Blood cholesterol testing methods
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Overview of Blood Cholesterol Testing Methods
Blood cholesterol testing is essential for diagnosing and monitoring cardiovascular health. Over the years, various methods have been developed, ranging from traditional laboratory techniques to modern point-of-care testing (POCT) devices. These methods differ in their principles, accuracy, speed, and ease of use.
Traditional Laboratory-Based Cholesterol Testing
Chemical Extraction and Colorimetric Methods
Early cholesterol testing methods relied on chemical extraction and colorimetric reactions. One widely used approach involves saponification and extraction, followed by a color reaction, which has been shown to be accurate and reproducible for clinical use . Another method uses petroleum ether extraction and digitonin precipitation to separate total and ester cholesterol, followed by color development with FeCl3-H2SO4, providing rapid and reliable results .
Enzymatic Assays
Enzymatic methods have become the gold standard for cholesterol measurement in clinical laboratories. These assays use enzymes such as cholesterol esterase and cholesterol oxidase to convert cholesterol into measurable products, often detected by a color change. The process is highly specific, reproducible, and can be automated for high-throughput analysis 68. These methods are linear over a wide range of cholesterol concentrations and require minimal sample preparation .
Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) for Cholesterol
Enzymatic Strip-Based Devices
POCT devices using enzymatic strips have gained popularity due to their convenience and speed. These strips typically use colorimetric or electrochemical detection methods, allowing for rapid, on-site cholesterol measurement without the need for specialized laboratory equipment. The colorimetric method, in particular, is favored for its potential for mass production and ease of use, making it suitable for home and clinical settings . These devices are designed to be user-friendly and provide results comparable to laboratory-based methods 59.
Advanced POCT Technologies
Recent innovations include microfluidic chips and paper-based analytical devices. For example, electrophoresis titration chips integrate enzymatic reactions with visual detection, offering high selectivity, portability, and sensitivity for cholesterol quantification in blood serum . Similarly, molecularly imprinted gel colorimetric devices and laminated 3D paper-based devices enable simple, low-cost, and disposable cholesterol testing from whole blood, suitable for home self-inspection and rapid screening 710.
Sample Collection Considerations
The accuracy of POCT cholesterol testing can be influenced by sample collection techniques. Studies have shown that cholesterol levels measured from the first drop of capillary blood may be lower than those from the second drop, likely due to contamination with tissue fluid or residual alcohol. Therefore, using the second drop is recommended for more accurate results .
Conclusion
Blood cholesterol testing methods have evolved from complex laboratory procedures to simple, rapid, and user-friendly POCT devices. Traditional chemical and enzymatic assays remain the standard in clinical laboratories due to their accuracy and reliability 2368. However, POCT devices, especially those using enzymatic strips and advanced microfluidic or paper-based technologies, are making cholesterol testing more accessible for both clinical and home use 157910. Proper sample collection is crucial for accurate POCT results . Overall, these advancements are improving the speed, convenience, and reach of cholesterol monitoring.
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