ADDITIONAL REVIEW NOTES
CLINCAL CHEMISTRY
1. CONVERSION OF TRADITIONAL UNITS TO SI UNITS FOR COMMON CHEMISTRY ANALYTES.
CONVENTIONAL | —SI__| CONVERSION CONVENTIONAL | SI__| CONVERSION
CURRENT | _UNITS | FACTOR’ CURRENT | UNITS | FACTOR
‘Albumin | g/00 mL gi | 10 Tron mgfdL mov | 0.178
‘AST UML (mu/mly kati | 0.0167 Lithium mEg/L mov [1.0
‘Ammonia | wa/dl mol _| 0.587 Magnesium | mEq/L mmol_| 0.8
Bicarbonate | mEq/L mmoll_| 1.0 Osmolality | mOsm/kg mmolkg | 1.0
Bilirubin | mg/d. umol_[ 47.4 Phosphorus _| mg/dL. mmolL_| 0.323
BUN mg/d mmol/L | 0.357 Potassium _| mEq/L ‘mmol/L 4.0
Calcium | mg/dl. mmol_| 0.25 ‘Sodium | mEq/L mmol/L 4.0
Chloride | mEq/L. ‘mmoW/L_| 1.0 Thyroxine | g/d nmovL | 12.8
Cholesterol | mg/dL mmol/L | 0.026, Total ‘gidL. ofl 10
| protein | |
Cortisol | gil pmol | 0.0276 Triglyceride | mg/dL [mmol | 0.0113
Creatinine | mg/dL moll | 88.4 Uric acid | mg/d [mmolit_| 0.0595
Crea mUmin mus | 0.0167 Vit B12 nigimt. pmov | 0.0738
clearance
Folic acid | ngimt mov | 2.27 PCO: mmiFig kPa__| 0.433
Glucose | mg/dL ‘mmol/L | 0.0555 PO: mmiFig kPa__| 0.133
Hemoglobin | g/dL. gh [10
2. Visible light falls in between, with the color violet at 400-nm and red at 700-nm wavelengths being the approximate
limits ofthe visible spectrum. (Bishop)
3,_ EXAMPLES OF NONIONIZING RADIATION IN CLINICAL LABORATORIES
TYPE ‘APPROXIMATE ‘SOURCE EQUIPMENT | PROTECTIVE MEASURES
WAVELENGTH EXAMPLE
Tow frequency Tom’ Radiofrequency coil in GP- _ | Engineered shielding and
mass spectrometer posted pacemaker warning
Microwaves 3m-3mm Energy-beam microwave | Engineered shielding
used to accelerate tissue
staining in histology-prep
processes
Infrared 750 nm-0.3 em Heat lamp, laser Containment and appropriate
warning labels
Visible spectrum “400 - 750 nm General illumination and Filters, diffusers, and
glare nonreflective surfaces
Ultraviolet “4 400 nm Germicidal lamps used in| Eye and skin protection; UV
biologic safety cabinet warning labels
4, BIOCHEMICAL FUNCTIONS OF THE KIDNEY
FUNCTION. EXAMPLE
‘Synthesis Erythropoietin, rennin, prostaglandins
Metabolism Inactivation of aldosterone, glucagons, insulin; activation of
vitamin D, formation of creatine
Excretion "Ammonia, urea, uric acid; several minerals; toxic substances
5. __ APPROACHES TO ASSAY OF UREA NITROGEN (Calbreath)
METHODS
‘COMMENTS
Colorimetric: diacetyl
Inexpensive, lacks specificity
Enzymatic: NHs formation
Greater specificity, more expensive
* Isotope dilution mass spectrometry - reference method
6
renal failure is called uremia, or the uremic syndrome.
‘An elevated concentration of urea in the blood is called azotemia. Very high plasma urea concentration accompanied by
This condition is eventually fatal if not treated by dialysis or
transplantation. Conditions causing increased plasma urea are classified according to cause into three main categories:
Prerenal, renal, and postrenal. (Bishop)
7.__APPROACHES TO ASSAY OF CREATININE (Calbreath)
METHODS
COMMENTS
Colorimetric: end point
‘Simple, nonspecific
Colorimetric: Kinetic
Rapid, increased specificity
Enzymatic
Measure ammonia colorimetrically or with
electrode
ion-selective
8 The methods most frequently used to measure creatinine are based on the Jaffe reaction. In this reaction, creatinine
reacts with picric acid in alkaline solution to form a
red-orange chromogen, The reaction was adopted for the
measurement of blood creatinine by Folin and Wu. The reaction is nonspecific and subject to positive interference by a
large number of compounds, including acetoacetate, acetone, ascorbate, glucose, and pyruvate. More accurate results
are obtained when creatinine in a protein-free filtrate is adsorbed onto Fuller's earth (aluminum magnesium silicate) or
Lloyd's reagent (sodium aluminum silicate) then eluted and reacted with alkaline picrate.(Bishop)Page |2
9. APPROACHES TO ASSAY OF URIC ACID (Calbreath)
METHODS COMMENTS
Colorimetric Problems with turbidily, several common drugs interfere
Enzymatic: UV Need special instrumentation and optical cells
Enzymatic: H02 Interference by reducing substances
10. LIVER FUNCTIONS
FUNCTION EXAMPLES
‘Synthesis Proteins — albumin, cholinesterase, coagulation proteins,
cholesterol, bile salts and glycogen
Metabolism Glucose to acetyCoA, gluconeogenesis, amino acid
conversions, fatty acids
Detoxification Bilirubin, drugs, ammonia
Excretion Bile acids
11. Cigarette smoking by the patient is a significant source of ammonia contamination. It is recommended that patients do not
‘smoke for several hours before the sample is collected. (Bishop)
12. BILIRUBIN FRACTIONS
Conjugated bilirubin | Contains one or two attached glucuronic acid molecules
Reacts directly with the color reagent
Also referred to as DIRECT BILIRUBIN
Unconjugated bilirubin | Noncovalently attached to albumin
Does not react with the color reagent unti the bilirubin is first dissociated from the protein
INDIRECT BILIRUBIN
Delta bilirubin Bilrubin fraction that is covalently attached to protein
Reacts directly with the color reagent and contributes to the direct, or conjugated, bilirubin value
13. COLOR REACTION FOR QUANTITATION OF BILIRUBIN
Bilirubin + diazotized sulfanilic acid -> azobilirubin
+ _ Color is proportional to the concentration of bilirubin
ASSAY T EVELYN-MALLOY T JENDRASSIK-GROF
pH ‘Acid ‘Alkaline
Dissociating agent Methanol Caffeine-sodium benzoate
Diazo product Red or reddish-purple color Blue (maximum absorbance around 600
{absorption maximum in the region | nm)
of 560 nm)
14. Gilbert disease, Crigler-Naljar syndrome, and physiologic jaundice of the newborn are hepatic causes of jaundice that
result in elevations in unconjugated bilirubin, Conditions such as Dubin-Johnson and Rotor syndrome are hepatic causes
of jaundice that result in elevations in conjugated bilirubin. (Bishop)
15. In the more serious or type I form of the Crigler-Naljar syndrome, the unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia becomes marked,
almost always exceeding 5 mg/dL. and causing jaundice, and sometimes exceeding 20 mg/dL. Affected infants develop
severe unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia, which typically leads to kernicterus, deposition of bilirubin in the brain,
particularly affecting the basal ganglia, mainly the lenticular nucleus, causing severe motor dysfunction and retardation,
The danger of kernicterus is a certainty at levels exceeding 20 mg/dL. It is vital to treat these infants with
phototherapy to cause excretion of the unconjugated bilirubin. (Henry)
16. When serum bilirubin approaches 430 mmol/L. (25 mg/L), interference may be observed in assays for albumin (4-
hydroxyazobenzene-2-carboxylic acid [HABA] procedure), cholesterol (using ferric chloride reagents), and total protein
(Biuret procedure). (Henry)
