panteghini M. Reply to Westgard et al.: 'Keep your eyes wide … as the present now will later be past'. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:e202-e203. [PMID: 35786491 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Panteghini
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), Università degli Studi di Milan, Italy
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32
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Caruso S, Szoke D, Panteghini M. 'Penelope test': a practical instrument for checking appropriateness of laboratory tests. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:1342-1349. [PMID: 35785546 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In medical laboratories, the appropriateness challenge directly revolves around the laboratory test and its proper selection, data analysis, and result reporting. However, laboratories have also a role in the appropriate management of those phases of total testing process (TTP) that traditionally are not under their direct control. So that, the laboratory obligation to act along the entire TTP is now widely accepted in order to achieve better care management. Because of the large number of variables involved in the overall TTP structure, it is difficult to monitor appropriateness in real time. However, it is possible to retrospectively reconstruct the body of the clinical process involved in the management of a specific laboratory test to track key passages that may be defective or incomplete in terms of appropriateness. Here we proposed an appropriateness check-list scheme along the TTP chain to be potentially applied to any laboratory test. This scheme consists of a series of questions that healthcare professionals should answer to achieve laboratory test appropriateness. In the system, even a single lacking answer may compromise the integrity of all appropriateness evaluation process as the inability to answer may involve a significant deviation from the optimal trajectory, which compromise the test appropriateness and the quality of subsequent steps. Using two examples of the check-list application, we showed that the proposed instrument may offer an objective help to avoid inappropriate use of laboratory tests in an integrated way involving both laboratory professionals and user clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Caruso
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Dominika Szoke
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
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van Schrojenstein Lantman M, Çubukçu HC, Boursier G, Panteghini M, Bernabeu-Andreu FA, Milinkovic N, Mesko Brguljan P, Linko S, Brugnoni D, O'Kelly R, Kroupis C, Lohmander M, Šprongl L, Vanstapel F, Thelen M. An approach for determining allowable between reagent lot variation. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:681-688. [PMID: 35172415 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Clinicians trust medical laboratories to provide reliable results on which they rely for clinical decisions. Laboratories fulfil their responsibility for accurate and consistent results by utilizing an arsenal of approaches, ranging from validation and verification experiments to daily quality control procedures. All these procedures verify, on different moments, that the results of a certain examination procedure have analytical performance characteristics (APC) that meet analytical performance specifications (APS) set for a particular intended use. The APC can in part be determined by estimating the measurement uncertainty component under conditions of within-laboratory precision (uRw), which comprises all components influencing the measurement uncertainty of random sources. To maintain the adequacy of their measurement procedures, laboratories need to distinguish aspects that are manageable vs. those that are not. One of the aspects that may influence uRw is the momentary significant bias caused by shifts in reagent and/or calibrator lots, which, when accepted or unnoticed, become a factor of the APC. In this paper, we postulate a model for allocating a part of allowable uRw to between-reagent lot variation, based on the need for long-term consistency of the measurement variability for that specific measurand. The allocation manages the ratio between short-term and long-term variation and indicates laboratories when to reject or correct certain variations due to reagent lots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marith van Schrojenstein Lantman
- Result Laboratory for Clinical Chemistry, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hikmet Can Çubukçu
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Ankara University Stem Cell Institute, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Guilaine Boursier
- Dept of Genetics, Rare Diseases and Personalized Medicine Rare Diseases and Autoinflammatory Unit, CHU Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Luigi Sacco", and Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Neda Milinkovic
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Pika Mesko Brguljan
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Clinic for Respiratory and Allergic Diseases, Golnik, Slovenia
| | | | - Duilio Brugnoni
- Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Ruth O'Kelly
- Association of Clinical Biochemists in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Christos Kroupis
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Medical School, Attikon University General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Haidari, Greece
| | - Maria Lohmander
- Regional Laboratoriemedicin, Sahlgrenska Universitetssjukhuset, Trollhättan, Sweden
| | - Luděk Šprongl
- Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Kladno, Kladno, Czech Republic
| | - Florent Vanstapel
- Belgium and Department of Public Health, Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Leuven, Biomedical Sciences Group, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marc Thelen
- Result Laboratory for Clinical Chemistry, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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34
