Reply to Verougstraete et al. Comment on HbA_1c determination from HemaSpot blood collection devices: comparison of home‐prepared dried blood spots with standard venous blood analysis

Abstract

volumetric absorptive microsampling (VAMS)] as an alternative for HbA 1c monitoring in a home-sampling context [2]. Although the reports cited in the discussion are almost the same as those cited by us, our study was apparently missed, despite showing great resemblance to the authors' work. It is particularly relevant that we also used a questionnaire to conclude that patients preferred the alternative sampling technique over traditional blood sampling. We regret that Hall et al. were apparently not up-to-date with the literature. Regarding the statement 'the combination of a robust desiccating DBS device, home sample preparation and return by post, to our knowledge has not been reported for HbA 1c ', we wish to point out that we have already reported on this subject, although using DBS and VAMS rather than Hema-Spot. In addition, in the study by Fokkema et al. [6], HbA 1c results obtained in unsupervised home-sampled DBS were compared with venous samples taken by laboratory personnel.

Dried blood spots and HbA1c

“…[5] wrote to highlight some potential flaws in Hall et al ’s conclusions, citing national and international quality requirements for reporting of HbA 1c , the lack of a confirmation cohort of samples to check the correction factor, and the short duration between collection and analysis for the majority of samples collected at home. These issues are addressed in the response by Hall et al [6], which provides useful additional information about their study.…”