Need For Repeat Testing Research Articles

A-189 Volume Matters: Continuous Improvement to Reduce Blood Collection Volumes and Collection Tube Utilization

Abstract Background Clinical laboratories are constantly changing with automated analyzers and total lab automation (TLA) implemented and replaced over time. Some benefits of newer technologies include decreased specimen volume requirements, less need for repeat testing, and greater throughput. Recent implementation of new analyzers and replacement of TLA in the Central Clinical Laboratory (CCL) at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, prompted the laboratory to reassess blood collection volumes for commonly ordered tests. Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate whether updating the blood collection volumes for clinical chemistry and immunoassay tests performed in the CCL could reduce the volume of blood collected from patients and the number of blood collection tubes utilized. Methods Nearly 100 different serum assays from the CCL test menu were reviewed including the basic and comprehensive metabolic, hepatic function, renal function, electrolyte, and lipid panels as well as thyroid function tests, enzymes, hormones, electrolytes, and iron status tests. Cortisol, ferritin, folate, and Vitamin B12 testing were performed on the Beckman DxI800; all other testing was on Roche Diagnostics Cobas 8000 chemistry (ISE, c701, c502) and immunoassay (e801) analyzers. Updated blood volumes for each assay were calculated utilizing manufacturer’s analytical volumes and “dead volume” requirements. Baseline data retrieved from the laboratory information system (LIS) included blood collection volumes and number of tubes collected for 128 patients with physician-orders for laboratory testing on 5/2/21. The collection logic was then updated in the test LIS environment using the new blood volumes requirements and applied to the same 128 orders. Blood volumes and number of tubes collected per order were compared before and after the volume updates. Results Baseline data from 128 unique orders showed that 414 total tubes were collected with a median(range) of 3 (2–6) tubes per order and 5 (1–18) tests per tube. The total volume of blood requested at baseline was 2065 mL. Post-intervention, 197 tubes were needed with a median(range) of 2 (1–3) tubes per order and 13 (1–30) tests per tube. The total volume of blood requested after updating volumes was 851 mL. Conclusions The practice of reviewing and updating specimen volume requirements when replacing or implementing new analyzers or TLA can greatly reduce the volume of blood collected from patients and the number of blood collection tubes per order. In this study of 128 physician orders for common laboratory tests, updating blood collection information in the LIS reduced the requested blood collection volumes by 59% and decreased the number of blood collection tubes required by 52%. This not only benefits patients because less blood is collected but also conserves blood collection tubes and reduces supply chain demands. Additionally, fewer tubes on the TLA system has the potential to improve throughput and test turnaround time.

A Novel Fluorescence-Based Leak Test Method for Rectal Anastomoses Using Aerosolized Indocyanine Green.

The intraoperative air leak test is commonly performed during rectal surgery to evaluate anastomotic integrity. However, its drawbacks include occasional difficulties in visualizing the exact point of the leak while maintaining the pelvis under saline, the need for repeat testing to identify the leak point, and a lack of continuous visualization of the leak point. To evaluate the feasibility and clinical applicability of using aerosolized indocyanine green, a fluorescent tracer, for detecting rectal anastomotic leakage. Animal preclinical study. Animal laboratory at Kagawa University. Six healthy adult female beagles were included. An anastomotic leakage model with a single air leak point was created in each dog. Indocyanine green was aerosolized using a nebulizer kit with a stream of carbon dioxide flowing at 1.5 to 2.0 L/min. The aerosol was administered into the rectum transanally, and laparoscopic observations were performed. Air leak points were observed using a near-infrared fluorescence laparoscope, after which the presence of corresponding indocyanine green fluorescence was verified. Aerosolized indocyanine green was visualized laparoscopically at all anastomosis sites but not elsewhere. The median time from the administration of the aerosol to its visualization was 4.5 seconds. Pathological examinations were performed 4 weeks postsurgery in all dogs, and no histological abnormalities related to aerosolized indocyanine green administration were observed at the anastomosis sites. The leak points were surgically created and did not occur naturally. Visualization of air leaks at the sites of rectal anastomosis was laparoscopically achievable by administering aerosolized indocyanine green transanally into the rectum in our canine model. This novel fluorescent leak test could be a valid alternative to established methods.

