Abnormal laboratory results: Pitfalls in interpreting laboratory results
Pat Phillips · Australian Prescriber · 2009
The results of laboratory tests are affected by the collection and handling of the specimen, the particular laboratory and the method of analysis.They are also affected by variability within the individual and within the laboratory.Interpretation at one point in time should consider the position of the measurement within the laboratory reference range appropriate for the sample and the person being tested.Interpreting results over time should consider the likely variability of the measurement and the level of certainty required to identify a true change or absence of change.The more variable the measurement and the higher the required level of certainty, the larger the change between measurements needs to be before it can be considered clinically significant.