Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
The measurement of anti-TNF alpha biologicals is a useful tool in managing patients who fail to respond (primary failure) or who go on to lose response (secondary failure) to treatment. Monitoring drug levels allows for a personalised approach to drug optimisation by appropriate dose escalation/de-escalation or drug switching/withdrawal.
Specimen container paediatric:
Serum
Specimen container adult:Serum
Minimum volume paediatric:
Minimum 300 μL serum or plasma required for both drug and anti-drug antibody analysis
Minimum volume adult:
Minimum 300 μL serum or plasma required for both drug and anti-drug antibody analysis
Special requirements:
Ideally take sample just before drug administration (trough level)
Sample stability:Keep in fridge until transport. If transport is going to be delayed by 5 days, freeze at -20 degC.
Transport requirements:
First class post at ambient temperature
Quality assurance:
CTCB Biotherapy
Other info:
Analysis will include BOTH drug and anti-drug antibody analysis.