Can AI-led remote ECG monitoring result in service improvement for cardiac investigations

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): iRhytm Background Ambulatory ECG monitoring is needed to investigate intermittent heart rhythm symptoms. Traditional monitoring approaches are resource intensive, requiring multiple patient hospital visits and time-consuming analysis, using fixed capacity monitoring equipment. Purpose We carried out a 4000-patient pilot with an AI-led remote ECG monitoring service (Zio XT) to determine its impact on patients and the service. Single-use monitoring patches were sent directly to the patient to fit at home or fitted in outpatients. Patients wore the patch for 14 days of continuous monitoring and then returned it by Freepost for outsourced analysis and reporting. Methods We undertook a retrospective analysis of 200 consecutive patients attending for standard Holter monitoring, and compared this cohort with 200 consecutive patients who underwent monitoring with Zio. The Holter sample was taken from a time period prior to the introduction of the new remote service. Patients had been referred to cardiology for investigation of heart rhythm symptoms. Results The age ranges in the two groups were broadly comparable. In the Holter group, 100% of patients required a separate outpatient appointment to fit the monitor compared with 0% in the Zio group. Median time from monitor fitting to result was 18 days in the Zio group compared with 106 days in the Holter group (p<0.001). Test results were unavailable at follow-up in 16% of the Holter group compared with 2% of the Zio group (p<0.001). Arrhythmias were detected in more patients in the Zio group vs the Holter group (p<0.05), (SVT ≥ 30s 7.4% vs 0.5%; VT ≥ 8bts 10.5% vs 2.0%; Pause ≥ 3s 6.3% vs 2.5%; PAF 7.4% vs 2.5%). In the Holter group, 24 patients (12%) had no follow-up in cardiology outpatients. Of these, 9 were lost to follow-up and 3 deceased before completing the pathway. By comparison, 3 patients (1.6%) in the Zio group had no follow-up. In patients who had a follow-up appointment, 75% of patients in the Zio group had a non-face-to-face follow-up vs 48% in the Holter group (p<0.05). Repeat test was required in 11.5% of the Holter group compared with 4.7% of the Zio group (p<0.05). In the Holter group, 6 (3%) of the repeat tests were ILRs, compared with 2 (1.1%) in the Zio group. Conclusions Patients in the Zio group received their test results more quickly. Use of Zio XT resulted in fewer visits to hospital and a reduced need for repeat testing. Earlier detection of significant clinical arrhythmia, especially AF, facilitates rapid clinical decision making, and is expected to result in more patients receiving appropriate therapy.

HER2 Equivocal (Score = 2+) Breast Carcinoma Cases Identified by Immunohistochemistry at a South African Hospital. What is the Impact of Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization Testing?

The American Society of Clinical Oncology and the College of American Pathologists (ASCO/CAP) guidelines are used for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) reporting in breast carcinoma. Cases that demonstrate weak to moderate complete membrane immunohistochemical staining in >10% of the tumor are scored as 2+ (equivocal). This study aimed to determine what proportion of HER2 immunohistochemistry (IHC) score = 2+ breast carcinomas were confirmed to be positive by HER2 fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). There were 241 HER2 IHC score = 2+ breast carcinomas included. Most (74.3%) carcinomas were estrogen and progesterone receptor-positive. Invasive breast carcinoma of no special type (89.2%) was the commonest histologic subtype. Most tumors were grade 2 (64.3%). As per the FISH report, at the time of diagnosis, 27 cases (11.2%) were HER2 FISH positive. All HER2 FISH equivocal cases and one FISH positive case assessed using the 2013 ASCO/CAP HER2 criteria were reclassified to HER2 FISH negative when the 2018 criteria were applied. There was a high level of agreement (κ = 0.979) between HER2 FISH results obtained using the 2013 and the 2018 criteria. This study provides insight into the frequency of HER2 FISH positivity (11.2%) among HER2 IHC score = 2+ breast carcinomas and the impact of modifications to the ASCO/CAP HER2 guidelines. Elimination of the HER2 FISH equivocal category by the 2018 guidelines has reduced the need for repeat testing and simplified clinical management. Reclassification of previous HER2 FISH positive to negative has resulted in some patients being ineligible for costly anti-HER therapy.

