Ipnet EQAS
The Ipnet External Quality Assessment Scheme (Ipnet EQAS) covers analytical, postanalytical and clinical aspects for all porphyria-related biochemical analyses.
The Ipnet EQAS includes one shipment per year, consisting of two sets of biological materials for porphyria analysis and corresponding feedback reports. Distributed biological samples may vary, but at least one set consist of fresh frozen urine, faeces, plasma, whole blood and pellet of red blood cells from an actual patient. The samples are sent in February/March stored in dry ice (as far as possible) and will be delivered by express service to the participating laboratories.
The two sample sets are to be analysed within April and October, respectively. The sample sets are accompanied by clinical case histories and should be analysed in the routine procedures for all porphyrin analyses available at the laboratories.
Participants are asked to report the results of their analyses and a diagnosis based on these. The feedback report consists of a detailed report comparing the participating laboratory’s results with anonymized results from other laboratories, as well as advice on methods of measurements and diagnostic procedures.