Preanalitikai

Preanalitikai refers to the preanalytical phase of clinical laboratory testing—the period before laboratory analysis when many factors can affect results. In English, the term is typically rendered as preanalytical. This phase includes patient preparation, specimen collection, handling, transport, processing, and storage.

Key components are: patient identification and preparation; selection of appropriate specimen type and collection container; correct order of draw and adequate sample volume; proper labeling and recording of time and patient data; avoidance of contamination and hemolysis; timely transport to the laboratory; appropriate temperature control; prompt and correct processing such as centrifugation and aliquoting; and appropriate storage or disposal if the sample cannot be tested immediately. The integrity of the specimen must be preserved from collection to analysis.

Common preanalitikai errors include misidentification or mislabeling, use of incorrect tubes, hemolysis, lipemia, icterus, clotting, insufficient sample volume, delays in transport, improper storage, or prolonged transit times. Such errors are a leading cause of erroneous results, leading to misdiagnosis, unnecessary testing, treatment delays, increased costs, and patient harm.

Quality management in this phase is governed by standards from CLSI, ISO 15189, and national accreditation bodies. Laboratories implement standard operating procedures, training, specimen rejection criteria, barcoding, and validated transport systems to monitor performance. Ongoing data collection on preanalytical indicators—such as rejection rates and incidence of sample quality problems—drives corrective actions to improve reliability of test results.