A Retrospective Review of NCLEX Candidates’ Testing Behavior: Examining the Relationship Between Repeat Testing, Time-to-Test, and Discipline

<h3>Background</h3> Concerns about the competence of repeat NCLEX test takers have persisted, resulting in a patchwork of regulatory policies that limit the number of test attempts or the conditions under which a candidate can retest in certain U.S. jurisdictions. <h3>Purpose</h3> To examine possible corrolaries between repeat test-taker status and future practice discipline and to investigate the relationship between time-to-test and repeat testing. <h3>Methods</h3> Data were collected on nearly a quarter of a million registered nurse (RN) and practical nurse (PN) NCLEX candidates who passed the examination between 2013 and 2017. Multivariable generalized estimating equation models were used to assess the likelihood of discipline (0, 1) and the need for repeat testing (0, 1). Propensity score matching was employed to address initial group imbalance on all available covariates for models assessing discipline. <h3>Results</h3> The rate of discipline among the RN (1.0%, <i>n</i> = 2,029) and PN (1.8%, <i>n</i> = 749) samples was low. After applying propensity score matching, repeat test-taker status was found to be weakly aligned with practice discipline for RNs (<i>p</i> = .047) but was not correlated for PNs (<i>p</i> = .13). In contrast, adjusting for sex, race, ethnicity, and age, RN candidates who delayed taking the test for 60 days were 5% more likely to need to retake the NCLEX (<i>p</i> < .001). For PN candidates, a delay of 90 days was associated with a 9% increase in the likelihood of needing to retake the NCLEX (<i>p</i> < .001). <h3>Conclusion</h3> Empirical evidence supports the comparable safety profile of single– and multi–test-taker groups, underscoring the need to revaluate restrictions that limit the conditions under which candidates can retest. Furthermore, ongoing outreach to nursing programs to emphasize the importance of prompt NCLEX testing and the possible deleterious effects of delays, by even a few months, is important.

Precision Medicine in Adult Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Home Diagnostic Testing: Caution in Interpretation of Home Studies Without Clinician Input Is Necessary

PurposeTo assess the validity of home sleep apnea test directed diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in a real-life clinical setting and establish the extent to which clinical evaluation alters diagnosis and therapeutic intervention, in the context of the evolving realm of precision medicine.MethodsRetrospective consecutive cohort study of 505 patients referred to a single center between 15th September 2015 to 14th September 2016, multidisciplinary specialist sleep clinic presenting with a home sleep apnea test prior to referral. We evaluated the effect of sleep medicine practitioner (SMP) and ear, nose, and throat surgeon (ENTS) review on patient diagnoses, disease severity, and management options in OSA.ResultsHundred and fifteen patients were included. Repeat evaluation with in-lab polysomnogram (PSG) was required in 46/115 (40.0%) of patients, of which 20/46 (43.5%) had OSA severity changed. Sleep medicine practitioner review decreased the need for repeat testing with formal in-lab PSG (p < 0.05) and increased patient acceptance of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) as a long-term management option for OSA. Sleep medicine practitioner/ENTS review resulted in discovery of a non-OSA related sleep disorder or change in OSA severity in 47.8% (55/115). Ear, nose, and throat surgeon review resulted in additional or changed diagnosis in 75.7% (87/115) of patients.ConclusionIn the clinical assessment and diagnosis of OSA, patients should be reviewed by medical practitioners with an interest in sleep disorders to better navigate the complexities of assessment, as well as the identification of co-morbid conditions.

