Overview
The total laboratory testing process is commonly divided into pre-analytical (before analysis), analytical (performing the test), and post-analytical (review, reporting, and communication) phases.
Classification
| Phase | Core question |
|---|---|
| Pre-analytical | Is this the right, suitable specimen for this patient? |
| Analytical | Was the method performed acceptably today? |
| Post-analytical | Was the result reviewed, reported, and communicated correctly? |
Morphologic Features
Not applicable, this entry maps process phases, not morphology.
Laboratory Characteristics
- Errors can occur in any phase
- Pre-analytical problems are a common teaching emphasis
- Analytical QC does not erase earlier specimen failures
Reference Intervals
Not applicable, phase mapping is a process framework, not a reference interval.
Clinical and Laboratory Significance
Correct phase mapping prevents false clinical conclusions. A specimen problem reported as disease can trigger wrong treatment.
Differential Considerations
Not a disease differential. For unexpected results, differentiate pre-analytical artifact, analytical failure, and post-analytical reporting error before assuming pathology.
Comparison Tables
Phase troubleshooting map
| Example problem | Likely phase | First MLS move |
|---|---|---|
| Hemolyzed sample accepted | Pre-analytical | Reject/flag per SOP; do not treat as pure disease |
| Controls out; patients run anyway | Analytical | Hold results; follow QC failure SOP |
| Critical value not called | Post-analytical | Notify per policy; document |
Classification Frameworks
Not applicable . WHO disease classifications do not define the three testing phases.
Laboratory Notes
- Pre → Analytical → Post
- Many errors often start pre-analytically, still check all phases
- Locate phase before blaming the instrument
References
Authoritative textbooks, guidelines, and reviews supporting this reference entry. Verify reference intervals, critical limits, and reflex criteria against institutional protocols and current guideline editions.
Textbooks
- McPherson RA, Pincus MR. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 24th ed. Elsevier; 2021. (Laboratory quality and management chapters, verify current edition.)
CLSI and Professional Guidelines
- Institutional laboratory SOPs, locally adopted quality policies, and manufacturer instructions for use (IFU). Always verify current local practice.
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