Deciphering Sources of Variability in Clinical Pathology—It's Not Just about the Numbers: Preanalytical Considerations. (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Everds, Nancy E.
• Other Names: Aulbach Adam guest-editor.; Jordan Holly guest-editor.; Tarrant Jacqueline guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Toxicologic pathology. Volume 45:Number 2(2017)
• Page Start: 275
• Page End: 280
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: preanalytical -- hematology -- clinical chemistry -- restraint; Pathology -- Periodicals; Toxicology -- Periodicals; Pathology; Toxicology; 615.9
• DOI: 10.1177/0192623316680783
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0192-6233

Abstract

Preanalytical variables can have significant impacts on clinical pathology parameters evaluated during the conduct of a nonclinical safety or toxicity study. These preanalytical variables can be controlled by careful attention to factors such as animal dietary status (diet composition, fasted, and fed state), restraint and anesthesia, intercurrent procedures, timing of clinical pathology collections, and proficiency of animal technicians. The impact of preanalytical variables on test results can be significant enough to result in difficult interpretations and/or regulatory questions or can obfuscate the effects of a test article. Control of preanalytical variables starts with knowledge of what processes and procedures impact test results. Minimizing these effects improves the quality of results and maximizes the value of the study.