Retrospective Approach to Evaluate Interferences in Immunoassay.

Background: Despite the increase in sensitivity and specificity of immunoassay technique over years, analytical interference remains to be major area of concern. The interfering substances are endogenous substances that are natural, polyreactive antibodies as heterophilic or auto antibodies, or human anti-animal antibodies together with other unsuspected binding proteins that are unique to the individual. Interfering substances can interfere with the reaction between analyte and reagent antibodies in immunoassay resulting in false positive or negative values.

Organization of the POCT Unit.

Point-of-care testing (POCT) has evolved as an important part of laboratory medicine by virtue of its compactness, portability, and the feasibility of operation by nonlaboratory personnel, where fast and accurate testing methods are a primary concern and, as a result, improving the patient care. To successfully achieve POCT quality in networks, a multidisciplinary organizational approach is required. A clearly defined organizational structure should be put in place for proper functioning and optimum utilization of each POCT unit.