17. CHARACTERISTICS OF SELECTED PLASMA PROTEINS (Bishop 6" Ed.)
Prealbumin (Transthyretin) | INDICATOR OF MALNUTRITION; binds thyroid hormones and relinol-binding protein
‘Albumin Binds bilirubin, steroids. fatty acids; major contributor to oncotic pressure
‘ai-Globulins
‘at-antitrypsin ‘Acute-phase reactant; protease inhibitor
‘at-fetoprotein Principal fetal_protein
‘at-acid glycoprotein ‘Acute-phase reactant
| (orosomucoid)
|a1-lipoprotein (HDL) ‘Transports lipid
[ai-antichymotrypsi Inhibits serine proteinases (i, chymotrypsin)
[nter-a-trypsin Inhibits proteinases (le, trypsin)
Ge-globulin Binds vitamin D and actinPage |3
@2-Globulins
Haptoglobins ‘Acute-phase reactant; binds hemogiobin
Ceruloplasmin Peroxidase activity: contains copper
‘«2-Macroglobulin Inhibits thrombin, trypsin, pepsin
f-Globulins
Pre-f-Lipoproteins (VLDL) _| Transpors lipids (primarily triglyceride)
‘Transferrin (Siderophilin) | Transports iron
Hemopexin Binds heme
{-Lipoproteins (LDL) ‘Transports lipids (primarily cholesterol)
{f2-Micorglobulin (B2M) ‘Component of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules class |
‘Complement Immune response
Fibrinogen Precursor of fibrin clot
C-reactive protein (CRP) | Acute-phase reactant; motivates phagocytosis in inflammatory disease (Bishop) (Henry-y)
7-Globulins
Immunoglobulin G
Immunoglobulin A
Immunoglobulin M ‘Antibodies (early response)
Immunoglobulin D ‘Antibodies
Immunoglobulin & Antibodies (allergy)
18. SIGNIFICANT PROTEINS ELECTROPHORETIC FRACTIONS
FRACTION ‘SPECIFIC PROTEINS
‘Albumin Albumin
‘Alpha; globulin Alpha antitrypsin, lipoproteins
‘Alpha, globulin Ceruloplasmin, haptoglobin, alpha, macroglobulin, lipoproteins
Beta globulin ‘Transferrin, hemopexin, complement system, lipoproteins
Gamma globulin immunoglobulins
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|Page |4
19. Four major lipoprotein classes have been identified: Chylomicrons (CMs), very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL),
low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Several minor lipoproteins have also been
identified, including intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL) and lipoprotein(a) (Lpfal)
20. MAJOR CLASSES OF HUMAN PLASMA LIPOPROTEINS: CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
Protein (%) Cholesterol(%) | Cholesteryl | Triglyceride (%) | Phospholipid (%)
Esters (%)
Chylomicrons 1-2 1-3 2-4 80-98 3-6
VLDL 6-10 4-8 16-22 45-65 715-20
TDL Intermediate between VLDL and LDL
LOL 18-22 6-8 45 - 50 4-8 28-24
HDL 45-55 3-5 15-20 2-7 26 - 32
CHARACTERISTICS OF HUMAN APOLIPOPROTEINS AND THEIR VARIANTS (Bishop 3" Ed.)
APOLIPOPROTEINS | FUNCTIONS MAJOR SOURCE
‘Apo A-l Major structural protein in HDL Liver and intestine
Activates LCAT
Ligand for HDL binding
‘Apo Act ‘Structural protein in HDL Liver
Activates LCAT
Enhances hepatic triglyceride lipase activity
‘Apo AW ‘Component of intestinal ipoproteins Intestine
‘Apo B-100 Major structural protein in VLDL and LDL Liver
Ligand for the LDL receptor
‘Apo B48 Primarily structural protein in chylomicrons intestine
‘Apo C-1 Activates lipoprotein lipase Liver
‘Apo C-Il Activates lipoprotein lipase Liver
Activates LCAT
‘Apo Cell Inhibits ipoprotein lipase Liver
| inhibits receptor recognition of apo E
‘Apo E2,3.4 | Binds to LDL-receptor and remnant-eceptor Liver
‘Apo (a) ‘Structural protein for Lp (a) Liver
May inhibit plasminogen binding
*LCAT, lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase
“There are many minor apolipoproteins, such as apo D, apo J, apo H, apo F, and apo G.
BLOOD LIPOPROTEIN PATTERNS IN PATIENTS WITH HYPERLIPOPROTEINEMIA
TYPE LIPOPROTEIN PATTERN"
1 Extremely elevated TG due to the presence of chylomicrons
ila Elevated LOL
Ub, Elevated LDL and VLDL
WL Elevated cholesterol, TG; presence of (-VLDL
Vv Elevated VLDL.
Vv Elevated VLDL and presence of chylomicrons
21. B-VLDL (‘floating 6" lipoprotein) is an abnormal lipoprotein that accumulates in type 3 hypertipoproteinemia. It is richer
in cholesterol than VLDL and apparently results from the defective catabolism of VLDL. The particle is found in the VLDL
density range but migrates electrophoretically with or near LDL. (Henry)
22. Lp(a) has a density similar to LDL, but migrates similarly to VLDL on electrophoresis. Thus it can be detected when the d
> 1.008 gimL protein is examined electrophoretically. When Lp(a) is present in concentrations exceeding 20-30 mg/dL.
(Le., when it contributes more than about 10 mg/dL to the LDL-C measurement) an additional band with pre-B mobility is
also observed in the d > 1.006 kg/L fraction (hence the name sinking pre-f-lipoprotein). (Henry)
23. LpX is an abnormal lipoprotein found in patients with obstructive biliary disease, and in patients with familial
lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) deficiency. (Henry)
24, NATIONAL CHOLESTEROL EDUCATION PROGRAM (ADULT TREATMENT PANEL Ill CLASSIFICATION)
TOTAL CHOLESTEROL REFERENCE RANGE
Desirable Borderline high High
Total cholesterol (mg/dL) <200 7200-239 = 240
HDL CHOLESTEROL REFERENCE RANGE
Protective against The higher, Major risk factor for
heart disease the better heart disease
HDL cholesterol (mg/dL) = 60 40-59 <40Page
Is
LDL CHOLESTEROL REFERENCE RANGE
Optimal Near optimal | Borderline high High Very high
LDL _cholesterot <100 100-129 130-159 160-189 >190
(mgidt)
TRIGLYCERIDE REFERENCE RANGE
Normal Borderline high High Very high
Triglyceride (mg/dL) <150 150-199 200-499 2 500
25,_NCEP Guidelines for Acceptable Measurement Error (Henry)
ANALYTE TOTAL ERROR BIAS cv
Cholesterol <9% 53% 53%
Triglyceride 15% <5% <5%
HDL-cholesterol 13% <5%
40
Percentage of diabetics <10 % [280%
Ketone bodies Usually [Rarely
Obestity at onset Rare [Commonly
‘Serum insulin Very tow Normal or high
30. The standard clinical specimen is venous plasma glucose. Glucose is metabolized at foom temperature at a rate
of 7 mg/dL/hour (0.4 mmovL/noury; at 4° C, the loss is approximately 2 Mg/AL/hOUT. The rate of metabolism is
higher with bacterial contamination or leukocytosis, (Henry)
31. Before an OGTT is performed, individuals should ingest at least 150 giday of carbohydrates for the 3 days
preceding the test without limitation in physical activity, and the test should be performed after an overnight 8- to 14-hour
fast. The individual should not eat food, drink tea, coffee, or alcohol, or smoke cigarettes during the test, and should be
seated. Venous glucose samples are preferably collected in gray-fop tubes containing fluoride and an anticoagulant.
(Henry)
32. Whole blood glucose specimens can be analyzed with point-of-care devices. These monitoring devices are used in the
home, in the physician's office, or at the bedside in the hospital to monitor for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. Most of
these devices have been calibrated to give results similar to plasma levels and can report plasma or whole blood
readings. Whole blood tends to give approximately 10%-15% lower glucose readings than plasma, but the
Percentage varies on the basis of hematocrit, analysis technique, and sample timing (fasting vs. postglucose load).