S1549 An Ominous Connection Causing Recurrent Pleural Effusions

Introduction: Fistulation is a rare complication of chronic pancreatitis. Pancreaticopleural fistula (PPF) typically presents with thoracic symptoms. Pathogenesis is related to pancreatic duct obstruction causing leakage of pancreatic fluid, and if persistent can lead to fistula formation. Due to its predominant thoracic over abdominal symptoms, the diagnosis and treatment of PPF are usually delayed. The following case is an example of the potential need for repeat testing to confirm the diagnosis of PPF as well as a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Case Description/Methods: A 66-year-old white woman presented to the emergency department with 10 days history of worsening dyspnea, orthopnea, and chest tightness. Her medical history was notable for alcohol-induced chronic pancreatitis. On physical examination, she was tachycardic with diminished breath sounds bilaterally. Chest CT angiogram revealed bilateral pleural effusions. Diagnostic right sided thoracentesis revealed exudative fluid pattern, but negative for infection and malignancy. Symptoms initially improved after therapeutic thoracentesis, but pleural effusions shortly recurred requiring repeat thoracenteses. Pleural effusions laboratory findings on thoracenteses are listed in Tables 1 and 2. MRCP showed an irregular tubular tract extending cephalad from the pancreas toward the right diaphragmatic crus and appeared to communicate with the right hydropneumothorax (Figure 1). ERCP was performed which showed diffuse dilatation of the pancreatic duct (Figure 2). Patient underwent therapeutic stenting to the ventral pancreatic duct (Figure 3). She had complete resolution of symptoms and pleural effusions on 2 months follow-up chest CT. Discussion: Pancreatic pleural fistula is a rare complication of chronic pancreatitis and can be a challenging diagnosis as symptoms tend to overlap with other causes of dyspnea, hypoxia and pleural effusions. MRCP is the most sensitive imaging modality, followed by ERCP and CT to visualize pancreatic duct anatomy and guide further therapeutic management. Conservative medical management with bowel rest and somatostatin analog are shown to be effective in patients without pancreatic ductal obstructions. In cases with recurrent pleural effusions despite conservative management, ERCP with therapeutic stenting to alleviate pancreatic ductal obstructions is strongly indicated with high success rate. Owing to its rarity and complexity, a multidisciplinary approach to PPF is warranted to provide the best care possible.Figure 1.: Tables and Figures.

The American Contact Dermatitis Society Core Allergen Series

ABSTRACT Allergic contact dermatitis has been increasing in prevalence with the growing complexity of the ingredients in commercial products. The gold standard for the diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis is patch testing. Patch testing allows for identification of relevant allergens that can then guide treatment with targeted avoidance. Although patch testing initially required clinicians to handpick suspected allergens, the development of a standard allergen panel in 1995 called the Thin-Layer Rapid Epicutaneous Test transformed the way patch testing is performed. In recent years, more comprehensive series have been developed, including the American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) Core Allergen Series, which tests for 80 allergens rather than 36 allergens. The benefits of using the ACDS Series include (a) a greater likelihood of detecting relevant allergen(s), (b) a decreased need for repeat testing and subsequently fewer clinic appointments and less patient travel, and (c) an ability to update and modify the series of allergens based on consumer trends and patient data. Important/relevant allergens found in the ACDS Series but not the Thin-Layer Rapid Epicutaneous Test include many preservatives, adhesives, fragrances, and propylene glycol. We propose that patch testing with extended series of allergens be considered for first-line use when evaluating patients with suspected allergic contact dermatitis.

A Point-of-Care Algorithm to Guide Proper Device Selection for Ambulatory Electrocardiography.

In the outpatient setting, ambulatory electrocardiography is the most frequently used diagnostic modality for the evaluation of patients in whom cardiac arrhythmias or conduction abnormalities are suspected. Proper selection of the device type and monitoring duration is critical for optimizing diagnostic yield and cost-effective resource utilization. However, despite guidance from major professional societies, the lack of systematic guidance for proper test selection in many institutions results in the need for repeat testing, which leads to not only increased resource utilization and cost of care, but also suboptimal patient care. To address this unmet need at our own institution, we formed a multidisciplinary panel to develop a concise, yet comprehensive algorithm, incorporating the most common indications for ambulatory electrocardiography, to efficiently guide clinicians to the most appropriate test option for a given clinical scenario, with the goal of maximizing diagnostic yield and optimizing resource utilization. The algorithm was designed as a single-page, color-coded flowchart to be utilized both as a rapid reference guide in printed form, and a decision support tool embedded within the electronic medical records system at the point of order entry. We believe that systematic adoption of this algorithm will optimize diagnostic efficiency, resource utilization, and importantly, patient care and satisfaction.

SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging in liver transplantation candidates

BackgroundThe optimal cardiovascular evaluation prior to liver transplantation remains controversial and includes stress echocardiography, stress MPI, cardiac CTA, and coronary angiography. This study summarizes our experience of the past decade using SPECT MPI in patients with end-stage liver disease, including patient characteristics, stress testing protocols, test results, the need for repeat testing, and downstream testing. MethodsAll patients who underwent a clinically indicated stress SPECT MPI study as part of their pre-liver transplant evaluation from 2004 to 2014 were reviewed from the Nuclear Cardiology database. Results of perfusion imaging, repeat testing, subsequent angiography, and need for revascularization were reviewed. ResultsA total of 2500 patients were referred for SPECT MPI, of those 111 had known CAD and 271 underwent more than one MPI study. Compared to other patients undergoing stress MPI, pre-liver transplant patients were younger, had fewer cardiac risk factors and lower prevalence of prior cardiac history, and used pharmacologic stress more often. During the study decade, patient age increased, prevalence of hypertension increased and smoking decreased, prevalence of known CAD increased, and the number of abnormal studies decreased. Abnormal perfusion results were present in 7.8% of pre-liver transplant patients compared to 34.3% of all other patients. In a multivariate model, age and lower ejection fraction were associated with an abnormal MPI result. Of the 64 patients who underwent subsequent invasive or non-invasive coronary angiography after an abnormal MPI, obstructive CAD was diagnosed in 25 patients (1.0%), non-obstructive CAD was diagnosed in 23 patients (0.9%), and normal coronaries found in 16 patients (0.6%); a total of 18 (0.7%) of these underwent coronary revascularization. The average time to repeat testing was 27.2 ± 17.9 months. In a multivariate model, younger age and exercise stress were associated with repeat testing. In only 17 patients out of 271 with a normal initial perfusion, the repeat study became abnormal. The use of stress-first imaging was successful in 80% of patients with a reduction in Tc-99m dose from 39.1 to 18.3 mCi. ConclusionAbnormal SPECT MPI results in candidates for liver transplantation are infrequent compared to non-liver transplant patients and the incidence of obstructive CAD on subsequent angiography even less. Repeat testing in those on the transplant waiting list after initial normal test results appears to be of limited value. Stress-first protocols may be considered for the majority of these patients to reduce testing time and radiation exposure.

1062 Improvement in Reliability of Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse Elastography Studies Using Feedback and Benchmarking: A Single Center Experience

INTRODUCTION: Periodic feedback and use of standardized benchmarks has historically been used to improve quality of various diagnostic studies including screening colonoscopy. Acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography is utilized as an important non invasive test to quantify the degree of liver fibrosis. Since this is dependent on obtaining accurate and reliable readings from radiology technicians, we aimed to improve the reliability of clinically significant studies which are defined as at least ten readings with an interquartile range of &lt;0.3. METHODS: We initially did a retrospective analysis of all ARFI elastography studies performed at our center over the course of January and February 2018 in order to assess baseline performance. We subsequently shared individual data with each radiology technician in March 2018. We also recommended that technicians who performed with &lt; 50% reliability should shadow their colleagues who were able to get reliable readings beyond 75%. We then longitudinally followed the quality of studies over the ensuing few months. We repeated the same intervention in July 2018 to see if there was any attrition in response. Follow up was then done up until December 2018 to assess performance of studies. RESULTS: 186 ARFI studies were completed over the course of 12 months. 12 radiology technicians were involved in performed these studies (range 5-25 exams). Average BMI of patients undergoing the exam was 29.2 (range 16.3 to 45.2). No difference was seen in terms of reliability in obese patients. The proportion of reliable studies (10 or more readings with IQR &lt; 0.3) was 44% in January. After the first session of feedback, this proportion increased to 78% in April. However, it decreased to 43% in July at which point a second formal session of feedback was done. A subsequent increase was noticed with reliable studies going up to 70% in August. However, this improvement did not remain sustained with decline in performance to 43% in December. CONCLUSION: Based on this study spanning a total of 12 months, we demonstrate that providing feedback to individual technicians and tutorials by high performing technicians leads to improvement in overall performance. Albeit, this effect is not sustained if provided intermittently. This calls for regular feedback and follow up over longer duration to assess for more sustained improvement. This would in turn translate into a diminished need for repeat testing which would curtail cost and patient time as well as need for liver biopsy.

Determining the Need for Repeat Testing of Blood Ethanol Concentration: Evaluation of the Synchron Blood Ethyl Alcohol Assay Kit.

