Strategies for mitigating risk posed by biotin interference on clinical immunoassays

Area of Science:

• Clinical Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Biotin, a water-soluble B-vitamin, is widely used as an oral supplement for cosmetic benefits and in high doses for medical conditions.
• Many immunoassays utilize the high-affinity biotin-streptavidin interaction for analyte detection, making them susceptible to biotin interference.
• This interference can affect critical diagnostic tests, including those for cardiac markers, hormones, and tumor markers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significant interference of biotin supplements with common immunoassays.
• To describe strategies for mitigating biotin interference in laboratory testing.
• To emphasize the importance of educating healthcare professionals and patients about biotin interference risks.

Main Methods:

• Review of biotin's role in supplements and medical treatments.
• Identification of immunoassays affected by biotin interference.
• Development and implementation of specimen treatment protocols.
• Creation of educational materials for patients and clinicians.

Main Results:

• Biotin interference can cause falsely positive or negative results in various immunoassays.
• Affected tests include troponin, Beta hCG, thyroid function tests, and tumor markers.
• Successful implementation of educational strategies and specimen treatment reduced the risk of patient safety issues.

Conclusions:

• Increased biotin use poses a significant risk of laboratory test interference.
• Healthcare providers must be aware of biotin interference and advise patients accordingly.
• Proactive laboratory strategies and patient education are crucial for ensuring accurate diagnostic testing and patient safety.