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Pasqualetti S, Carnevale A, Dolci A, Panteghini M. A step towards optimal efficiency of HbA 1c measurement as a first-line laboratory test: the TOP-HOLE (Towards OPtimal glycoHemOgLobin tEsting) project. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:441-450. [PMID: 35041303 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2021-1249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The TOP-HOLE (Towards OPtimal glycoHemOgLobin tEsting) project aimed to validate the HbA1c enzymatic method on the Abbott Alinity c platform and to implement the HbA1c testing process on the total laboratory automation (TLA) system of our institution. METHODS Three different measuring systems were employed: Architect c4000 stand-alone (s-a), Alinity c s-a, and Alinity c TLA. Eight frozen whole blood samples, IFCC value-assigned, were used for checking trueness. A comparison study testing transferability of HbA1c results from Architect to Alinity was also performed. The alignment of Alinity TLA vs. s-a was verified and the measurement uncertainty (MU) estimated according to ISO 20914:2019. Turnaround time (TAT) and full time equivalent (FTE) were used as efficiency indicators. RESULTS For HbA1c concentrations covering cut-offs adopted in clinical setting, the bias for both Architect and Alinity s-a was negligible. When compared with Architect, Alinity showed a mean positive bias of 0.54 mmol/mol, corresponding to a mean difference of 0.87%. A perfect alignment of Alinity TLA to the Alinity s-a was shown, and a MU of 1.58% was obtained, widely fulfilling the desirable 3.0% goal. After the full automation of HbA1c testing, 90% of results were released with a maximum TAT of 1 h, 0.30 FTE resource was also saved. CONCLUSIONS The traceability of Alinity HbA1c enzymatic assay to the IFCC reference system was correctly implemented. We successfully completed the integration of the HbA1c testing on our TLA system, without worsening the optimal analytical performance. The shift of HbA1c testing from s-a mode to TLA significantly decreased TAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Pasqualetti
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Alberto Dolci
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences 'Luigi Sacco', University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences 'Luigi Sacco', University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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35
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Pasqualetti S, Borrillo F, Rovegno L, Panteghini M. Pancreatic lipase: why laboratory community does not take enough care of this clinically important test? Clin Chem Lab Med 2021; 59:1914-1920. [PMID: 34533007 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2021-0850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although being the recommended laboratory test to diagnose acute pancreatitis, serum pancreatic lipase (LIP) is among the poorly standardized laboratory tests, and laboratory stakeholders often appear to not take enough care of the quality of its measurements. Here we discuss some important issues that, if not correctly managed and solved, make misdiagnosis of acute pancreatitis by using serum LIP a real possibility. First, the current unavailability of a suitable higher-order reference material to be used as common calibrator should be filled up to definitively improve the inter-method bias. Second, knowledge of the analytical characteristics that may explain the defective performance of LIP assays should be deepened. IVD manufacturers should be more explicit in providing this information, including description of their internal protocol for transferring LIP values from internal references to commercial calibrators. Third, recommended models for accurately estimating measurement uncertainty and reliably defining analytical performance specifications for LIP measurements should be applied. Finally, investments considering alternative options for measuring LIP (e.g., targeted to the development of automated LIP immunoassays) should be warranted. All involved stakeholders (standardization bodies, higher-order reference providers, in vitro diagnostics manufacturers, and laboratory professionals) should contribute to fill the existing gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Pasqualetti
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Clinical Pathology Unit, Luigi Sacco University Hospital, via GB Grassi 74, Milan, 20157, Italy
| | - Francesca Borrillo
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Leila Rovegno
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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36
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Panteghini M, Braga F, Camara JE, Delatour V, Van Uytfanghe K, Vesper HW, Zhang T. Optimizing Available Tools for Achieving Result Standardization: Value Added by Joint Committee on Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (JCTLM). Clin Chem 2021; 67:1590-1605. [PMID: 34633037 DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/hvab178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The JCTLM created a Task Force on Reference Measurement System Implementation (TF-RMSI) to provide guidance on metrological traceability implementation for the in vitro diagnostics (IVD) community. CONTENT TF-RMSI investigated the reference measurement systems (RMS) for 13 common measurands by applying the following procedural steps: (a) extracting data from the JCTLM database of available certified reference materials (CRMs) and reference measurement procedures (RMPs); (b) describing the RMS to which each recruited CRM or RMP belongs; (c) identifying the intended use of the CRMs, and, if used as a common calibrator for IVD measuring systems and/or trueness assessment of field methods was included, checking the CRM's certificate for information about commutability with clinical samples; and (d) checking if the CRM or RMP measurement uncertainty (MU) has the potential to be small enough to avoid significantly affecting the analytical performance specifications (APS) for MU of clinical sample results when the MU from the IVD calibrator and from the end-user measuring system were combined. SUMMARY We produced a synopsis of JCTLM-listed higher-order CRMs and RMPs for the selected measurands, including their main characteristics for implementing traceability and fulfilling (or not) the APS for suitable MU. Results showed that traceability to higher-order references can be established by IVD manufacturers within the defined APS for most of the 13 selected measurands. However, some measurands do not yet have suitable CRMs for use as common calibrators. For these measurands, splitting clinical samples with a laboratory performing the RMP may provide a practical alternative for establishing a calibration hierarchy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Panteghini