SummaryBackgroundIn clinical laboratories, a common practice used to verify tests prior to reporting is repeat testing. Our objective was to evaluate the differences between the results of blood ethanol concentration (BEC) test repetitions and report on the role of repeat testing to prevent reporting of incorrect results.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study of data retrieved from the Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Training and Research Hospital’s document management system by calculating the percentage change between repeated BEC test runs. To assess for clinical relevance, the bias between two results from the same sample was compared using the 1988 Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments’ (CLIA) proficiency testing allowable total error (TEa) limits.ResultsFrom a total of 1,627 BEC tests performed between January 2017 and January 2018, 70% (1,133) were repeat tested. Of these, 830 resulted in BECs between 0–5 mmol/L, of which 237 (28.5%) were above the 25% acceptable TEa. Two hundred seventy-six BEC test results were greater than >14 mmol/L, and there was a good consensus between the initial and repeat test results (99%). In this group, the mean bias was 0.0% (95%, CI = -9.8–9.8%). However, three of the repeat test results were considered significantly different. There were two discordant results in the 5–14 mmol/L ethanol level, and the mean bias was 2.1% (95%, CI = -15.0–19.1%).ConclusionThe majority of the repeated BEC test values were the same as the baseline value; therefore, there may be limited benefit in continuing such frequent repeated analyses.

Management of HPV‐positive women in cervical screening using results from two consecutive screening rounds

We studied whether triage of human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive women participating in an HPV-based screening programme can be improved by including the HPV result at the previous screen in the triage algorithm. We analyzed data of a subgroup of 366 women from the POBASCAM trial, screened by cytology and HPV cotesting. Women were included if they tested HPV-positive in the second HPV-based screening round. We evaluated the clinical performance of 16 strategies, consisting of cytology, HPV genotyping, and/or previous screen HPV result. The clinical endpoint was cervical precancer or cancer (CIN3+). The current Dutch triage testing policy for HPV-positive women is to refer women for colposcopy if they have abnormal cytology at baseline or after 6-18 months. In the second HPV-based screening round, this strategy yielded a negative predictive value (NPV) of 95.8% (95% confidence interval: 91.9-98.2) and colposcopy referral rate of 37.6% (32.3-43.2%). Replacing repeat cytology by the previous screen HPV result yielded a similar NPV (96.9%, 93.3-98.9) and colposcopy referral rate (38.8%, 33.4-44.4). A higher NPV (99.2%, 96.3-100%) at the cost of a higher colposcopy referral rate (49.2%, 43.6-54.8) was achieved when cytology was combined with HPV16/18 genotyping. The other 13 triage strategies yielded a lower NPV, a higher colposcopy referral rate or performed similarly but required additional testing. HPV-positive women in the second HPV-based screening round can be suitably managed by cytology, HPV16/18 genotyping and the HPV result at the previous screen, obviating the need for repeat testing of HPV-positive, cytology negative women.

Challenges and limitations in the diagnosis of atrioesophageal fistula.

Atrioesophageal fistula (AEF) is a dire complication of atrial fibrillation ablation. The diagnostic yield of computed tomography (CT) chest, the role and timing of repeat testing, and the value of other investigations in the diagnosis of AEF is uncertain. We systematically reviewed published AEF cases to evaluate radiological, bedside, and biochemical investigations for AEF (registered on PROSPERO [CRD42017077493]). Eighty-seven articles with 126 patients (median age, 59 years; male, 71%) were included in the analysis. CT chest was performed in 88% (111/126) and was abnormal in 87%. A clear diagnosis of AEF (fistula/perforation) was only detected in 35% (34/97). Other major findings included free air in mediastinum (26%), left atrium (LA), or LA wall (24%). In 11 patients with normal/nonspecific initial CT chest, major abnormalities were detected in 91% (10/11) of repeat CT chest performed 6 days (median; range, 4-22) after initial scan. Initial CT head was normal in 51%; diffuse air emboli was identified in 79% (22/28). Initial transthoracic echocardiography was normal in 61% of cases. The spectrum of radiological abnormalities included Air (mediastinum/LA), Effusion (pleural/pericardial), Fistula/Perforation, and Thickening (esophagus/LA) - "AEF-Tests." Esophagram demonstrated contrast extravasation in 87% (13/15). Blood culture was consistently positive (100%; 28/28), particularly for streptococcus species (93%; 26/28). The diagnosis of AEF remains challenging. Clinicians should be aware of the limitations in the yield of CT chest, the variety of major abnormalities reported, the need for repeat testing, unique brain imaging findings, and the importance of positive blood cultures and raised inflammatory markers.

Impact of an in-house emergency radiologist on report turnaround time.

