EFLM Survey Reveals PFAS Dependency in IVD Technologies and Uncertain End-of-Life Pathways
A European Federation of Laboratory Medicine survey across seven countries assessed the use and disposal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in medical laboratory technologies. PFAS remain essential for many IVD device functions, yet evolving regulations and potential health risks are driving a need for alternatives. The review highlights that advances in analytical detection of PFAS in biological samples may themselves become diagnostic tools, while calling for harmonised global guidelines on safe laboratory use.
The original study
A comprehensive review on PFAS including survey results from the EFLM Member Societies.
- Authors
- Ozben T, Fragão-Marques M, Tomasi A
- Journal
- Clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine
- Type
- Journal Article, Review
- PMID
- 38280842
Original abstract
OBJECTIVES: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a large class of synthetic chemicals widely used for their unique properties. Without PFAS, many medical device and in vitro diagnostic technologies would not be able to perform their intended purposes. Potential health risks associated with exposure to PFAS influence their use in IVD applications. This paper aims to assess the current situation concerning PFAS, including regulations and legislations for their use. It is important to know what happens to (PFAS) at the end of their lives in medical laboratories. METHODS: A survey was conducted in March 2023 to collect information on the potential emission and end-of-life of PFAS-containing medical technologies in the medical laboratories of the EFLM member societies. A series of questions were presented to the EFLM national societies and the results were documented. RESULTS: Eight respondents participated in the survey, representing EFLM member societies in seven different countries including hospital laboratories, university laboratories, and private laboratories. CONCLUSIONS: PFAS uses in MD and IVD are influenced by several factors, including evolving regulations, advances in technology, safety and efficacy of these substances. Advancements in analytical techniques may lead to more sensitive and precise methods for detecting and quantifying PFAS in biological samples, which can be essential for IVD applications related to biomarker analysis and disease diagnosis. Collaboration among regulatory agencies, industry, research institutions, hospitals, and laboratories on a global scale can aid in establishing harmonized guidelines and standards for the use of PFAS, ensuring consistency and safety within their applications.