Annals of clinical biochemistry
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Ann. Clin. Biochem. · Jul 2021
Pneumatic tube validation: Reducing the need for donor samples by integrating a vial-embedded data logger.
The most common way to validate a pneumatic tube system is to compare pneumatic tube system-transported blood samples to blood samples carried by hand. The importance of measuring the forces inside the pneumatic tube system has also been emphasized. The aim of this study was to define a validation protocol using a mini data logger (VitalVial, Motryx Inc., Canada) to reduce the need for donor samples in pneumatic tube system validation. ⋯ A three-day validation protocol using VitalVials is enough to determine the stability of a Tempus600 system and can greatly reduce the need for donor samples. When in commission, the stability of the pneumatic tube system should be verified and lactate dehydrogenase haemolysis should be routinely checked.
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Ann. Clin. Biochem. · May 2021
Faecal haemoglobin concentration thresholds for reassurance and urgent investigation for colorectal cancer based on a faecal immunochemical test in symptomatic patients in primary care.
Faecal haemoglobin concentration (f-Hb), estimated using a faecal immunochemical test, can be safely implemented in primary care to assess risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Clinical outcomes of patients presenting with symptoms of lower gastrointestinal disease were examined using an extensive range of f-Hb thresholds to decide on reassurance or referral for further investigation. ⋯ In primary care, f-Hb, in conjunction with clinical assessment, can safely and objectively determine individual risk of CRC and decide on simple reassurance or urgent, or routine referral.
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Ann. Clin. Biochem. · Sep 2020
ReviewCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the renin-angiotensin system: A closer look at angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2).
Since the first cases of atypical pneumonia linked to the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan, China, were described in late December 2019, the global landscape has changed radically. In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, and at the time of writing this review, just over three million individuals have been infected with more than 200,000 deaths globally. Numerous countries are in 'lockdown', social distancing is the new norm, even the most advanced healthcare systems are under pressure, and a global economic recession seems inevitable. ⋯ Many high-risk COVID-19 patients with comorbidities are on ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, and this has sparked debate about whether to continue these treatment regimes. Attention has also shifted to ACE2 being a target for future therapies or vaccines against COVID-19. In this review, we discuss COVID-19 and its complex relationship with ACE2.
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Ann. Clin. Biochem. · Jul 2020
Measurement of faecal haemoglobin with a faecal immunochemical test can assist in defining which patients attending primary care with rectal bleeding require urgent referral.
Current guidelines document persistent rectal bleeding as an alarm symptom in patients presenting to primary care. We studied whether a faecal immunochemical test could assist in their assessment. ⋯ Patients with rectal bleeding and f-Hb <10 μg Hb/g faeces are unlikely to have SBD and could be investigated by sigmoidoscopy alone. Using the faecal immunochemical test to guide investigation of patients with rectal bleeding is a rational and practical way forward.
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Ann. Clin. Biochem. · May 2020
Electrolyte imbalances in patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Early studies have reported various electrolyte abnormalities at admission in patients who progress to the severe form of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). As electrolyte imbalance may not only impact patient care, but provide insight into the pathophysiology of COVID-19, we aimed to analyse all early data reported on electrolytes in COVID-19 patients with and without severe form. ⋯ This pooled analysis confirms that COVID-19 severity is associated with lower serum concentrations of sodium, potassium and calcium. We recommend electrolytes be measured at initial presentation and serially monitored during hospitalization in order to establish timely and appropriate corrective actions.