Microbix Client Labquality Introduces Novel EQA Scheme at ESCV

Core Insights - Microbix Biosystems Inc. and Labquality Oy have launched a new external quality assessment (EQA) program aimed at improving the accuracy of clinical laboratories in identifying head and neck cancers associated with HPV [1][4] Group 1: Industry Context - Head and neck cancers (HNCs) are increasingly common, particularly in males, with over 300,000 cases diagnosed annually in North America and Western Europe, representing about 4% of all cancers [2] - Accurate identification of HPV-driven HNCs is crucial as these patients have better prognoses, influencing treatment decisions [2] Group 2: EQA Program Details - The EQA program was developed to address the lack of proficiency checks for clinical labs working with FFPE samples, which are used for diagnosing HNCs [3] - Microbix created QAPs™ that mimic HNC patient samples, containing both IHC and PCR targets, to support the EQA program [5] - A pilot study involving 32 clinical laboratories revealed significant discrepancies in p16 IHC staining protocols, highlighting the need for improved diagnostic accuracy through reflex testing [4] Group 3: Company Profiles - Microbix Biosystems Inc. specializes in creating biological products for human health, with revenues targeting C$ 2.0 million or more per month and a focus on the global diagnostics industry [7] - Labquality Oy provides EQA services to over 8,000 customers in more than 60 countries, emphasizing quality in clinical laboratories and point-of-care testing [9]