Assessment of Vcheck analyzer for rapid progesterone concentration measurement including recommendations for achieving the optimal breeding time in bitches.

Background And Aim: Serum progesterone concentration plays critical role in determining the optimal breeding time in bitches and diagnosing reproductive-related issues. This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of serum progesterone results obtained from commercial point-of-care immunological analyzers, namely, Vcheck, with those obtained using chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA). Our overarching goal was to evaluate these analyzers' accuracy and establish standardized guidelines for optimal breeding timing.

Materials And Methods: Ninety-four serum samples from bitches were analyzed using the Vcheck analyzer and compared with CMIA. Thorough documentation included the mean, standard deviation, 95% confidence interval (CI), and minimum and maximum values of serum progesterone concentrations. Furthermore, Pearson's correlation coefficient, Lin's concordance correlation coefficient, and the bias correction factor were meticulously recorded.

Results: The mean progesterone concentration measured using the Vcheck analyzer was significantly lower than that measured using CMIA, with a mean difference of 1.26 ng/mL of serum. The Bias correction factor was 0.935, which was nearly 1.00, indicating that the line of best-fit was on the perfect line of agreement, providing insight into the measurement accuracy. Pearson's correlation coefficient, a measure of precision, was also close to 1 (0.939), confirming the reliability of the data. Furthermore, Lin's concordance correlation coefficient was 0.877, indicating a fair overall agreement between the Vcheck and CMIA methods. These results support the validity of the Vcheck analyzer's results. The present study was developed by aligning with established CMIA guidelines and adapting them using the range and 95% CI derived from each set of results, ensuring a standardized and rigorous approach.

Conclusion: The Vcheck analyzer provides a rapid assessment of serum progesterone concentration in bitches, with results comparable to those measured using the CMIA technique. However, when considering the use of the Vcheck analyzer, it is recommended that the results should be interpreted carefully and the interpretation guidelines should be followed. In conclusion, Vcheck provides a reliable and convenient method for veterinarian practitioners to measure canine progesterone levels in a clinical/hospital setting.