Dried blood spot

A method of collecting and analyzing blood samples

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Dried blood spot (DBS) is a form of biosampling where blood samples are blotted and dried on filter paper. This method is used for various diagnostic and monitoring purposes, including newborn screening, therapeutic drug monitoring, and epidemiological studies.

History

The use of dried blood spots dates back to the early 20th century, but it gained significant attention in the 1960s when Dr. Robert Guthrie developed a method for newborn screening for phenylketonuria (PKU) using DBS. This innovation revolutionized neonatal screening and paved the way for the detection of other metabolic disorders.

Collection and Storage

Blood is typically collected via a finger prick or heel stick, and a few drops are placed onto a specially designed filter paper. The blood is allowed to dry, creating a stable sample that can be stored and transported at room temperature. This method is particularly advantageous in resource-limited settings where refrigeration may not be available.

Applications

Newborn Screening

DBS is widely used in newborn screening programs to detect congenital disorders such as phenylketonuria, congenital hypothyroidism, and cystic fibrosis. Early detection through DBS allows for timely intervention and management of these conditions.

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring

DBS is employed in the monitoring of drug levels in patients, particularly in the management of chronic conditions such as HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis. It allows for the collection of samples in non-clinical settings, facilitating patient compliance and reducing healthcare costs.

Epidemiological Studies

In epidemiology, DBS is used to collect samples for large-scale studies, including seroprevalence surveys and infectious disease monitoring. The ease of collection and transport makes it ideal for field studies.

Advantages

• Minimal invasiveness: Requires only a small volume of blood.
• Ease of transport and storage: Does not require refrigeration.
• Cost-effective: Reduces the need for phlebotomy and associated equipment.

Limitations

• Limited sample volume: May not be suitable for tests requiring larger volumes of blood.
• Potential for contamination: Proper handling is essential to avoid contamination.
• Variability in sample quality: Factors such as hematocrit levels can affect the quality of the sample.

Also see

• Blood test
• Newborn screening
• Phenylketonuria
• Therapeutic drug monitoring