Logistics of national radioimmunoassay services and radioimmunoassay trouble shooting in developing countries

The logistics of national radioimmunoassay services are analysed in regard to: applications of immunoassays in developing countries; provision of matched reagents; collection, storage and transport of patient samples, particularly from rural areas; development of robust new immunoassay systems, especially those using non-isotopic labels; quality control; and interrelation with international agencies and commercial suppliers. The effect of using different methods and temperatures of sample storage on representative glycoprotein, steroid, thyroid and communicable disease analytes is examined. The need for stratification of assay services (district, state and national/regional levels) for various tests is discussed in relation to their clinical urgency. A trouble shooting guide suited to developing countries has been written. Starting from various symptoms of assay failure, it describes the differential diagnosis of likely causes, lists appropriate tests to confirm the diagnosis and finally suggests remedial action to prevent future similar mishaps or to salvage the assay. (author)