(Henry)Page 16
33. As little as 10% contamination with 5% dextrose will increase glucose in a blood sample by 800 mg/dL or more. (from
Dean Rodriquez Clinical Chemistry Review Handbook, 2012)
34. Copper reduction methods for Glucose Estimation
Nelson-Somogyi | Glucose method reduces copper in hot alkaline solution to cuprous ion which in tum reduces
arsenomolybdic acid in a greenish blue complex
Folin-Wu Glucose reduces copper in hot alkaline solution fo Cuprous lon which in tum reduces phosphomolybdic
acid forming a blue complex of molybdenum oxide
Neocuproine | Cuprous ions were formed by the reduction of cupric with glucose. Neocuproine (2, 9 - dimethyl-1, 10 -
method phenanthroline hydrochloride) specifically complexes with cuprous ions to form a yellow color
36. The Michaelis-Menten hypothesis of the relationship between reaction velocity and substrate concentration can be
represented mathematically as follows
V= Vmax [S]/ Km + [S]
where Vis measured velocity of reaction, Vimax is maximum velocity, [S] is substrate concentration, and Km is Michaelis-
Menten constant of enzyme for specific substrate,
36. In 1913, Michaelis and Menten hypothesized the role of substrate concentration in formation of the enzyme-—substrate
(ES) complex. According to their hypothesis, the substrate readily binds to free enzyme at a low-substrate concentration,
‘With the amount of enzyme exceeding the amount of substrate, the reaction rate steadily increases as more substrate is,
added. The reaction is following first-order kinetics because the reaction rate is directly proportional to
substrate concentration. Eventually, however, the substrate concentration is high enough to saturate all available
‘enzyme, and the reaction velocity reaches its maximum, When product is formed, the resultant free enzyme immediately
‘combines with excess free substrate. The reaction is in zero-order kinetics, and the reaction rate depends only
‘on enzyme concentration. (Bishop)
37. One of two general methods may be used to measure the extent of an enzymatic reaction: (1) fixed-time and (2)
continuous-monitoring or kinetic assay.
in the fixed time method, the reactants are combined, the reaction proceeds for a designated time, the reaction is stopped
(usually by inactivating the enzyme with a weak acid), and a measurement is made of the amount of reaction that has
‘occurred. The reaction is assumed to be linear over the reaction time; the larger the reaction, the more enzyme is present
In continuous-monitoring or kinetic assays, multiple measurements, usually of absorbance change, are made during the
reaction, either at specific time intervals (usually every 30 or 60 seconds) or continuously by @ continuous- recording
spectrophotometer.
38. ENZYME CLASSES
CLASS | CATEGORY TYPE OF REACTION CATALYZED EXAMPLES
1 | Oxidoreductase | Oxidation/reduction reactions Lactate dehydrogenase
Glucose-6-phosphate
dehydrogenase
Glutamate dehydrogenase
2 | Transferase | Transfer of intact group of atoms from one molecule to | Aspartate aminotransferase
another ‘Alanine aminotransferase
Creatine kinase
Gamma glutamyltransferase
Gluthione-S-transferase
Glycogen phosphorylase
Pyruvate kinase
3 | Hydrolase Cleavage of bonds with water Alkaline phosphatase
Acid phosphatase
Amylase
Triacylglycerol lipase
Cholinesterase
Chymotyrpsin
Elastase-1
S-nucleotidase
Trypsin
4 | Lyases Cleavage of C-C, C-0, C-Nor other types of bonds; does | Aldolase
‘ot involve water
5 __| Isomerases Convert one isomer to another "Triosephosphate Isomerase
6 | Ligases ‘Bond formation between two groups of atoms; with ATP as | Glutathione synthetase
energy source
39, MAJOR ENZYMES OF CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
ENZYME CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
1._Acid phosphatase (ACP) Prostatic carcinoma
2._Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) Hepatic disorder
3._ Aldolase (ALD) ‘Skeletal muscle disorder
4. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) Hepatic disorder
Bone disorderENZYME
Page |7
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
‘Amylase (AMS)
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)
‘Aoute pancreatitis,
Blood pressure regulation
solo
‘Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
Myocardial infarction
Hepatic disorder
‘Skeletal muscle disorder
'8._Chymotrypsin (CHY)
Chronic pancreatitis insufficiency
‘9. Creatine kinase (CK)
Myocardial infarction
Skeletal muscle disorder
10, Elasiase-1 (E1 Chronic pancreatitis insufficiency
11, Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) Drug-induced hemolytic anemia
12, Glutamate dehydrogenase (GL) Hepatic disorder
13, y-Glutamyltransferase (GGT) Hepatic disorder
14, Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) Hepatic disorder
15. Glycogen phosphorylase (GP) ‘Acute myocardial infarction
16. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) Myocardial infarction
Hepatic disorder
Hemolysis
Carcinoma
17. Lipase (LPS) ‘Acute pancreatitis,
18, 5-Nucleotidase Hepatic disorder
19, Pseudocholinesterase (PChE) Organophosphate poisoning
20. Pyruvate kinase (PK)
Genetic variants
Hepatic disorder
‘Suxamethonium sensitivity
Hemolytic anemia
21. Trypsin (TRY) ‘Acute pancreatitis
40._CONDITIONS AFFECTING TOTAL LACTATE DEHYDROGENASE
PRONOUNCED ELEVATION MODERATE ELEVATION ‘SLIGHT ELEVATION
(5. OR MORE TIMES NORMAL)
(3-5 TIMES NORMAL)
(UP TO 3 TIMES NORMAL)
Megaloblastic anemia
Widespread carcinomatosis, especially
hepatic metastases
‘Systemic shock and hypoxia
Hepatitis
Renal infarction
Myocardial infarction
Pulmonary infarction
Hemolytic conditions
Leukemias
Infectious mononucleosis
Delirium tremens
Muscular dystrophy
Most liver diseases
Nephrotic syndrome
Hypothyroidism
Cholangitis
CONDITIONS AFFECTING CK
‘PRONOUNCED ELEVATION
(5 OR MORE TIMES NORMAL)
Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy
Polymyositis,
Dermatomyositis
Myocardial infarction
injections
Hypothyroidism
MILD OR MODERATE ELEVATION
(2-4 TIMES NORMAL)
‘Severe exercise, trauma, surgical procedure, intramuscular
Delirium tremens, alcoholic myopathy
Myocardial infarction, severe ischemic injury
Pulmonary infarction
Pulmonary edema (some patients)
Acute agitated psychoses
CONDITIONS AFFECTING AST
PRONOUNCED ELEVATION MODERATE ELEVATION SLIGHT ELEVATION
(5. OR MORE TIMES NORMAL) (3-5 TIMES NORMAL) (UP TO 3 TIMES NORMAL)
‘Acute hepatocelluar damage Biliary tract obstruction Pericarditis
Myocardial infarction Cardiac arryhythmias Cirrhosis
Circulatory collapse (shock)
Acute pancreatitis
Infectious mononucleosis
Congestive heart failure
Metastatic or primary tumor in liver
Muscular dystrophy
Pulmonary infarction
Delirium tremens
Cerebrovascular accident
CONDITIONS AFFECTING ALP
PRONOUNCED ELEVATION MODERATE ELEVATION ‘SLIGHT ELEVATION
(5 OR MORE TIMES NORMAL) (3-5 TIMES NORMAL) (UP TO 3 TIMES NORMAL)
Bile duct obstruction (intrahepatic or | Granulomatous or inftrative diseases of | Viral hepatitis
extrahepatic) liver Cirrhosis
Biliary cirrhosis
Osteitis deformans (Paget's disease)
Osteogenic sarcoma
Hyperparathyroidism
Infectious mononucleosis
Metastatic tumors in bone
Metabolic bone diseases (rickets,
osteomalacia)
Healing fractures
Pregnancy (placental isoenzyme
conspicuous)
Normal growth pattems in childrenPage |8
41._ CHARACTERISTICS OF ISOENZYMES OF ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE,
‘SOURCE OF ENZYME INHIBITION BY ‘ORDER
L-phenylalanine (%) Heat or Urea (%) ANODAL MIGRATION
Liver 10 60. 1
Bone 10 90. 2
intestine 75. 60. 4
Placenta 80. 0 3
Regan (carcinoma) 80, 0 3
Measurement of Total ALP Activity
REACTION NAME T ‘SUBSTRATE USED ‘COMMENTS
‘Shinowara-Jones-Reinhart | Beta-glycerophosphate Long incubation time; high blank values
King-Armstrong | Phenylphosphate Endpoint, requires protein removal
Bessey-Lowry-Brock | p-Nitrophenylphosphate Endpoint or kinetic, rapid
Bowers-McComb P-Nitrophenyiphosphate Uses phosphate-accepting buffer,
reference method
42,_Measurement of Total ACP Activity
REACTION NAME ‘SUBSTRATE USED ‘COMMENTS
Bodansky Beta-glycerophosphate Lengthy assay, nonspecific
Gutman, King-Armstrong Phenylphosphate Nonspecific
Hudson p-Nitrophenylphosphate Rapid, nonspecific
‘Babson and Reed Alpha-naphthylphosphate Complicated, less sensitive
Roy [Thymolphthalein monophosphate | More specific for prostatic form
Rietz, Guilbault 4-Methylumbeliferonephosphate Fluorescent, some improved sensitivity
43. Interferences with the assay of total acid phosphatase: A variety of factors produce low levels of acid phosphatase.
fluoride inhibits the enzyme. Selection of a proper anticoagulant is important, since both oxalate and heparin have been
shown to produce decreased activity. Storage conditions are critical since changes in pH and prolonged storage at room
temperature both result in loss of enzyme activity
‘The major factor producing flase elevations is hemolysis. Since the erythrocytes contain significant amounts of acid
phosphatase, loss of enzyme from these cells strongly influences the value obtained from a serum or plasma sample.
