This fourth, updated edition contains the latest developments in preanalytical knowledge. An international team of authors summarizes the information on biological influences, analytical interferences and on the variables affecting the collection, transport and storage, as well as preparation of samples. In so doing, they cover age, gender, race, pregnancy, diet, exercise and altitude, plus the effects of stimulants and drugs. National and international standards are described for sampling procedures, transport, sample identification and all safety aspects, while quality assurance procedures are shown for total laboratory management.
In addition, this practical book is rounded off by a glossary explaining all terms being used.
This book is a must-have for everyone involved in patient care and using or performing laboratory tests.

Prof. Dr. Walter G. Guder was Professor of Clinical Chemistry at the Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich and Director of the Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Bogenhausen Community Hospital Munich until January 2003. He studied medicine at Cologne, Tübingen and Munich. Walter G. Guder served as President of the German Society of Clinical Chemistry and as Chairman of the Working Group on Preanalytical Quality.
Prof. Dr. Dr. Hermann Wisser was Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Stuttgart until 2002. He also served as Director of the Institute of Clinical Chemistry of the faculty of Clinical Medicine Mannheim of the University of Heidelberg. Hermann Wisser was President of the German Society of Clinical Chemistry and is honorary member in various societies of clinical chemistry.
Prof. Dr. Sheshadri Narayanan is Clinical Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the Weill Medical College of Conell University, New York City. He is a diplomat of the American Board of Clinical Chemistry and is licensed to act as Clinical Laboratory Director in all areas (chemistry, hematology, coagulation, microbiology etc.) in the States of New York and New Jersey.
Dr. Bernd Zawta was Head of the Department of Scientific Customer Support and Public Relations of Roche Diagnostics GmbH. He studied chemistry at the Technical University Dresden where his doctoral thesis was on 'The Chromatography of Steroid Hormones'. Bernd Zawta also served as WHO consultant in Mongolia in 1985. Dr. Zawta deceased during the preparation of this new edition.