- 'L. Sacco' Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - Federica Braga
- 'L. Sacco' Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - Johanna E Camara
- Chemical Sciences Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD
| | - Vincent Delatour
- Chemistry and Biology Division, Laboratoire National de Metrologie et d'Essais (LNE), Paris, France
| | - Katleen Van Uytfanghe
- Ref4U-Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hubert W Vesper
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Tianjiao Zhang
- Division of clinical chemistry, National Center for Clinical Laboratories, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Can Çubukçu H, Vanstapel F, Thelen M, Bernabeu-Andreu FA, van Schrojenstein Lantman M, Brugnoni D, Mesko Brguljan P, Milinkovic N, Linko S, Vaubourdolle M, O'Kelly R, Kroupis C, Lohmander M, Šprongl L, Panteghini M, Boursier G. Improving the laboratory result release process in the light of ISO 15189:2012 standard. Clin Chim Acta 2021; 522:167-173. [PMID: 34418364 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2021.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The ISO 15189:2012 standard section 5.9.1 requires laboratories to review results before release, considering quality control, previous results, and clinical information, if any, and to issue documented procedures about it. While laboratory result reporting is generally regarded as part of the post-analytical phase, the result release process requires a general view of the total examination process. Reviewing test results may follow with troubleshooting and test repetition, including reanalyzing an individual sample or resampling. A systematic understanding of the result release may help laboratory professionals carry out appropriate test repetition and ensure the plausibility of laboratory results. In this paper, we addressed the crucial steps in the result release process, including evaluation of sample quality, critical result notification, result reporting, and recommendations for the management of the result release, considering quality control alerts, instrument flags, warning messages, and interference indexes. Error detection tools and plausibility checks mentioned in the present paper can support the daily practice of results release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikmet Can Çubukçu
- Ankara University Stem Cell Institute, Interdisciplinary Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Florent Vanstapel
- Laboratory Medicine, Department of Public Health, Biomedical Sciences Group, University Hospital Leuven, Belgium, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marc Thelen
- Result Laboratory for Clinical Chemistry, Amphia Hospital Breda, the Netherlands,; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Marith van Schrojenstein Lantman
- Result Laboratory for Clinical Chemistry, Amphia Hospital Breda, the Netherlands,; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Duilio Brugnoni
- Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | - Pika Mesko Brguljan
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, University Clinic for Respiratory and Allergic Deseases, Golnik, Slovenia
| | - Neda Milinkovic
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Faculty, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | | | - Ruth O'Kelly
- Association of Clinical Biochemists in Ireland, Ireland
| | - Christos Kroupis
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Attikon University General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Haidari, Greece
| | - Maria Lohmander
- Regional Laboratoriemedicin, Sahlgrenska Universitetssjukhuset, Trollhättan/Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Luděk Šprongl
- Clinical Laboratory, Hospital Kladno, Kladno, Czech Republic
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Luigi Sacco", and Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - Guilaine Boursier
- Dept of Genetics, Rare Diseases and Personalized Medicine Rare Diseases and Autoinflammatory Unit, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Preparing Laboratories for Interconnected Health Care. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11081487. [PMID: 34441421 PMCID: PMC8391810 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11081487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In an increasingly interconnected health care system, laboratory medicine can facilitate diagnosis and treatment of patients effectively. This article describes necessary changes and points to potential challenges on a technical, content, and organizational level. As a technical precondition, electronic laboratory reports have to become machine-readable and interpretable. Terminologies such as Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes (LOINC), Nomenclature for Properties and Units (NPU), Unified Code for Units of Measure (UCUM), and SNOMED-CT can lead to the necessary semantic interoperability. Even if only single “atomized” results of the whole report are extracted, the necessary information for correct interpretation must be available. Therefore, interpretive comments, e.g., concerns about an increased measurement uncertainty must be electronically attached to every affected measurement result. Standardization of laboratory analyses with traceable standards and reference materials will enable knowledge transfer and safe interpretation of laboratory analyses from multiple laboratories. In an interconnected health care system, laboratories should strive to transform themselves into a data hub that not only receives samples but also extensive information about the patient. On that basis, they can return measurement results enriched with high-quality interpretive comments tailored to the individual patient and unlock the full potential of laboratory medicine.