Failure to use an anticoagulant, results in release of enzyme from platelets, contributing to an increase in the
amount of enzyme measured.in methodologies that measure product formation at 410 nm or near this
wavelength), hemoglobin and bilirubin in high concentrations contribute to the absorbance and yield falsely
elevated enzyme values. (Calbreath)
44, ENZYMES IN CARDIAC DISORDERS
AMI occurs when there is abrupt reduction in blood flow to a region of myocardial tissue, usually caused by
atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries.
Enzyme | Onset of Elevation (h) T Duration of Elevation (days)
cK 48 34
KM | 48 23
‘AST 8-12 5
LD 12:24 10
45. Demonstration of elevated levels of CK-MB, greater than or equal to 6% of the total CK, is considered a good indicator of
myocardial damage, particularly AMI, Other nonenzyme proteins, called troponins, have been found to be even more
specific and may elevate in the absence of CK-MB elevations. Following myocardial infarction, the CK-MB levels
begin to rise within 4 to 8 hours, peak at 12 to 24 hours, and retum to normal levels within 48 to 72 hours.
@ishop)
46. CK: Tanzer-Gilvarg method assesses the rate of the forward reaction in which creatine is converted to creatine
phosphate,
47. CK: Oliver-Rosalki, the reverse reaction in which creatine is produced from creatine phosphate.
48. LD: The Wacker Method (forward) for quantitation of LD activity utilizes the lactate -» pyruvate reaction with th
formation of NADH from NAD, The 340 nm absorbance can be read directly, allowing kinetic assays to be performed
49. LD: The Wroblewski-LaDue method employs the reverse reaction: pyruvate > lactate. In this situation NADH serves
as a cosubstrate and is consumed during the course of the reaction. If kinetic measurement activity is carried out, a
decrease in 340 nm absorbance is observed.Page 19
50. ISOENZYMES OF LACTATE DEHYDROGENASE.
ISOENZYME CHAIN ‘APPROXIMATE % OF TOTAL NORMALLY TISSUE RICH IN THE
COMPOSITION PRESENT IN SERUM ISOENZYME
UD; HHHH 29-37 Heart, brain, erythrocytes
LD» HHHM 42-48 Heart, brain, erythrocytes
LD: HHNIM 16-20 Brain, kidne}
LD. HMMM. 2-4 Liver, skeletal muscle, kidney
LDs MMMM 05-15 Liver, skeletal muscle, ileum
51. Routine measurement of electrolytes usually involves only Na’, K°, CI, and HCO; (as total CO,). These values may be
used to approximate the anion gap (AG), which is the difference between unmeasured anions and unmeasured cations,
(Bishop)
52. There are two commonly used methods for calculating the anion gap.
The first equation is
AG = Na’ - (CI + HCOs)
‘The reference range for the AG using this calculation is 7-16 mmol/L.
The second calculation method is
AG = (Na’+ K’) - (CI' + HCO)
Ithas a reference range of 10-20 mmol.
An elevated anion gap may be caused by uremia/renal failure, which leads to PO, and SO,” retention; ketoacidosis, as
Seen in cases of starvation or diabetes, methanol, ethandl ‘ethylene. glycol potsoning, or salicylate; lactic. acidosis,
hypernatremia; and instrument error. Low anion gap values are rare but may be seen with hypoalbuminemia (decrease
in unmeasured anions) or severe hypercalcemia (increase in unmeasured cations. (Bishop)
53. All sodium ions must be neutralized by counter-ions, most of which, in blood, are constituted by chloride and bicarbonate
ions, and, to a lesser degree, by phosphate, sulfate, and protein carboxylate groups. Normal serum sodium is about 140
MEQ/L, chloride is usually around 100 mEgiL, and bicarbonate around 2 mEq/L. The anion gap is then defined as Na+
={Cl- + HCO5-), which for normal individuals is around 16. This 16 mEq/L really accounts for the other counter-ions that
neutralize sodium but are not measured in serum.
54. Renin-angiotensin system (RAS): hormones, renin, angiotensin, and aldosterone work together to regulate blood
pressure. A sustained fall in blood pressure causes the kidney to release renin. This is converted to angiotensin in
the circulation. Angiotensin then raises blood pressure directly by arteriolar constriction and stimulates the suprarenal
glands to produce aldosterone that promotes sodium and water retention by kidney, such that blood volume and blood
pressure increase.
55. About 70% of T4 is bound to thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG), 20% to transthyretin (formerty called binding
prealbumin), and 10% to albumin. (Henry)
56, LABORATORY VALUES IN HYPOTHYROIDISM AND HYPERTHYROIDISM
LABORATORY VALUES IN TABORATORY VALUES IN
HYPOTHYROIDISM. HYPERTHYROIDISM.
T4, total Decreased T4, total Increased
T4, free Decreased T4, free Increased
73, direct Decreased 3, direct Increased
3 uptake Decreased TS uptake Increased
TSG Normal TEC Normal or decreased
TSH Increased TSH Low-normal or
undetectable
57. MAJOR ENDOGRINE GLANDS AND THEIR HORMONES.
ENDOCRINE HORMONE FUNCTION HYPOSECRETION | _HYPERSECRETION
GLAND
“Anterior Pituitary | Growth hormone (GH) _| Major effects are Hyposecretion during | Hypersecretion produces:
Gland ‘Somatotropin directed to the growth | childhood leads to ‘| gigantism (in childhood)
(adenohypophysis) | Most abundant of skeletal muscles —_| pituitary dwarfism | and acromegaly (in
hormone of the and long bones of the adulthood)
anterior pituitary bod
Prolactin (PRL) ‘Stimulates production
of breast milk.
‘Adrenocorticotropic | Stimulates adrenal
hormone (ACTH) cortex to release its
hormones.
Thyrolropic hormone | Stimulates the thyroid
(TH) gland to release
‘Thyroid-stimulating thyroid hormones
hormoneENDOCRINE
GLAND
HORMONE
FUNCTION
HYPOSECRETION
Page |10
HYPERSECRETION
Anterior Pituitary
Gland
(adenohypophysis)
Follcie-stimulating
hormone (FSH)
Luteinizing hormone
aH
Beginning at puberty,
stimulates follicle
development and
estrogen production by
female ovaries;
promotes sperm
| production in males
‘Beginning at puberty,
stimulates ovulation,
converts the ruptured
ovarian follicle to a
corpus luteum, and
causes the corpus
luteum to produce
progesterone;
stimulates male testes
to produce
testosterone
‘Sterility in both male
and female
Sterility in both male
and female
Posterior Pituitary
Gland
(neurohypophysis)
Oxytocin
Released in significant
amounts only during
childbirth and in nursing
women
‘Stimulates powerful
uterine contractions
and causes milk
ejection in nursing
woman
‘Antidiuretic hormone
(ADH)
Vasopressin
‘Causes kidney tubule
cells to reabsor and
conserve body water
and increases blood
pressure by
constricting arterioles
Diabetes insipidus
Thyroid Gland
Parathyroid Glands
Thyroxine (12)
Triiodothyronine (
Body's metabolic
hormone. It increases
the rate at which cells
oxidize glucose and is
necessary for normal
growth and
development.
Hyposecretion of
thyroxine results in
cretinism in children
Hypersecretion results
from Grave's disease
and other forms of
hyperthyroidism
Calcitonin
| Parathyroid hormone
(PTH)
‘Causes calcium to be
deposited in long
| bones
‘Causes bone calcium
to be liberated to blood
Hyposecretion results
in tetany
Hypersecretion leads to
extreme bone wasting
and fractures
‘Adrenal Cortex
Adrenal Cortex
Mineralocorticoids
mainly aldosterone
(outermost)
Glucocorticoids which
include cortisone and
cortisol
(Middle)
‘Sex hommones -
androgens (male) with
‘some estrogen (female)
Regulate sodium and
potassium ion
reabsorption by the
kidneys. Their release
is primaniy stimulated
by low Na’ high K”
| levels in the blood.
