Organization and management of a proficiency test for homologous blood transfusion

Code: R06A03MS

In spring 2005, 5 WADA-accredited laboratories participated in a quality test for homologous blood transfusion detection organized and funded by the Lausanne laboratory. Since then, other laboratories have implemented the methodology to detect homologous blood transfusion. Another test to check educational levels of all laboratories using this methodology should be organized. As in 2005, blood samples will be preapred by the Transfusion Medicine Unit. This Unit is ISO17025 accredited, has very strong links with the Red Cross Blood Bank of the University Hospital and is directed by a physician deeply engaged in research concerning blood transfusion and internationally recognized for their scientific knowledge. This sample preparation is totally outside of any anti-doping laboratory, permitting to have a double-blind study. The Lausanne laboratory role is to send the samples to all WADA-accredited laboratories, to collect and to analyze all data furnished by the laboratories. A final report in collaboration with WADA will be written by the Lausanne laboratory.

Main Findings

As part of the WADA educational test, during the week of August 6, 2007 five (5) stabilised blood samples were distributed to the eight (8) WADA-accredited laboratories which had indicated their capability to perform homologous blood transfusion anti-doping analyses. The laboratories were asked to submit the results of this educational test. By December 7, 2007 all answers were received. All laboratories correctly applied the flow cytometry methodology to analyse the samples.