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Accuracy of laboratory tests: what determines the reliability of the results
What is test accuracy and why is it important?
The accuracy of laboratory tests is the degree to which the obtained result corresponds to the real state of the body. For the patient, this means that based on the results of the analysis, the doctor can make the correct diagnosis, choose the optimal treatment and avoid incorrect prescriptions. An error of even a few units can affect the clinical decision, especially when testing hormones, tumor markers, glucose levels or coagulation parameters.
Main factors affecting accuracy
1. Patient preparation
Failure to follow the recommendations before taking the test is one of the main reasons for unreliable results. For example, consuming food, caffeine, or alcohol, physical activity or stress before the test can change the biochemical composition of the blood or hormonal background.
2. Quality of biomaterial collection
Poor blood collection or improper transportation of urine or swabs can cause hemolysis, bacterial contamination, or sample loss, which reduces the accuracy of the test or renders it unusable.
3. Laboratory equipment
Modern automated equipment has a high level of sensitivity and repeatability of results. However, even in the best laboratory, regular calibration of instruments and participation in an external quality control system (for example, CAP or RIQAS programs) are important.
4. Human factor
Laboratory errors, program failures, and misinterpretation of results can all have consequences. That's why leading laboratories are implementing multi-stage control of results and double reading for complex diagnoses.
Comparison table: factors affecting the accuracy of analyses
| Factor | Example of influence | Recommendations for avoiding errors |
|---|---|---|
| Eating | Increased glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides | Take the test on an empty stomach (8–12 hours) |
| Physical activity | Increased creatine phosphokinase, myoglobin | Avoid activity the day before the test |
| Stress | Change in cortisol and adrenaline levels | Rest before the test, don't be nervous |
| Alcohol | Distortion of liver function tests | Abstain from alcohol for at least 48 hours |
| Medicine | Affects clotting, hormones, enzymes | Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking. |
| Insufficient amount of biomaterial | Impossibility of re-examination | Follow the volume and laboratory instructions |
How laboratories increase reliability
Automation: reduces the impact of the human factor.
Double-checking the results: especially for critical values.
Quality control: daily calibrations, participation in international programs.
Validation of methods: each test undergoes internal testing before implementation.
How the patient can influence accuracy
Follow all preparation rules
Report all medications, procedures, and illnesses
If in doubt, repeat the analysis in another laboratory.
Choose accredited medical institutions with modern equipment
Therefore, the accuracy of laboratory analysis is the result of a coordinated interaction between the patient, medical staff and laboratory technologies. It is ensured not only by the technique, but also by careful adherence to standards at each stage. To obtain a reliable result, you need to follow the recommendations for preparation and choose reliable laboratories.