Enable the body to
resist long-term stress
by increasing blood
glucose levels and
decreasing the
inflammatory
response,
‘A generalized
hypoactivity of
adrenal cortex leads
to Addison's disease
Hypersecretion of
adrenal cortex hormones
can result in
hyperaldosteronism,
Cushing's disease,
and/or masculinization
(innermost)
‘Adrenal Medulla | Catecholamines: Hypersecretion leads to
Epinephrine symptoms typical of
(adrenaline) ‘symphathetic nervous
Norepinephrine activity
(noradrenaline)Page |12
ENDOCRINE HORMONE FUNCTION HYPOSECRETION | HYPERSECRETION
GLAND
Islets of Tasulin Tnoreases the rate of | Diabetes melitus
Langerhans of the glucose uptake and
Pancreas by beta cells metabolism by body
cells
‘Glucagon ‘Stimulates the liver to
release glucose to
by alpha cells blood, thus increasing
blood glucose levels
‘Ovaries Estrogen ‘Stimulates the Hyposecretion
‘maturation of the hampers the ability of
female reproductive | a woman to conceive
organs and and bear children
development of
secondary sex
characteristics of the
female; in cooperation
with progesterone, it
causes the menstrual
cycle
Progesterone Ttworks with estrogen | Hyposecretion
in establishing the hampers the ability of
‘menstrual cycle ‘a woman to conceive
and bear children
Testes Testosterone Promotes maturation | In cases of
of the male hyposecretion, the
reproductive organs, | man becomes sterile
male secondary sex _| (sterility)
characteristics, and
production of sperm by
testes
Pineal Gland Melatonin Affects biological
rhythms and
reproductive behavior
Thymus gland Thymosin ‘Cause the maturation
of T lymphocytes
58. Anatomically, the adrenal is divided into two distinct parts: The medulla (inner layer) and the cortex (outer layer). The
medulla, which is of neural crest origin (ectoderm), stores and secretes catecholamines. The cortex is of mesenchymal
origin and is further divided into three zones: The outermost zona glomerulosa, which produces mineralocorticoids;
the zona fasciculata, which is responsible for glucocorticoid production; and the inner zona reticularis, which
‘synthesizes androgens. (Henry)
59. Estrogens are responsible for growth of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and vagina, promotion of breast development,
maturation of the external genitalia, deposition of body fat into the female distribution, and termination of linear growth.
Estradiol is the most potent of the estrogens.
60._DISEASE STATE HORMONE LEVEL
Male
Primary deficiency __Klinefelter’s syndrome High High Low 5
‘Secondary deficiency Panhypopituitarism Low Low Low S
Primary excess Testicular tumor Low Low High e
Secondary excess Precocious puberty High High High =
Other ‘Seminiferous tubule failure High Normal ‘Normal =
Other Parlial androgen insensitivity Normal High High =
Female
Primary deficiency _ Menopause High High = Low
Secondary deficiency Sheehan's syndrome Low Low = Low
[Classification Example FSH LH Testosterone Estradiol |
Primary excess Feminizing ovarian tumor Low Low Ee High
Secondary excess Gonadotropin-producing tumor (rare) High High = High
Other Polyoystic ovarian syndrome _ Normal High High =
Other Masculinizing ovarian tumor Low Low High =Page |12
61. In some individuals, high levels of blood cholesterol or triglycerides are caused by genetic abnormalities in which either
too much is synthesized or too little is removed. High levels of cholesterol and/or triglycerides in most people, however,
are a result of increased consumption of foods rich in fat and cholesterol, smoking, and lack of exercise or a result of other
disorders or disease states that affect lipid metabolism, such as diabetes, hypertension, hypothyroidism, obesity, liver
and kidney diseases, and alcoholism.
62. Henderson-Hasselbalch equation: equation that mathematically describes the dissociation characteristics of weak acids
and bases and the effect on pH; pH = pKa (6.1) + log of the ratio of bicarbonate to carbon dioxide (HCOs/H:CO3).
@ishop)
63. Potentiometry is the measurement of electrical potential due to the activity of free ions - change in volatage indicates
activity of each analyte. Uses: pH and pCOs tests. (from Dean Rodriquez Clinical Chemistry Review Handbook, 2012)
64. Amperometry is the measurement of the current flow produces by an oxidation reaction. Uses: pO», glucose, chloride
‘and peroxidase determinations. (from Dean Rodriquez Clinical Chemistry Review Handbook, 2012)
65. For each degree of fever in the patient, pO» will fall 7% and pCO, will rise 3%. (from Dean Rodriquez Clinical Chemistry
Review Handbook, 2012)
66. DRUGS OF ABUSE
1. Opiates
© Chemical modification of natural products yields heroin and hydrocodone
© Fully synthetic opiods are meperidine (Demerol) and methadone
2. Amphetamines
3. Cocaine
© Derived from the leaves of coca plant (Genus Erythroxylon)
4. Cannabinoids
Marijuana from the flowers of the hemp plant
Hashish from the resin of the hemp
5. Phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust) and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)
6. Ethyl alcohol (ethanol, grain alcohol)
‘Most commonly abused substance in the US, and probably in the entire World
INFLUENCE OF ACUTE ETHANOL INGESTION ON ETHANOL LEVELS AND BEHAVIOR
STAGES OF IMPAIRMENT BY ETHANOL,
BLOOD ALCOHOL ‘SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS,
(% wiv)
0.01 — 0.05 No obvious impairment, some changes observable on performance testing
0.03 - 0.12 Mild euphoria, decreased inhibitions, some impairment of motor skills
0.09 0.25 Decreased inhibitions, loss of eritical judgment, memory impairment, diminished reaction time
0.18 0.30 Mental confusion, dizziness, strongly impaired motor skills (staggering, slurred speech)
0.27 0.40 Unable to stand or walk, vomiting, impaired consciousness
0.35- 0.50 Coma and possible death
‘Whiskey Blood Concentration Tnfluence
(Ounces)
1-2 10 - 50 mg/dL (2.2 - 10.9 mmol/L) | None to mild euphoria
34 50 - 100 mg/dL (10.9 - 21.7 mmol/L) Mild influence on stereoscopic vision and dark
adaptation
or greater 100 mg/dL. (21.7 mmol/L) Legally intoxicated
46 100 - 150 mg/dL (21.7 - 32.6 mmol/L) Euphoria; disappearance of inhibition; prolonged
reaction time
67 150 - 200 mg/dL (32.6 - 43.4 mmol/L) Moderately severe poisoning; reaction time greatly
prolonged: loss of inhibition and slight disturbances
| in equilibrium and coordination
e9 200 - 250 mg/dL (43.4 - 84.3 mmol/L) ‘Severe degree of poisoning; disturbances of
equilibrium and coordination; retardation of the
thought processes and clouding of consciousness
10-15 | 250 - 400 mg/d (64.3 - 86.8 mmol/L) Deep, possibly fatal comaPage [43
POISONING
1. GASES
‘© Carbon monoxide ~ results from incomplete combustion of carbon-containing material in fires, gasoline engines
and cigarette smoke (mtd: spectrophotometry and co-oximetry)
© Cyanide — in the form of hydrocyanic acid (HEN, prussic acid), used as rodentcide and insecticide; odor of bitter
almonds (mid: spectrophotometry)
2. HEAVY METALS
‘© Methods for determination:
Atomic absorption spectrophotometry
Anodic stripping voltametry
Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Reinsch test (antimony, arsenic, bismuth, mercury and selenium)
© Iron = from iron-containing tablet and solution; children prone to accidental ingestion of large amounts of iron
resulting in toxicity
© Lead ~ present in paints, gasoline (formerly), and storage batteries, some eating utensils, plates and ceramics,
drinking water form lead pipes
© Arsenic — in insecticides, pesticides and herbicides; high affinity for keratin
‘© Cadmium ~ ingestion of acidic foods stored or prepared in metal containers composed or lined with cadmium;
industrial exposure
© Mercury ~ used in industry and farming
© Aluminum ~ abundant in Earth's crust and is widely present in the environment; aluminum toxicity has been noted
in patients who are receive long-term hemodialysis
3. BROMIDE
‘© Once widely used as an analgesic but it has been removed because of its toxicities
‘© Measured in the serum by spectrophotometric methods
67. Cocaine’s short halflife is a result of rapid hepatic hydrolysis to inactive metabolites. This is the major route of
elimination. Only a small portion of the parent drug can be found in urine after an administered dose, The primary product
of hepatic metabolism is benzoylecgonine, which is primarily eliminated in urine. The half-life of benzoylecgonine is 4~7
hours. The presence of this metabolite in urine is a sensitive and specific indicator of cocaine use. It can be detected in
urine for up to 3 days after a single use. In chronic heavy abusers, it can be detected in urine for up to 20 days after the
last dose. The primary screening procedure for identification of cocaine use is detection of benzoylecgonine in urine by
immunoassay. Confirmation testing is done by GC/MS. (Bishop)
68. Cannabinoids are a group of psychoactive compounds found in marijuana. Of these, THC is the most potent and
abundant. Marijuana, or its processed product, hashish, can be smoked or ingested. (Bishop)
69. The most specific and sensitive method for drug screening is the coupling of gas chromatography to mass
spectrometry. (Calbreath)
70. THERAPEUTIC DRUGS
‘CARDIOTROPICS
Most commonly used to treat congestive hear failure and
Digitalis glycosides: digoxin and digitoxin
Procainamide (Pronestyl)
cardiac arrythmias Quinidine
Lidocaine (Xylocaine)
Propranolol
Disopyramide
“ANTICONVULSANTS Phenobarbital
Used in the treatment of seizure disorders, in particular grand
‘mal, petit mal, and psychomotor seizures and other
generalized seizure disorders such as tic douloreux
(trigeminal neuralgia)
Phenytoin (Ditantin)
Primidone (Mysoline)
Ethosuximide (Zarontin)
Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
Valproic acid (Depakene)
“ANTIASTHMATICS.