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Braga F, Panteghini M. Performance specifications for measurement uncertainty of common biochemical measurands according to Milan models. Clin Chem Lab Med 2021; 59:cclm-2021-0170. [PMID: 33725754 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2021-0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Definition and fullfillment of analytical performance specifications (APS) for measurement uncertainty (MU) allow to make laboratory determinations clinically usable. The 2014 Milan Strategic Conference have proposed models to objectively derive APS based on: (a) the effect of analytical performance on clinical outcome; (b) biological variation components; and (3) the state of the art of the measurement, defined as the highest level of analytical performance technically achievable. Using these models appropriately, we present here a proposal for defining APS for standard MU for some common biochemical measurands. METHODS We allocated a group of 13 measurands selected among the most commonly laboratory requested tests to each of the three Milan models on the basis of their biological and clinical characteristics. Both minimum and desirable levels of quality of APS for standard MU of clinical samples were defined by using information obtained from available studies. RESULTS Blood total hemoglobin, plasma glucose, blood glycated hemoglobin, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 were allocated to the model 1 and the corresponding desirable APS were 2.80, 2.00, 3.00, and 10.0%, respectively. Plasma potassium, sodium, chloride, total calcium, alanine aminotransferase, creatinine, urea, and total bilirubin were allocated to the model 2 and the corresponding desirable APS were 1.96, 0.27, 0.49, 0.91, 4.65, 2.20, 7.05, and 10.5%, respectively. For C-reactive protein, allocated to the model 3, a desirable MU of 3.76% was defined. CONCLUSIONS APS for MU of clinical samples derived in this study are essential to objectively evaluate the reliability of results provided by medical laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Braga
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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40
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Aloisio E, Falvella FS, Carnevale A, Panteghini M. SARS-CoV-2 serologic tests: do not forget the good laboratory practice. Clin Chem Lab Med 2020; 59:e175-e177. [DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2020-1554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Aloisio
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco , Milan , Italy
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan , Milan , Italy
| | | | - Assunta Carnevale
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco , Milan , Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco , Milan , Italy
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan , Milan , Italy
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41
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Pasqualetti S, Chibireva M, Borrillo F, Braga F, Panteghini M. Improving measurement uncertainty of plasma electrolytes: a complex but not impossible task. Clin Chem Lab Med 2020; 59:e129-e132. [PMID: 33048834 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2020-1399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Pasqualetti
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy.,Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mariia Chibireva
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy.,Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Borrillo
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy.,Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Braga
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy.,Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Clinical Pathology Unit, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy.,Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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42
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Farrance I, Frenkel R. Measurement uncertainty and the importance of correlation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 59:7-9. [DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2020-1205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ian Farrance
- Discipline of Laboratory Medicine , School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University , 3083 Bundoora , Victoria , Australia
| | - Robert Frenkel
- Former affiliation: National Measurement Institute , West Lindfield , NSW , Australia
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43
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Braga F, Panteghini M. Derivation of performance specifications for uncertainty of serum C-reactive protein measurement according to the Milan model 3 (state of the art). Clin Chem Lab Med 2020; 58:e263-e265. [DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2020-0532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Braga
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME) , University of Milan , Milan , Italy
| | - Mauro Panteghini
- Research Centre for Metrological Traceability in Laboratory Medicine (CIRME) , University of Milan , Milan , Italy
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