Distant testing in laboratory hematology and flow cytometry--the Indian experience

Area of Science:

• Clinical Pathology
• Laboratory Medicine
• Hematology

Background:

• Outsourcing patient sample analysis to external laboratories is a prevalent practice in modern healthcare.
• Hematologic investigations are crucial for diagnosing and managing various medical conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the impact of preanalytic variables on hematologic test results.
• To emphasize the importance of understanding sample handling effects on diagnostic accuracy.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review of existing literature and practices.
• It focuses on identifying and analyzing factors affecting samples during transit and storage.

Main Results:

• Preanalytic variables, including transport conditions and storage duration, can significantly alter cellular parameters and analyte levels.
• These alterations can lead to inaccurate interpretations of hematologic test results.

Conclusions:

• Awareness of preanalytic variability is essential for laboratory professionals and clinicians.
• Proper sample management is critical to ensure the reliability of hematologic test results and inform appropriate medical decisions.