Uncertainty of measurement in andrology: UK best practice guideline from the Association of Biomedical Andrologists

Abstract

Uncertainty of measurement has become a paramount factor to consider in pathology. In the UK, consideration of uncertainty of measurement is mandatory for medical laboratories who apply to be accredited against ISO15189:2012 via the United Kingdom Accreditation Service. This guideline intends to help those working within diagnostic andrology to better understand the concept of uncertainty, and how it can be applied to semen analysis and post-vasectomy semen analysis. The various areas where uncertainty may exist are identified, and guidance is provided to minimise this uncertainty. This guidance is produced by the Association of Biomedical Andrologists alongside experts in the field of andrology, in order to aid laboratory scientists in understanding and undertaking important tasks that will improve quality of their service.

Keywords:

• Uncertainty of measurement
• andrology
• semen analysis
• ISO15189
• accreditation

Acknowledgement

We are grateful to all of the andrologists, particularly the members of the ABA Executive Committee, who provided useful comments to help improve this guideline.