● General bacteriology

● Virology

● Serological testing

● Blood donor testing - blood borne viruses and syphilis

● Parasitology

Various technologies including molecular and point of care

devices are catered for and all schemes are designed so

that participating laboratories can use the method of their

choice.

Other types of laboratories may be covered by other

divisions of UK NEQAS

Further information is available for:

● The basis and benefits of external quality assessment

● Report formats and information provided in the reports

● Distribution policy, participant responsibilities and

performance monitoring

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UK NEQAS for Microbiology provides

external quality assessment for clinical

laboratories that carry out examinations in:

for MicrobiologyAccredited EQA schemeReference No: 001

W03401

for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology PO Box 63003, NW9 1GH Tel: + 44 (0)20 8905 9890 Fax: + 44 (0)20 8205 1488 E-mail: organiser@ukneqasmicro.org.uk web:http://www.ukneqasmicro.org.uk

Accredited EQA scheme Reference No: 001

© UK NEQAS for Microbiology

Schemes Available Bacteriology Parasitology AAFB microscopy Blood parasitology Antimicrobial Susceptibility Faecal parasitology Clostridium difficile Malaria rapid Community Medicine Parasite serology Faecal pathogens Toxoplasma IgM serology General bacteriology Toxoplasma serology (IgG/total antibody) Genital pathogens MRSA screening Mycobacterium culture Parasitology Teaching Schemes Superficial infections Blood Parasitology Syphilis serology Faecal Parasitology Throat infections Urinary Antigens: Legionella Virology Anti-HBs detection Molecular Blood borne viruses CMV DNA quantification Diagnostic serology (exanthem scheme) EBV DNA quantification Diagnostic serology (hepatitis screen) HBV DNA quantification Hepatitis B serology Hepatitis C RNA detection Hepatitis C serology HIV-1 RNA quantification HIV point of care Molecular detection of C. trachomatis HIV serology Molecular detection of human papillomavirus Immunity screen Molecular detection of mycobacteria Measles IgG serology Molecular detection of viruses in CSF Rubella IgG serology Virus identification Mycology Antifungal susceptibility Mycology

March 2011

Parasitology Schemes

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for Microbiology Accredited EQA schemeReference No: 001

The parasitology schemes provide a variety ofmethods and specimen formats to cover severalparasites and methods of detection. The ranges ofparasites in the faecal specimens include helminthova and larvae, protozoan cysts and oocysts andin the blood specimens, malaria parasites,microfilariae, trypanosomes and Leishmania. In addition to the EQA specimens, teachingprogrammes are available for both blood andfaecal parasitology.

No. of No. ofdistributions samples per

Scheme Examinations Sample format per year distribution Scoring

Blood parasitology Microscopic examination for Blood films 8 1 Presence or absence ofpresence of blood and on glass slides blood parasites includingtissue parasites % parasitaemia for P. falciparum

Faecal parasitology Examine for ova, cysts and Formalin fixed 8 2-3 Presence of parasite and stage larvae in faecal samples suspensions of

human faeces, fixedsmears and otherformats dependenton the parasite

Malaria rapid Testing for malarial antigen Lysed human 2 2 Presence or absence of P. falciparumblood or other malaria species antigens

Parasite serology Detection of antibodies to Liquid human 4 6 Presence or absence ofStrongyloides, Hydatid, serum antibodies to the parasiteAmoeba, Toxocara, T. cruzi,Shistosoma

Toxoplasma IgG Detection of IgG antibodies Liquid human 3 6 Presence or absence ofserology to Toxoplasma serum toxoplasma antibodies

Toxoplasma IgM Detection of IgM antibodies Liquid human 2 4 Presence or absence ofserology to Toxoplasma serum toxoplasma IgM antibodies

DOC.039904

Bacteriology Schemes

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for MicrobiologyAccredited EQA schemeReference No: 001

