Objective determination of appropriate reporting intervals.
BACKGROUND
The reporting interval is the incremental value chosen in reporting analyte concentration. Reporting intervals for different analytes are often inappropriately narrow, when analytical imprecision and biological variability are considered.


METHODS
We have used statistical techniques to determine intervals for individual analytes at which there is 50% or 95% confidence that two results are analytically different, and compared these with the reporting intervals in use for a range of general chemistry analytes and analytes usually measured by immunoassay.


RESULTS
No analytes met the criteria for 95% confidence that the results are analytically different. Even at the 50% confidence level, 24 of 46 analytes failed at all concentrations examined. For some analytes, particularly hormones at high concentration, the reporting interval increment should be increased by a factor of at least ten.


CONCLUSIONS
The majority of analytes are inappropriately reported when analytical precision alone is considered. The concept of the 'uncertainty of measurement' has not been adequately addressed. A consensus should be reached and implemented on appropriate reporting intervals for all analytes.
Badrick
Tony
T
Sullivan, Nicolaides Pathology, Taringa, Queensland 4068, Australia. Tony.Badrick@snp.com.au
Wilson
Susan R
SR
Dimeski
Goce
G
Hickman
Peter E
PE
D002624:Chemistry, Clinical / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards*; D019963:Clinical Chemistry Tests / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D016001:Confidence Intervals; D012015:Reference Standards; D012016:Reference Values