EKF publishes new white paper detailing successful evaluation of POCT HbA1c analyzers

Quo-Test and Quo-Lab analyzers meet set requirements for determination of HbA1c

EKF Diagnostics, the global diagnostics business, announces the publication of a new white paper detailing the successful external evaluation of its Quo-Test and Quo-Lab glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) analyzers - ‘Evaluation of four POCT-Systems for the measurement of HbA1c’.

EKF’s Quo-Test HbA1c analyzer is easy-to-use and highly accurate in a POCT setting. Image Credit: EKF Diagnostics

The aim of the study by scientists at IMCARMED GmbH was to compare four point-of-care (POCT) methods with established laboratory techniques for the determination of HbA1c, an internationally recognized biomarker of blood glucose levels for diabetes management. Bringing testing for this biomarker into a POC setting enables real-time monitoring and management of diabetes. Treatment programs utilizing POC HbA1c analysis are able to minimise the number of clinical consultations required and offer a better standard of clinical care to their patients.

The accuracy trial of the four POCT methods was performed with 100 different EDTA blood samples over four days and the results were then compared with those gathered using laboratory-based HPLC and immunological methodologies. Intra-run precision was also examined and all four POCT systems demonstrated good repeatability.

The study concluded that all four POCT systems met the requirements of HbA1c determination in practice and those set by the German Medical Association. EKF’s Quo-Test was noted as being particularly easy-to-use and therefore ideal for use in a POCT setting by non-laboratory trained users. Additionally, with regard to accuracy Quo-Test was found to have the best agreement with both laboratory methods.

The new white paper ‘Evaluation of four POCT-Systems for the measurement of HbA1c’ by Dr Andreas Müller (IMCARMED GmbH) is published online at: www.ekfdiagnostics.com/HbA1c_Analysers_115.aspx.