Three Case Reports Highlighting the Critical Role of Laboratory-Clinical Communication in Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy.

BACKGROUND

Effective laboratory-clinical communication is pivotal for accurate diagnosis. This study presents three cases where collaboration identified critical diagnostic insights initially overlooked.

METHODS

Laboratory personnel detected abnormal results and proactively communicated with clinicians to recommend additional tests. Clinical history and follow-up data were analyzed.

RESULTS

In all cases, isolated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) elevation masked underlying conditions: rhabdomyolysis in two young patients and statin-induced myopathy in an elderly patient. Laboratory-initiated communication prompted timely interventions, avoiding unnecessary procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Bidirectional communication between laboratories and clinicians mitigates diagnostic errors and enhances patient safety.