ABSTRACT
UNLABELLED: The establishment of reference values comparative ranges for each laboratory test result does not meet expectations. THE AIM OF THE STUDY was to make a comparative analysis of the reference values (RV) used in medical diagnostic laboratories (MLD) in Poland for concentrations in serum or plasma biochemical parameters (potassium, calcium, creatinine, and glucose) in adults. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The data source was the information sent to the Centre for Quality Assessment in Laboratory Medicine by MLD participating in programs interlaboratory surveys. RESULTS: Studies have shown that there is a great diversity of reference values for the analyzed biochemical parameters used in MLD. The study also demonstrated the use by MLD various units of measurement systems (SI and weight-volume). CONCLUSION: A large variation of the reference values in the parameters significantly hinders the interpretation of laboratory results by physician.