No. of No. ofdistributions samples per

Scheme Examinations Sample format per year distribution Scoring

AAFB microscopy Presence and absence of AFFB Fixed smear of 4 3 Presence or absence bacilli using ZN or sputum of AAFB bacilliimmunofluorescence

Antimicrobial Identification and determination Freeze dried 12 2 Susceptibility profile resultssusceptibility of antimicrobial susceptibilities pure cultures interpreted as susceptible,

to the appropriate antibiotics intermediate and resistant

Clostridium difficile Detection of toxigenic Clostridium Simulated 4 2 Presence of toxigenicdifficile freeze dried C. difficile and /or toxin

Typing results are liquid faecal

collected but not scored samples

Community medicine Isolation and identification of Two freeze dried 4 4 Organisms are classified as core orbacterial pathogens simulated clinical advanced with full scores given for

Susceptibility testing of specimens for species level identification for core

pure cultures identification and pathogens and genus level

Clinical details are providedtwo freeze dried identification for advanced pathogens

with each specimenpure cultures for Susceptibility profile results interpreted assusceptibility susceptible, intermediate and resistant

Faecal pathogens Isolation and identification Simulated freeze 3 2 Organisms are classified as core or

Clinical details are provided dried faecal advanced with full scores given for species

with each specimen specimens level identification for core pathogensand genus level identification foradvanced pathogens

General bacteriology Isolation and identification of Simulated freeze 12 3 Organisms are classified as core orbacterial pathogens dried clinical advanced with full scores given for species

Clinical details are provided specimens level identification for core pathogens

with each specimen and genus level identification foradvanced pathogens

Genital pathogens Isolation, identification, and if Simulated freeze 3 2 Organisms are classified as core orappropriate determination of dried genital advanced with full scores given for speciesantimicrobial susceptibilities clinical specimens level identification for core pathogens

Clinical details are provided and genus level identification for

with each specimen advanced pathogens

Susceptibility profile results interpretedas susceptible, intermediate and resistant

Molecular detection Direct and post culture detection Freeze dried 3 2 Presence or absence ofand resistance testing of mycobacteria and rifampicin simulated sputum mycobacteria and rifampicin resistanceof mycobacteria resistance genes using molecular

methods

Genotyping results arealso collated and presented forin-house comparisons but not scored

These schemes are suitable for allclinical diagnostic laboratories thatundertake routine bacteriology,isolation, identification, microscopyand susceptibility testing.

There are also some schemesdesigned to cater for thoselaboratories carrying out moleculartesting.

DOC.039804

Bacteriology Schemes

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yNo. of No. ofdistributions samples per

Scheme Examinations Sample format per year distribution Scoring

Molecular detection of Detection of Chlamydia Simulated 3 4 Presence or absence of Chlamydia Chlamydia trachomatis trachomatis endocervical material trachomatis

MRSA screening (culture Detection of MRSA Simulated freeze 6 2 Presence or absence of MRSAand molecular detection) dried clinical

specimens suitablefor MRSA screening

Mycobacterium culture Detection of mycobacteria Freeze dried 3 4 Presence or absence ofby culture simulated sputum a Mycobacterium sp.

Superficial infections Isolation, identification and Simulated 3 2 Organisms are classified asif appropriate determination freeze dried core or advanced with full scoresof antimicrobial susceptibilities clinical specimens given for species level identification for

Clinical details are provided core pathogens and genus level

with each specimen identification for advanced pathogens

Susceptibility profile results interpretedas susceptible, intermediate and resistant

Throat infections Isolation, identification and Simulated 3 2 Organisms are classified asif appropriate determination freeze dried core or advanced with full scoresof antimicrobial susceptibilities throat specimens given for species level identification for

Clinical details are provided core pathogens and genus level

with each specimen identification for advanced pathogens.

Susceptibility profile results interpretedas susceptible, intermediate and resistant

Urinary antigens: Detection of L. pneumophila Urine sample 3 3 Presence or absence of L. pneumophilaLegionella antigens in urine antigens

for MicrobiologyAccredited EQA schemeReference No: 001

DOC.039804

Molecular Schemes

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yThese schemes are suitable forlaboratories using molecularmethods for the detection ofmicroorganisms.

