This thesis explores analytical challenges and solutions in small-volume clinical chemistry, driven by the growing use of minimally invasive sampling methods like capillary blood collection. It highlights the need for careful method optimization to ensure reliable results, especially considering factors such as hematocrit-related bias in dried blood spot (DBS) analysis. The research demonstrates that, for certain analytes, DBS and small-volume samples can provide accurate results. The work also evaluates biomarkers and methods for screening for familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) in children, including the use of free cholesterol as a potential marker and Microtainer serum tubes as a less invasive sample type. Overall, the findings offer practical strategies to improve the reliability and applicability of small-volume clinical chemistry in diagnostics and screening.
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