An EQA Scheme for TPMT Activity and Thiopurine Metabolites

Participation in EQA schemes, where available, is mandatory for the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS). No EQA scheme currently exists for TPMT and thiopurine metabolites, which is a potential shortcoming of these tests. A pilot of this project has been awarded funding by Clinical Pathology Accreditation (CPA). The purpose of this work is to collect samples for an EQA scheme for whole blood TPMT (activity and genotype) and thiopurine metabolites, which will be run in collaboration with UK NEQAS (United Kingdom National External Quality Assessment Service), and facilitate a comprehensive world-wide service that enables laboratories providing these tests to fulfil quality goals and ultimately provide optimal patient care.