One of the many challenges facing emergency departments (EDs) across North America is timely access to emergency radiology services. Academic institutions, which are typically also regional referral centres, frequently require cross-sectional studies to be performed 24 hours a day with expedited final reports to accelerate patient care and ED flow. The purpose of this study was to determine if the presence of an in-house radiologist, in addition to a radiology resident dedicated to the ED, had a significant impact on report turnaround time. Preliminary and final report turnaround times, provided by the radiology resident and staff, respectively, for patients undergoing computed tomography or ultrasonography of their abdomen/pelvis in 2008 (before the implementation of emergency radiology in-house staff service) were compared to those performed during the same time frame in 2009 and 2010 (after staffing protocols were changed). A total of 1,624 reports were reviewed. Overall, there was no statistically significant decrease in the preliminary report turnaround times between 2008 and 2009 (p = 0.1102), 2009 and 2010 (p = 0.6232), or 2008 and 2010 (p = 0.0890), although times consistently decreased from a median of 2.40 hours to 2.08 hours to 2.05 hours (2008 to 2009 to 2010). There was a statistically significant decrease in final report turnaround times between 2008 and 2009 (p < 0.0001), 2009 and 2010 (p < 0.0011), and 2008 and 2010 (p < 0.0001). Median final report times decreased from 5.00 hours to 3.08 hours to 2.75 hours in 2008, 2009, and 2010, respectively. There was also a significant decrease in the time interval between preliminary and final reports between 2008 and 2009 (p < 0.0001) and 2008 and 2010 (p < 0.0001) but no significant change between 2009 and 2010 (p = 0.4144). Our results indicate that the presence of a dedicated ED radiologist significantly reduces final report turnaround time and thus may positively impact the time to ED patient disposition. Patient care is improved when attending radiologists are immediately available to read complex films, both in terms of health care outcomes and regarding the need for repeat testing. Providing emergency physicians with accurate imaging findings as rapidly as possible facilitates effective and timely management and thus optimizes patient care.

Clinical characteristics of patients who test positive for Clostridium difficile by repeat PCR.

The high sensitivity of PCR assays for diagnosing Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) has greatly reduced the need for repeat testing after a negative result. Nevertheless, a small subset of patients do test positive within 7 days of a negative test. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical characteristics of these patients to determine when repeat testing may be appropriate. The results of all Xpert C. difficile PCR (Cepheid, Sunnyvale CA) tests performed in the clinical microbiology laboratory at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center (NYPH/CUMC) from 1 May 2011 through 6 September 2013, were reviewed. A retrospective case-control study was performed, comparing patients who tested positive within 7 days of a negative test result to a random selection of 50 controls who tested negative within 7 days of a negative test result. During the study period, a total of 14,875 tests were performed, of which 1,066 were repeat tests (7.2%). Eleven of these repeat tests results were positive (1.0%). The only risk factor independently associated with repeat testing positive was history of a prior CDI (odds ratio [OR], 19.6 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 4.0 to 19.5], P < 0.001). We found that patients who test positive for C. difficile by PCR within 7 days of a negative test are more likely to have a history of CDI than are patients who test negative with repeat PCR. This finding may be due to the high rate of disease relapse or the increased likelihood of empirical therapy leading to false-negative results in these patients.

Do Hemolyzed Potassium Specimens Need to be Repeated?

BackgroundIn the emergency department (ED), hyperkalemia in the presence of hemolysis is common. Elevated hemolyzed potassium levels are often repeated by emergency physicians to confirm pseudohyperkalemia and to exclude a life-threatening true hyperkalemia. ObjectivesWe hypothesize that in patients with a normal renal function, elevated hemolyzed potassium, and normal electrocardiogram (ECG), there may not be a need for further treatment or repeat testing and increased length of stay. MethodsData were prospectively enrolled patients presenting to the ED from July 2011 to February 2012. All adult subjects who had a hemolyzed potassium level ≥ 5.5 mEq/dL underwent a repeat potassium level and ECG. The incidence of true hyperkalemia in this population was measured. ResultsA total of 45 patients were enrolled. The overall median age was 52 years (range 25–83 years); 22 were female (49%). In patients with hyperkalemia on initial blood draw and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) ≥ 60 (n = 45), the negative predictive value was 97.8% (95% confidence interval [CI] 88.2–99.9%). When patients had hyperkalemia on initial blood draw, GFR ≥ 60, and a normal ECG (n = 42), the negative predictive value was 100% (95% CI 93.1–100%). ConclusionsIn the setting of hemolysis, GFR ≥ 60 mL/min in conjunction with a normal ECG is a reliable predictor of pseudohyperkalemia and may eliminate the need for repeat testing. In patients with a normal GFR who are otherwise deemed safe for discharge, our results indicate there is no need for repeat testing.

