Would the Value of Clinical Laboratory Science be Increased by Further Written and Material Standards in Haematology?

Abstract

The purpose of standardization in haematology, as in all branches of laboratory medicine, is to ensure that results of quantitative assays provide clinically reliable information. They must be precise and as accurate as possible with inter-instrument and inter-laboratory harmonization. In this context standardization refers to both materials and method. It is important to ensure that the standards themselves are standardized, reliable and reproducible. To this end, ECCLS has an important role in providing the requisite specifications in written format, and possibly also in being responsible for the preparation, supply and correct use of material standards. These are major tasks and it is necessary for us first to be convinced of their usefulness in haematology. Does standardization lead to improved performance and how relevant is this to haematological practice?