‘ANTIINFLAMMATORY DRUGS
Theophylline
Most commonly prescribed anti-asthmatic drug
Bronchodilator for the treatment of moderate to severe
asthma, both for the prevention of attacks and for treatment
of symptomatic exacerbations.
‘Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Acetyisalicylic acid
IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVES Cyclosporine
Prednisone
Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
‘CHEMOTHERAPEUTIC AGENTS: Methothrexate
An anti-neoplastic agent
Important immunosuppressive agent used in the treatment of
psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and some collagen vascular
diseasesPage |14
DRUGS FOR TREATMENT OF MANIC-DEPRESSION Lithium — anti-manic agent and are used for the prophylaxis
Used in the treatment of psychiatric affective disorders, and treatment of bipolar disorder (manic-depressive
psychosis)
Tricyclic Antidepressants: Amitriptyline, Imipramine,
Nortriptyline, Desipramine, Doxepin
71. BENZODIAZEPINES: Among this group of drugs, the most prominent is VALIUM; they are used therapeutically, as so-
called minor tranquilizers.
72. ASPIRIN (acetylsalicylic acid) is a commonly used analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory drug. Several
immunoassay methods are available; the most common is a chromogenic assay known as the TRINDER reaction, which
reacts salicylate with ferric nitrate to form a colored complex that is then evaluated spectrophotometrically.
73. ACETAMINOPHEN, either solely or in combination with other compounds, is a commonly used analgesic drug. In healthy
subjects, therapeutic dosages have few adverse effects. Overdose of acetaminophen, however, is associated with a
severe HEPATOTOXICITY.
74. The goal of drug administration is to achieve the therapeutic range, that level of concentration in the bloodstream which
provides the optimum amount of medication for treatment of the clinical disorder. A blood level of medication below the
therapeutic range is considered subtherapeutic, meaning it provides no clinical benefit. (Calbreath)
75. TUMOR MARKERS (from Dean Rodriquez Clinical Chemistry Review Handbook, 2012)
TUMOR MARKERS ‘ASSOCIATED CANCERS:
‘AFP Hepatic and testicular cancers
ALP (placental ALP) ‘Lung cancer
‘Amylase Pancreatic cancer
BRCA1 Breast or ovarian cancer
CA-125 ‘Ovarian cancer (treatment and recurrence)
CA-15.3 Breast cancer ((reatment and recurrence)
CA-19.9 Gastric, pancreatic and colorectal cancers
CA-50 Gastric and pancreatic cancers (treatment and recurrence)
(CA-27.20 Breast cancer (treatment and recurrence)
Calcitonin Medullary thyroid canoer
Cathepsin-D Breast cancer
CEA Colorectal, stomach, breast, lung cancer (Weatment and
recurrence)
a ‘Small cell lung cancer, prostate cancer
Estrogen receptor (ER) Breast cancer
‘GGT Hepatoma
HER-2mneu Breast cancer (efficiency of frastuzumab or herceptin therapy)
Nuclear matrix protein (NMP) Urinary bladder cancer
From Dean Rodiiquez Cinical Chemistry Review Fandbook 2072
76. Capillary blood is the preferred specimen for some tests, such as newborn screening tests. (Bishop
77. Delta check: an algorithm in which the most recent result of a patient is compared with the previously determined value,
78. MULTI-RULE PROCEDURES: The “multirule” procedure was developed by Westgard and Groth to further judge whether
control results indicate out-of-control situations,
125 One control observation exceeding the mean + 2s. A warning rule that initiates testing of control data by other
rules,
13s One control observation exceeding the mean + 3s. Allows high sensitivity to random error.
22s Two control observations consecutively exceeding the same + 2s or - 2s. Allows high sensitivity to systematic
error.
Ris One control exceeding the + 2s and another exceeding the - 2s. Allows detection of random error
41 Four consecutive control observations exceeding + 1s or 1s, Ths allows the detection of systematic error.
10, Ten consecutive control observations falling on one side or the other of the mean (no requirement for SD size).
This allows the detection of systematic error.
79. RANDOM ERROR is one with no trend or means of predicting it, Random errors include such situations as mislabelling a
sample, pipeting errors, improper mixing of sample and reagent, voltage fluctuations not compensated for by instrument
circuitry, and temperature fluctuations. Violations of the 1(28), 1(38) and R(4S) Westgard rules are usually associated
with random error. To assess the situation, the sample is assayed using the same reagents. If a random error occurred,
the same mistake may not be made again, and the result will be within appropriate control limits. (Calbreath)Page [45
80. A SYSTEMATIC ERROR, on the other hand, will be seen as a trend in the data. Control values gradually rise (or fall) from
the previously established limits. This type of error includes improper calibration, deterioration of reagents, sample
instability, instrument drift, or changes in standard materials. All the Westgard rules that indicate trends identify systematic
errors. 2(28), 4(1S) and 10(x) rule,
If reassay does not correct the problem by bringing the control values within the + 2SD range, further analysis of the data
is necessary. A stepwise evaluation of the procedure needs to be carried out to determine where the problem lies. This
examination could include preparing new control materials, restandardizing the assay, checking wavelength or other
instrument settings, or making new reagents, The past history of the specific test may be helpful in deciding which steps
take first. Reagents that are close to their expiration date should be discarded and remade. The laboratory records for
calibration and the calibration schedule may point to a need for a new standard curve. The process should proceed in a
logical fashion to identify and correct the problem. Adequate records should be kept of each step. Good documentation
will permit easier correction of the problem in the future. (Calbreath)
81. TREND: values for the control that continue to either increase or decrease over a period of 6 consecutive days (PER)
82. Trend is formed by control values that either increase or decrease for six consecutive days. Main cause is deterioration
reagents. (from Dean Rodriquez Clinical Chemistry Review Handbook, 2012)
83. SHIFT: 6 or more consecutive daily values that distribute themselves on one side of the mean value line, but maintain a
constant level (e.g, an increase shift) might be due to deterioration of a standard but is remedied by preparation of a new
standard. (PER)
84. Shift is formed by control values that distribute themselves on one side or either side of the mean for six consecutive
days. Shift in the reference range is due to transient instrument differences. Main cause is improper calibration of
instrument. (from Dean Rodriquez Clinical Chemistry Review Handbook, 2012)
85, Outliers are control values that are far from the main set of values. They are highly deviating values and are caused by
random or systematic error. (from Dean Rodriquez Clinical Chemistry Review Handbook, 2012)
88. VARIABLES: Statistical questions are often posed in terms of input versus output, cause and effect, or correlation
between two or more variables. The input or cause is considered an independent variable because it is already
determined and so is not influenced by other factors. Examples of independent variables are age, gender, temperature,
and time. In contrast, dependent variables are those things that might change in response to the independent variable.
Examples of dependent variables are blood glucose concentration, enzyme activities, and the presence or absence of
malignancy. For graphical display, the INDEPENDENT VARIABLE IS PLOTTED ALONG THE HORIZONTAL (X) AXIS
OR ABSCISSA, WHILE DEPENDENT VARIABLES ARE PLOTTED ALONG THE VERTICAL (Y) AXIS OR ORDINATE.
(Henry)
87. The t test, also called the paired t test or the student t test compares the accuracy of two methods in that it tests the
difference between the mean value of each procedure. The reference or current method is considered to reflect the true
value. The t test is based on a null hypothesis, which assumes that there is no difference between the two methods.
