1 – Program overview

This external quality assessment program evaluates the accuracy of different assays for detecting anti-PF4 antibodies in the diagnosis of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.

Statistical reports are sent with supporting comments from the expert clinical biologists / program coordinators.

This program is only intended for immunological methods: Rapid assays: qualitative immunochromatographic assay or automated assay with results in U/mL; ELISA assays.

2 – Assessment frequency

Number of surveys per year: 4
Number of control samples per survey: 1 or 2
Number of samples per year: 6

3 – List of analytes assessed 

• Anti-PF4 antibodies

Results are evaluated both quantitatively (in U/mL and OD) and qualitatively (negative, positive or equivocal).

4 – Description of the control samples

Liquid human control plasma (citrate) (ready-to-use 0.5 mL samples), spiked with anti-PF4 monoclonal antibody.