Sebia UK is to hold a free seminar entitled 'Current trends in electrophoresis testing' on 24 June 2009 at Royal Holloway, University of London.
Aimed at clinical biochemists, immunologists and haematologists, the one-day event will feature guest speakers from hospital trusts around the country and will be chaired by Dr Robert Beetham.
The programme includes presentations on topical issues such as alpha 1-antitrypsin (A1AT) and carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT), along with testing strategies for monoclonal proteins.
Benefits of centralised electrophoresis testing will also be discussed following the successful implementation of this approach in the Path Links single-managed clinical pathology network.
A1AT deficiency is important to diagnose early, according to Sebia; it is one of the most common serious hereditary disorders in the world and can cause emphysema, liver disease and lung infections.
Relatives of those with the deficiency are offered screening to establish if they are carriers.
If the abnormal gene is identified, couples who want to start a family are offered genetic counselling.
The CDT assay is a relatively new technique that allows biomedical scientists and clinicians to screen and monitor patients for alcohol misuse in order to provide the best course of treatment for the patient.
With the number of alcohol-related deaths increasing every year in the UK, early diagnosis of alcohol abuse is critical.
This seminar forms part of a continuing initiative by Sebia UK to help laboratory personnel make best use of their professional skills.
In addition to external seminars, advice and support is provided through onsite training and electrophoresis workshops held in the fully equipped laboratory at the Sebia offices in Camberley.
