Evaluation of analytical characteristics of the Vcheck C10 point-of-care chemistry analyser for feline sera.

Abstract

ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to characterise the analytical performance of the Vcheck C10 dry chemistry analyser and evaluate its comparability with a reference wet chemistry system (AU480) in feline serum samples.MethodsAnalytical precision was determined by within-run and between-run testing using pooled serum and commercial quality control materials. Agreement between analysers for 16 biochemical analytes was examined using Passing-Bablok regression and Bland-Altman analysis using 57 feline serum samples. Total observed error (TE_obs) was assessed against published allowable total error (TE_a) criteria to evaluate analytical quality.ResultsAcceptable precision was observed for the majority of analytes, although total bilirubin (TBIL) exhibited increased variability at lower concentration ranges. Regression analysis demonstrated strong linear associations for most analytes (r = 0.82-0.99). Bland-Altman analysis indicated that 94.4-98.0% of paired results were within the limits of agreement. Comparison of TE_obs with TE_a limits identified acceptable analytical performance for 10 analytes, whereas blood urea nitrogen, calcium, creatinine, TBIL and total protein exceeded allowable limits.Conclusions and relevanceThe Vcheck C10 demonstrated reliable analytical precision and favourable correlation with the reference analyser for most analytes in feline serum, supporting its utility in point-of-care testing in primary practice. Nevertheless, analyte-specific limitations in agreement with the wet chemistry reference method were identified for certain analytes, emphasising method-consistent interpretation and the use of analyser-specific reference intervals in clinical decision-making and longitudinal monitoring.