Biological Matrix

Why Use Controls in a Biological Matrix?by Charles E. Pippenger, Ph.D.

Dr. Pippenger is semi-retired in Vermont and Adjunct Professor, Department of Neurology, University of Vermont, College of Medicine.

One of the major goals of every lab is to minimize the occurrence of lab errors. This requires that every lab be aware of potential sources of error that may occur in Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM).

UTAK was one of the very first sources of Antiepileptic (AED) controls in a biological matrix. Because of the quality of their products, in 1974, UTAK was selected to provide the controls for the Antiepileptic Drug Levels Quality Control Program established under the auspices of the Epilepsy Foundation of America. I'm delighted UTAK continues to recognize the importance of sharing quality control data in a timely fashion. The establishment of their P2P program for trace elements and its expansion into TDM has the potential to enhance interlaboratory communication and fill a great void which has existed for too long. Accurate analytical assays are the key to optimizing and personalizing patient care. Interlaboratory quality control programs and communication are key components of any analytical assay.

Why Use Controls in a Biological Matrix?by Charles E. Pippenger, Ph.D.