Molecular schemes arequalitative and/or quantitativeand where relevant includegenotyping.

No. of No. ofdistributions samples per

Scheme Examinations Sample format per year distribution Scoring

CMV DNA quantification CMV DNA quantification Freeze dried 3 2 Reported log difference in viralhuman plasma load between the specimen pair

EBV DNA quantification EBV DNA quantification Freeze dried 3 2 Reported log difference inhuman plasma viral load between the

specimen pair

HBV DNA quantification HBV DNA quantification Freeze dried 2 4 Reported log difference inhuman serum viral load between the

specimen pairs

HCV RNA detection HCV RNA qualitative detection, Freeze dried 2 2 Based separately on the quantification and genotype human plasma relevant markers reported:detection Qualitative: presence or absence

Quantitative detection:Reported log difference in viral load between the specimen pair

Genotyping: correct identification

HIV-1 RNA quantification HIV-1 RNA quantification Freeze dried 3 2 Reported log difference in viral loadhuman plasma between the specimen pair

Molecular detection and Direct and post culture detection Freeze dried 3 2 Presence or absence of resistance testing of of Mycobacteria and rifampicin simulated Mycobacteria and rifampicinMycobacteria susceptibility testing sputum material resistance

Genotyping results are also collatedand presented for in-house comparisons

Molecular detection of Determining the presence of Simulated 3 4 Presence or absence of Chlamydia trachomatis Chlamydia trachomatis endocervical Chlamydia trachomatis

material

Molecular detection Determining the presence of HPV Cervical 3 4 Qualitative detection of HPV highof HPV high risk genotypes in endocervical specimens in risk genotypes

specimens and identification of liquid basedgenotypes present cytology fluid

Molecular detection of Determining the presence of HSV-1 Simulated 2 6 Qualitative detection of HSV-1 DNA,viruses in CSF DNA, HSV-2 DNA, VZV DNA and cerebrospinal HSV-2 DNA, VZV DNA and

Enteroviruses RNA fluid Enteroviruses RNA

MRSA screening Determining the presence of MRSA Simulated freeze 6 2 Separate score applied to theby culture and/or molecular methods dried specimen different methods (culture/molecular)

based on presence or absence

for Microbiology Accredited EQA schemeReference No: 001

DOC.040104

Serology Schemes

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yThese schemes are suited for clinicaldiagnostic laboratories that undertaketests for microbial antigen or antibody.The schemes cover a wide variety ofserological tests for viruses such as HIVand Hepatitis B, bacteria such as syphilis,and parasites such as toxoplasma. Some ofthe serological schemes, such as Bloodborne viruses, are designed forlaboratories for blood donor screeningwhilst others assist with diagnostic testingsuch as the Acute Hepatitis screen thatcovers detection of IgM antibodies to HAV,

CMV and EBV. Schemes consist of eithersingle marker or multiple markers, someincluding the use of confirmatory tests. General information on scoring: specimensare characterised using a range of assaysand are scored when pre-distributionresults concur. Participating laboratoriesare then scored on their ability to obtainthe consensus pre-distribution result.Specifics or exceptions for individualschemes are indicated in the Scoringcolumn in the table below.

