Performance evaluation of the point-of-care testing kit “Rapidchip^® H-FABP” for the quantitative determination of heart-type fatty acid-binding protein (H-FABP) in human blood and plasma

Abstract

The heart-type fatty acid-binding protein (H-FABP) plays a practical role as an early myocardial marker in the diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The basic assay performance of “Rapidchip^® H-FABP” (SEKISUI MEDICAL Co., LTD.), which is used for the quantitative determination of H-FABP, was evaluated. To verify the assay performance indicated in the package insert, precision, measurement range, interfering substances and prozone phenomena were examined. We also compared the assay with other commercially available kits and observed excellent correlation, with the exception of three samples. These discrepancies were analyzed by immunoprecipitation. In conclusion, this newly developed point-of-care testing (POCT) kit provides an accurate, precise and easy-to-use means of routine measurement of H-FABP in clinical laboratories. We hope that this kit will be a useful tool for the diagnosis and treatment of ACS in emergency situations, home medical care and during disasters.