(Brown)
88. The t test is used to determine wheter there is a statiscally siginificant difference between the means of two groups of
data. (Rodriguez)
89. The F test is used to compare the precision of two procedures. (Brown)
90. F test is used to determine whether there is statistically significant difference between the standard deviations of two
groups. (Rodriguez)
91. Until this epidemic of overweight/obesity lessens, approximately two of every three individuals measured may be either
‘overweight (BMI 25-29.9 kg/m’) or obese (BMI 230 kg/m’) by National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
standards, On the other side of the spectrum is the individual who may be malnourished/undemourished and possibly
also underweight (BMI < 18.5 kg/m’)
92. Diurnal variation may be encountered when testing for hormones, iron, acid phosphatase, and urinary excretion of most
electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and phosphate. (Henry)
93. Incorrect application of the tourniquet and fist exercise can result in erroneous test results, Using a tourniquet to
collect blood to determine lactate concentration may result in falsely increased values. Prolonged tourniquet application
may also increase serum enzymes, proteins, and protein-bound substances, including cholesterol, calcium, and
triglycerides, due to hemoconcentration. (Henry)
94, Basal state: early morning before the patient has eaten or become physically active. This is a good time to draw blood
specimens because the body is at rest and food has not been ingested during the night. Bishop)
95. If blood pressure cuff is used as a tourniquet, itis inflated 60 mmHg. (from Dean Rodriquez Clinical Chemistry Review
Handbook, 2012)96,
Page |16
COMPARISON OF BIOLOGIC SAFETY CABINETS
CABINETS APPLICATIONS
TYPE FACE RADIONUCLEOTIDES/ BIOSAFETY PRODUCT
VeLocrTy AIRFLOW PATTERN TOXIC CHEMICALS LEVEL(S) PROTECTION
remy
Glass 1" open front_75 ‘In at front; rear and top No 23 No
through HEPA filter
ClassiTypeA 75 70% Recirculated through No 23 Yes
HEPA; exhaust through HEPA
Type BY 700 30% Recireulated through Yes 23 Yes
HEPA; exhaust via HEPA and (low levels/
hard-ducted volatility)
Type 82 700 No recirculation, total exhaust Yes 23 Yes
via HEPA and hard-ducted
Type 83 700 Same as IIA, but plenums under Yes 23 Yes
negative pressure to room
land exhaust air is ducted
Class NA Supply air inlets Yes 34
through 2 HEPA fiers
97.
98,
99,
BASIC APPROACHES TO AUTOMATION: There are three basic approaches with instruments: CONTINUOUS FLOW,
CENTRIFUGAL ANALYSIS, AND DISCRETE ANALYSIS. All three can use batch analysis (.e., large number of
specimens in one run), but only discrete analyzers offer random access, or stat, capabilities. (Bishop)
POINT-OF-CARE APPLICATIONS.
a, POC glucose is the highest-volume POC test in most health care institutions.
b. Several different manufacturers offer instrumentation designed to measure POC chemistries (most frequently
electrolytes) and/or blood gases,
c. The most common POC coagulation test is activated clotting time (ACT).
d. At the present time, only minimal hematology POCT has been available. In past years, the spun hematocrit was the
‘most common POC hematology test.
, Connectivity has been the most significant recent development in POCT. Connecti
document testing. (Bishop)
y Is the ability to electronically
‘When a fire is discovered, all employees are expected to take the actions in the acronym RACE: (Strasinger)
a. Rescue—rescue anyone in immediate danger
b. Alarm—activate the institutional fire alarm system
¢. Contain—close all doors to potentially affected areas
4d. Extinguish—attempt to extinguish the fire, if possible; exit the area
100._ FIRE EXTINGUISHER
"Type of Extinguisher
A Pressurized water/Dry chemical
B Dry chemical/Carbon dioxide
G Carbon dioxide/Halon/Dry chemical
D Metal X/Special dry chemical
101. Pressurized-water extinguishers, as well as foam and multipurpose dry-chemical types, are used for Class A fires.
102
103.
Multipurpose dry-chemical and carbon dioxide extinguishers are used for Class B and C fires. Halogenated hydrocarbon
extinguishers are particularly recommended for use with computer equipment. Class D fires present special problems,
and extinguishment is left to trained firefighters using special dry-chemical extinguishers.
Analytic chemicals exist in varying grades of purity: analytic reagent (AR); ultrapure, chemically pure (CP); United
States Pharmacopeia (USP); National Formulary (NF); and technical or commercial grade. (Bishop)
Specifications set by CAP define three grades of water:
a. Type | reagent water: for procedures that require maximum water purity: preparation of standard solutions,
ultramicrochemical analyses, measurements at nanogram or subnanogram concentrations, and tissue or cell culture
methods
b. Type Il reagent water: for most laboratory determinations in chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology and
other clinical laboratory areas
c. Type Ill reagent water: for most qualitative measurements/examinations; most procedures in urinalysis, parasitology
and histology, washing glasswaresPage |47
104. Types of Centrifuge
Horizontal or swinging bucket __| Allow the tubes to attain a horizontal position in the centrifuge when spinning and
centrifuge a vertical position when the head is not moving
‘The specimen cups in the horizontal centrifuge heads are in a vertical position when
the centrifuge is at rest. During centrifugation, the cups move to a horizontal position.
As the specimen is centrifuged, the particles being sedimented travel down through
the liquid to the bottom of the tube. When the centrifuge stops and the tubes swing to
a vertical position there may be remixing of the sediment with the supernatant liquid,
These centrifuge heads are capable of speeds up to about 3000 RPM. Higher
speeds than this will generally cauase excessive heat buildup as a result of air
friction.
Fixed-angle or angle-head Have angled compartments for the tubes and allow small particles to sediment
centrifuge more rapidly
‘Angle centrifuge heads are capable of higher speed and contain driled holes that
hold the tubes at a fixed angle (approximately 52° angle with the center shaft around
which they rotate). There is much less heat developed during centrifugation because
of very low air friction. During centrifugation, the particles travel across the column of
liquid to the side of the tube where they clump together and then rapidly move to the
bottom of the tube.
Ultracentrifuges: High-speed centrifuges used to Separate layers of different specific gravities, They are
commonly used to separate lipoproteins, The chamber is usually refrigerated to counter
heat produced through friction,
105. TEMPERATURE CONVERSIONS (Bishop)
Centigrade (°C) to Kelvin °K} *K="0+273
Gentigrade (°C) to Fahrenheit °F) oF = ("Ox 18) #32
Fehrenhet (°F to Centigrade (°C) $C =F - 32)x 0556
CLINICAL MICROSCOPY
106. PREGNANCY TEST: BIOLOGIC TESTS
TEST ‘ANIMAL USED MODE OF POSITIVE RESULT
INJECTION
1. Ascheim-Zondek | Immature ferale mice Subcutaneous | Formation of hemorthagic
follicles and corpora lutea
2. Friedman Mature virgin female rabbit Marginal ear vein | Hyperemic uterus and
corpora hemorthagica
3. Hogben | Female toad (enopus aevis) South Afican | Lymph sac | Oogenesis|
clawed frog - carries eggs throughout the
year
4 Gallc-Mainini | Male fog (Rana pipiens or Rana clamitans, | Subcutaneous | Spermalogenesis
leopard or grass frog); Male toad (Bufo bufo
or B. americanus)
5._Frank-Berman | Immature female rats Subcutaneous | Ovarian hyperemia
6._Kupperman Female rat Intraperitoneal | Ovarian hyperemia
107. The first clinically bioassay for HCG was introduced by Ascheim (1927) and Zondek (1931) and was characterized by
enlargement and luteinisation of the corpus luteam of the immature mouse after injection of urine from normally pregnant
women. Zondek noted similar results when the urine from women with choriocarcinoma or ovarian cancer or from
men with testicular neoplasms was used. These assays were followed by Friedman's test and the Xenopus laevis test,
using urine from pregnant women, with the end point being ovulation in the rabbit and South African toad, respectively.
‘Two subsequent tests reported in 1948 - the Rana pipiens frog test and the Galli-Mainini toad test - measured the release
of spermatozoa from the male frog and toad, respectively, two to four hours after injection of urine from pregnant women.
(Henry 19” Ed.)
108. Membrane cassette tests for pregnancy determination are one-step solid-phase enzyme immunoassays designed to
detect the presence of hCG in urine or serum. hCG is a hormone secreted by the trophoblast of the developing embryo; it
rapidly increases in the urine or serum during the early stages of pregnancy. In a normal pregnancy, hCG can be detected
in serum as early as 7 days following conception, and the concentration doubles every 1.3 to 2 days. It is subsequently
‘excreted into the urine. Levels of hCG reach a peak of approximately 200,000 miUimL. at the end of the first trimester.
