Clinical biochemistry
-
Clinical biochemistry · Apr 2000
ReviewPresent issues in the determination of troponins and other markers of cardiac damage.
To review some of the recently proposed improvements and the corresponding apparent issues in the field of biochemical markers of cardiac damage. ⋯ The continuous development of new analytical tools for the biochemical evaluation of patients with suspected myocardial injury brings without doubt new challenges of careful technological evaluation, implementation, and standardization but it may also provide a unique opportunity to markedly enhance our diagnostic performance in the clinical setting of acute coronary syndrome.
-
Clinical biochemistry · Apr 1998
ReviewOn-line arterial blood gas analysis with optodes: current status.
To summarize the rationale for and the principles of blood gas and pH measurement with photochemical sensors (optodes) placed in the arterial line--either intravascularly (in vivo) or extravascularly (ex vivo). To review the specific problems that occur with in vivo measurement; the clinical data that have been obtained with continuous intravascular and on-demand extravascular systems; and, the role of this technology in the intensive care unit. ⋯ Before intravascular monitors can be used routinely for clinical care, reliability, consistency and accuracy will have to be demonstrated in large and widely divergent patient groups. Extravascular on-demand blood gas analysis is accurate, allows trend monitoring of blood gases and decreases the risk of infection, the therapeutic decision time and patient blood loss. As large patient studies are lacking the clinical role of on-line blood gas analysis cannot be clearly delineated.
-
To update some essential trace metals required in total parenteral nutrition. ⋯ Essential trace metals, chromium, copper, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, and zinc are added to parenteral fluids to prevent the development of deficiency syndromes. When possible, these metals should be monitored, even in patients on short-term total parenteral nutrition (TPN) to avoid deficiency or toxicity. Many of the nutrients or additives used in parenteral solutions may be contaminated with metals, such as aluminum or chromium. Such trace-metal monitoring becomes more critical in infants, and those on long-term TPN.