FACTOR VIII ASSAY PROFICIENCY ASSESSMENT: EXPERIENCE IN THE USA

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Abstract
ABSTRACT: Data from the College of American Pathologists (CAP) surveys for Factor VIII:C assays from 1976–1982 are reviewed. The different instrument‐reagent combinations are analyzed according to precision and sensitivity. The results of questionnaires on specific assay technic are also analyzed. There has been an increase in the number of laboratories performing the Factor VIII:C assay from 1976 to 1982. In general there was poor correlation between precision and sensitivity in most systems; however, newer instrument‐reagent combinations from the same manufacturer have shown improvement in precision‐sensitivity ratings. Questionnaire results revealed marked interlaboratory variation with respect to the technical aspects of factor assays. Recent introduction of recommended Factor VIII:C assay guidelines, international standards for Factor VIII:C concentrate and plasma, and newer, more precise instrument‐reagent combinations should improve laboratory performance in Factor VIII:C assays.