Because the test cassette contains all necessary reagents, this is called immunochromatography. The test band
region is precoated with anti-alpha hCG antibody to trap hCG as it moves through the membrane caused by capillary
action. When the patient specimen is added, it reconstitutes an antibeta hCG antibody, which is complexed to colloidal
gold particles. This complex is trapped by the anti-alpha hCG and forms a colored complex in the test region. This may be
in the form of a straight line or a plus sign. A positive test results if a minimum concentration of approximately 25 mIU/mL
is present. The control region contains a second antibody directed against the anti-beta hCG antibody. This second
antibody reacts with the excess anti-beta hCG antibody gold particles to indicate that the test is working correctly.
(Stevens)Page [18
109. Calculated Glomerular Filtration Estimates: Formulas have been developed to provide estimates of the GFR
based on the serum creatinine without the urine creatinine. These formulas are becoming more frequently used in clinical
medicine. As discussed, the creatinine clearance is not useful in detecting early renal disease. Therefore the calculated
clearances are being used for monitoring patients already diagnosed with renal disease or at risk for renal disease. In
addition, the formulas are valuable when medications that require adequate renal clearance need to be prescribed.
The most frequently used formula was developed by COCKCROFT AND GAULT. It is also used to document
eligibility for reimbursement by the Medicare End Stage Renal Disease Program and for evaluating patient placement on
kidney transplant lists. Variables included in the original formula are age, sex, and body weight in kilograms,
eS (140 - age)Gweight in kilograms)
‘72> serum creatinine im mg/dL
‘The results are multiplied by 0.85 for female patients, Modifications to the original formula substitute ideal body weight in
kilograms and adjusted body weight in kilograms. This is done to correct for weight that may not be the result of muscle
mass, i., fatty tissue. The calculation for ideal body weight (IBW) is:
‘Males: 50 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch of height over 60 inches
Females: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg for each inch of height over 60 inches.
‘The calculation for adjusted body weight (AjBW) is:
BW + 0.3 CABW>IBW)
‘A newer formula, called the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) system, ultiizes additional variables and
does not include body weight. The variables include ethnicity, blood urea nitrogen, and serum albumin. Several variations
of the formula are available, ullizing one or more of the additional variables. An example of the MDRD study formula is:
GFR— 170 serum creatinine °999 x age 176 ><
0.822 Gif patient is female) < 1.1880 ( if patient is black) ><
BUN°?7° x serum albumin 1®315
A laboratory advantage of this formula is that, as body weight is omitted, all results are available from the laboratory
‘computer information, and the calculation can be performed automatically by the instrument performing the serum
creatinine.
110. By far the greatest source of error in any clearance procedure utilizing urine is the use of improperly timed urine
‘specimens. (Strasinger)
111. Clearance of inulin, a complex polysaccharide produced by certain plants, has been widely regarded as the gold
standard for measuring GFR. (Henry)
112. Urine drug specimen: The collector adds bluing agent (dye) to the toilet water reservoir to prevent an
adulterated specimen. The collector checks the urine for abnormal color and for the required amount (30-45 mL). The
collector checks that the temperature strip on the specimen cup reads 32.8C-37.7C. (Strasinger)
113. Containers for routine urinalysis should have a wide mouth to facilitate collections from female patients and a wide,
flat bottom to prevent overturning. They should be made of a clear material to allow for determination of color and clarity
The recommended capacity of the container is 50 mL, which allows 12 mL of specimen needed for microscopic
analysis, additional specimen for repeat analysis, and enough room for the specimen to be mixed by swirling the
container. (Strasinger)
114. In routine urinalysis, clarity is determined in the same manner that ancient physicians used: by visually examining the
mixed specimen while holding it in front of a light source. The specimen should, of course, be in a clear container.
(Strasinger)
Clear — transparent, no visible particulates
Hazy — few particulates, print easily seen through urine
Cloudy —_many particulates, print blurred through urine
Turbid — print cannot be seen through urine
Milky ~ may precipiate or clot
115, LABORATORY CORRELATIONS IN URINE TURBIDITY
Acidic urine ‘Amorphous urates, radiographic contrast media
Alkaline urine "Amorphous phosphates, carbonates
‘Soluble with heat “Amorphous urates, uric acid crystals
‘Soluble in dilute acetic acid RBCs, amorphous phosphates, carbonates
Insoluble in dilute acetic acid WECs, bacteria, yeast, spermatozoa
‘Soluble in ether Lipids, lymphatic fluid, chyle
116. _ A major disadvantage of using a urinometer to measure specific gravity is that it requires a large volume (10 to 15 mL)
of specimen. (Strasinger)
117. Calibration of the refractometer is performed using distilled water that should read 1.000. If necessary, the
instrument contains a zero set screw to adjust the distilled water reading. The calibration is further checked using 5%
NaCl, which as shown in the refractometer conversion tables should read 1,022 + 0.001, or 9% sucrose that
should read 1.034 + 0.001. (Strasinger)Page |19
118. Equipment found in the urinalysis laboratory commonly includes refrigerators, centrifuges, microscopes, and water
baths. Temperatures of refrigerators and water baths should be taken daily and recorded. Calibration of centrifuges is
customarily performed every 3 months, and the appropriate relative centrifugal force for each setting is recorded,
Centrifuges are routinely disinfected on a weekly basis. Microscopes should be kept clean at all times and have an annual
professional cleaning, (Strasinger)
119.__ TUBULAR REABSORTPTION
[ ‘SUBSTANCE LOCATION
ACTIVE TRANSPORT Glucose, amino acids, salts Proximal convoluted tubule
‘Movement ofa substance across cell Chloride ‘Ascending loop of Henle
membranes to te beecteam by Sodium Proximal and distal convoluted tubules
PASSIVE TRANSPORT Water Proximal convoluted tubule, descending
‘Movement of molecules across @ membrane loop of Henle, and collecting duct
by diftusion because of a physical gradient Urea Proximal convoluted tubule and
ascending loop of Henle
‘Sodium ‘Ascending loop of Henle
120. Many medications, including rifampin, phenolphthalein, phenindione, and phenothiazines, produce red urine.
(Strasinger)
121. _ Normal urine produces only a small amount of rapidly disappearing foam when shaken, and a large amount of white
foam indicates an increased concentration of protein. (Strasinger)
122, __ URINE pH
ACID URINE ALKALINE URINE
a ipararaton
peed Vomiting
Dehydration Renal tubular acidosis
pera
ht a cacrohette Fyetoncecfssse podcing bcteta
erseast eat rearen oan on Vegetarian ai
Cranberry juice Old specimens
Medications (methenamine mandeate[Mandetamine,fosfomycin
‘romethamine)
123.__URINE ODOR
‘Aromatic Normal
Foul, ammoniacike Bacterial decomposition, UTI
Fruity, sweet Ketones (DM, starvation, vomiting)
Maple syrup Maple syrup urine disease
Mousy Phenylketonuria
Rancid Tyrosinemia
‘Sweaty feet Isovaleric academia
Cabbage Methionine malabsorption.
Bleach Contamination
124. __ SUMMARY OF CHEMICAL TESTING BY REAGENT STRIP
Test | _ Principle | Reagent Strip Reaction
Glucose | Double sequential | Reagent strip manufacturers use several diferent chromogens, including potassium
[enzyme reaction _| iodide (green to brown) and tetramethylbenzidine (yellow to green)
Bilirubin | Diazo reaction Bilirubin combines with 2,4-dichloroaniline diazonium salt or 2,6-dichlorobenzene-
diazonium tetrafluoroborate in an acid medium to produce an azodye, with colors
| | ranging from increasing degrees of tan or pink to violet, respectively
Ketones | Sodium ‘Acetoacetic acid in an alkaline medium reacts with sodium nitroprusside fo produce a
nitroprusside purple color. The test does not measure beta-hydroxybutyric acid and is only slightly
reaction Sensitive to acetone when glycine is also present;
Specific | pKa change of ‘As the specific gravity increases, the indicator changes from blue (7,000 (alkaline),
gravity Polyelectrolyte through shades of green, to yellow (1.030 [acid)).
pH Double indicator in the pH range 5 to 9 measured by the reagent sirips, one sees colors progressing
system from orange at pH 5 through yellow and green to a final deep blue at pH 9.
Protein | Protein error of ‘At a pH level of 3, both indicators appear yellow in the absence of protein; however,
indicators as the pro tein concentration increases, the color progresses through various shades
of green and finally to blue
Blood Pseudoperoxidase | In the presence of free hemoglobin’ myoglobin, uniform color ranging from a negative
activity of hemoglobin | yellow through green to a strongly positive green-blue appears on the pad. in
contrast, intact red blood cells are lysed when they come in contact with the pad, and
the liberated hemoglobin produces an isolated reaction that results in a speckled
pattern on the pad.