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Blood microanalysis: a simple study with great diagnostic value
How microanalysis is becoming part of modern laboratory medicine
Traditional laboratory tests typically require 5–10 ml of venous blood. However, in a world where the need for rapid, accessible and minimally invasive tests is increasing, the role of blood microassays is increasing. In 2023, the WHO recognized the development of microdiagnostic methods as one of the priorities of primary health care, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas (WHO, Essential Diagnostics List).
Microanalysis is a study of a small volume of capillary blood (from 20 to 100 μl), which allows you to assess a number of important parameters. It is used for express screening, monitoring of chronic diseases, and in cases where it is impossible to take venous blood.
What indicators can be determined using microanalysis?
Modern laboratories and portable devices allow for a wide range of tests to be performed on a small amount of biomaterial:
- blood glucose
- hemoglobin, hematocrit
- cholesterol (general, LDL, HDL)
- total protein
- C-reactive protein
- leukocyte formula (in limited quantities)
- ferritin
- lactate, electrolytes (depending on equipment)
Performance depends on the platform: some analyzers (e.g., Abbott's i-STAT or Cobas b 101) provide results close to those of a stationary laboratory.
Advantages and limitations
Advantages:
- minimal trauma
- convenience for children, the elderly, and patients with vascular difficulties
- possibility of self-monitoring (glucometers, cholesterol test systems)
- quick result — 5–10 minutes
Limitation:
- not suitable for complex or bulky biochemical panels
- accuracy depends on sampling conditions (body temperature, sample quality)
- some indicators may deviate from venous standards
Microanalysis in practice: areas of application
Endocrinology — daily glucose monitoring in patients with diabetes
Cardiology — cholesterol and lipid profile screening
Pediatrics — assessment of anemia, iron deficiency without the need for venipuncture
Outpatient medicine and telemedicine — rapid assessment in mobile clinics
Sports medicine — monitoring of electrolyte balance and lactate
Table: Examples of microanalyses and their significance
| Indicator | Microanalysis method | Norm for an adult | Clinical significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glucose | Capillary plasma | 3.3–5.5 mmol/l | Diabetes diagnosis and control |
| Hemoglobin | Colorimetric method | 120–160 g/l | Anemia, blood loss |
| Total cholesterol | Enzyme immunoassay | <5.0 mmol/L | Cardiovascular risk |
| CRP | Immunochemiluminescence | <5 mg/l | Sign of inflammation |
| Ferritin | ELISA | 15–200 ng/mL (women) | Iron stores in the body |
Reliability of results
The FDA indicates that modern microassays can be comparable in accuracy to standard methods if performed properly and using certified equipment (FDA, Point-of-care testing guidance).
The Mayo Clinic, in its recommendations for family physicians, also indicates that microanalysis is an acceptable alternative for primary screening, especially in situations where there is a lack of time or access to a full laboratory (Mayo Clinic Labs).
References to sources
FDA – Point-of-care testing
Mayo Clinic – Point-of-care blood testing
Microblood analysis is not a compromise, but a smart solution for rapid diagnostics. Combined with modern equipment, it allows for effective health monitoring even outside the hospital.
