Analytical evaluation of the Bio-Rad Variant II automated HbA(1c) analyzer

Objectives: To evaluate the analytical performance of the Bio-Rad Variant I I HbA(IC) analyzer (a completely automated system for the quantification of glycohemoglobin [HbA(IC)] in blood). Design and Methods: The analytical parameters of precision, linearity and a nalytical range were assessed and HbA(IC) results from the Variant II were compared to HbA(IC) results from the Bio-Rad Variant (a method certified by the National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program). The effect of a var iety of hemoglobin variants on HbA(IC) obtained on the system was investiga ted. Results: Total imprecision was less than 5% and the results compared well w ith those from an established method. The method has a wide analytical rang e with no carryover between specimens. Conclusion: The HbA(IC) method on the Variant II gives acceptable analytica l performance. (C) 2001 The Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists. All righ ts reserved.