Psychological morbidity associated with ovarian cancer screening: results from more than 23,000 women in the randomised trial of ovarian cancer screening (UKCTOCS).

To examine the psychological sequelae associated with abnormal screening in the United Kingdom Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening (UKCTOCS). Prospective, longitudinal randomised control trial. Sixteen UKCTOCS centres. Women aged 50-70 years randomised to annual multimodal screening, ultrasound screening or control groups. Two groups were followed for 7 years: (1) a random sample (n = 1339), taken from all three study groups; and (2) an events sample (n = 22,035) of women with abnormal screens resulting in the need for repeat testing of either low or higher level intensity. Patient-reported measures of anxiety (scores ranging from 20 to 80) and psychological morbidity. In the random sample the mean difference between anxiety scores after a repeat screening and those following an annual screening was 0.4 (95% CI -0.46, 1.27), and in the events sample it was 0.37 (95% CI 0.23, 0.51). The risk of psychological morbidity was only increased in the event sample for women requiring higher level repeat screening (OR 1.28; 95% CI 1.18, 1.39). The risk of psychological morbidity in women with ovarian cancer was higher at both 6 weeks (OR 16.2; 95% CI 9.19, 28.54) and 6 months (OR 3.32; 95% CI 1.91, 5.77) following surgery. Screening does not appear to raise anxiety but psychological morbidity is elevated by more intense repeat testing following abnormal annual screens, and in women after surgical treatment for ovarian cancer.

Missed opportunities for HIV screening in pharmacies and retail clinics.

In the wake of new recommendations to offer HIV screening to everyone aged 13-64 years and to start all people living with HIV/AIDS on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) regardless of CD4 count, the need to generate widespread, scalable HIV screening programs is greater than ever. Nearly 50,000 new HIV infections occur in the United States each year, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately half of these new infections are transmitted by individuals who are unaware of their HIV serostatus. Numerous barriers to screening exist, including the lack of primary care for many at-risk patients, expense of screening in traditional settings, and need for repeat testing in high-risk populations. With their relative accessibility and affordability, community pharmacies and retail clinics within those pharmacies are practical and appealing venues for expanded HIV screening. For widespread pharmacy-based testing to become a reality, policymakers and corporate pharmacy leadership would need to develop innovative solutions to the existing time pressures of pharmacists' behind-the-counter functions and absence of reimbursement for direct patient care services. Pharmacists nationwide should also receive training to assist with risk reduction counseling and linkage to care for customers purchasing the new over-the-counter HIV test.

Irreproducible positive results on the Cobas AmpliPrep/Cobas TaqMan HIV‐1 Qual test are different qualitatively from confirmed positive results

Criteria that define low positive results on the COBAS® AmpliPrep/COBAS® TaqMan (CAP/CTM) HIV-1 Qual test as inconclusive have been adopted by all academic centres in South Africa that conduct infant HIV PCR, following previous investigations that showed poor specificity of these results. Retesting all inconclusive specimens has considerable cost implications. Therefore, it was attempted to characterise such inconclusive results, by comparing those that prove to be either negative or positive on follow-up testing. This retrospective, laboratory-based study found that 193 of 211 (91.5%) patients with previous inconclusive results (defined as reported positive by CAP/CTM but with cycle threshold [Ct ] values of >32 and/or fluorescence intensity [FI] values of <5) tested negative and only 18 (8.5%) tested positive using independently obtained follow-up samples after a median of 28 days. The only significant independent predictor of a later positive result was a higher FI value (3.326 vs. 0.495, P < 0.0001), whereas Ct values were not predictive independently. Specimens from patients negative on follow-up testing differed qualitatively from specimens that proved to be true positives. As the lower FI values in false-positive compared to true-positive results probably are indicative of a non-specific signal, the incorporation of stringent amplification slope criteria in the assay's test definition file may improve correct classification and thus reduce the need for repeat testing of a large number of inconclusive specimens.