Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 18, 2026
07:24
A Precision Medicine Tool for Measurement and Monitoring of Hemoglobin S in Sickle Cell Disease Patients Receiving Transfusion Therapy
2.0K
Proficiency testing program for hemoglobin E, A2 and F analysis in Thailand using lyophilized hemoglobin control
Sakorn Pornprasert1, Monthathip Tookjai2, Manoo Punyamung2
1Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine
|November 28, 2017
Summary
This study evaluated lyophilized hemoglobin control materials for external quality assessment in Thailand. While measurements were accurate, thalassemia interpretation requires improvement for laboratory staff.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Chemistry
- Hematology
- Quality Assurance
Background:
- External quality assessment (EQA) for hemoglobin analysis is lacking for high HbA2/E levels common in Southeast Asia.
- Existing proficiency testing (PT) programs may not adequately assess conditions like beta-thalassemia trait or HbE trait.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of lyophilized hemoglobin control materials for a proficiency testing program.
- To assess the performance of laboratory staff in hemoglobin analysis and thalassemia interpretation.
Main Methods:
- A proficiency testing program for hemoglobin analysis and thalassemia interpretation was established following ISO/IEC17043:2010 standards.
- Lyophilized hemoglobin control materials with varying HbA2/E levels were distributed to participants over three cycles in 2015 and 2016.
- Participants performed routine hemoglobin analysis and thalassemia interpretation, submitting results for evaluation.
Main Results:
- Participant numbers increased from 63 in 2015 to 76 in 2016, with full participation in all cycles by 2016.
- Laboratory staff demonstrated accurate hemoglobin measurement and typing.
- However, misinterpretations in thalassemia diagnosis were observed among participants.
Conclusions:
- Lyophilized hemoglobin control materials developed at AMC-CSC proved effective for the proficiency testing program.
- There is a clear need to enhance the thalassemia interpretation skills of laboratory personnel.
