Dried Blood Spots in Neonatal Studies: A Computational Analysis for the Role of the Hematocrit Effect

Dried blood spot (DBS) microsampling is extensively employed in newborn screening (NBS) and neonatal studies. However, the impact of variable hematocrit (Ht) values on results can be a source analytical error, use fixed Ht for calibration (Htcal) not representative all subpopulations. A computational approach based demographics was developed implemented R® language to propose strategy using correction factors address effect DBS partial-spot assays. rational “tolerance level” proposed contribution total error safe range samples, where concentrations omitted. Furthermore, an “alert zone” false positive or negative result NBS proposed, has considered. Results point toward Htcal closely populations under analysis acceptable level percentage relative attributed effect, diminishing probability correction. Overall, studies important future work may further investigate this parameter, correlated other clinical variables potentially affecting results.