No. of No. ofdistributions samples per

Scheme Examinations Sample format per year distribution Scoring

Anti-HBs detection Determining levels of Liquid human 3 6 Qualitative detection at greateranti-HBs antibody serum or less than 10 mIU/mL

Blood borne viruses Hepatitis B surface antigen, Liquid human 12 3 Positive or negative forHepatitis C antibody, Human serum the relevant markerImmunodeficiency virus antibody

Diagnostic serology: Detection of IgM to HAV, Liquid human 2 3 Positive or negative for the relevantacute hepatitis CMV and EBV serum IgM marker with EBV infection scored

on the interpretation of the results forthe combination of tests performedby the laboratory

Diagnostic serology: Rubella IgM, Parvovirus B19 Liquid human 2 3 Positive or negative for the relevantexanthem IgM, anti-streptolysin O serum IgM marker with acute streptococcal

and anti-DNase B antibodies antibodies scored on combined resultreported for ASO and/or anti-DNase B

Hepatitis B serology Hepatitis B surface antigen Liquid human 3 6 Positive or negative for the relevantHepatitis B core antibody serum markerHepatitis B e antigenHepatitis B e antibody

Hepatitis C serology Hepatitis C antibody Liquid human 3 6 Anti-HCV positive or negative(reporting of screening serumand confirmatory tests)

HIV Point of care HIV antibody/antigen screening Liquid human 4 2 Positive or negative for the relevantwith point of care testing devices serum marker

HIV serology HIV antigen/antibody covering a Liquid human 3 6 HIV-1 or 2 positive or negativewide range of test methods serumand antigen sources

Immunity screen Hepatitis A IgG (or total Ab), Liquid human 2 6 Positive or negative for the relevantCMV IgG, VZV IgG serum marker

Measles IgG serology Measles IgG antibody Liquid human 2 4 Measles IgG positive or negativeserum

Parasite serology Detection of antibodies to Liquid human 4 6 Presence or absence of antibodiesStrongyloides, Hydatid, Amoeba, serum to the parasiteToxocara, T. cruzi, Shistosoma

Rubella IgG serology Determining levels of Liquid human 2 6 Qualitative detection at greaterRubella IgG serum or less than 10 IU/mL

Syphilis serology Reagin, Treponema pallidum Liquid human 2 6 Positive or negative for the relevantagglutination tests, FTA- Abs, serum marker. Reagin not scored if negative forImmunoassay total Ab Reagin but syphilis serology positive.

Toxoplasma IgG Detection of IgG antibodies Liquid human 3 6 Presence or absence of toxoplasmaserology to Toxoplasma serum antibodies

Toxoplasma IgM Detection of IgM antibodies Liquid human 2 4 Presence or absence of toxoplasmaserology to Toxoplasma serum IgM antibodies

DOC.040003

for Microbiology Accredited EQA schemeReference No: 001

Mycology Schemes

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These schemes are suited for all clinicaldiagnostic laboratories that undertake theisolation, identification and assessment ofantifungal susceptibility of pathogenicfungi.

The Mycology scheme covers a wide rangeof fungi and yeasts.

In addition to the common fungalpathogens, rarer organisms are distributedin order to give participants the

opportunity to familiarise themselves withthem.

These schemes are designed to improveidentification of common dermatophytesand progress knowledge of fungiincreasingly associated with importantinfections in the immuno-compromisedpatient. Images of the candidate isolatesproduced in the reference laboratory areprovided with helpful expert comment.

No. of No. ofdistributions samples per

Scheme Examinations Sample format per year distribution Scoring

Mycology Isolation and identification Spore 3 4 Organisms are classified asof fungal organisms suspension core or advanced with full scores

given for species level identificationfor core pathogens and genus levelidentification for advanced pathogens

Antifungal Antifungal susceptibility testing Spore 3 2 Susceptibility profile resultssusceptibility primarily in yeasts but may suspension interpreted as susceptible,

include some filamentous intermediate and resistantfungi such as aspergillus

DOC.040203

for MicrobiologyAccredited EQA schemeReference No: 001

Virus Identification

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for Microbiology Accredited EQA schemeReference No: 001

The scheme includes viruses that can be routinely isolated in cell cultures:l Herpesviridae, e.g Herpes simplex virus 1/2 and Varicella Zoster Virusl Adenovirusesl Orthomyxo- and Paramyxoviridae, e.g. Influenza viruses, Parainfluenza viruses, Respiratory Syncytial Virusl Enteroviruses, e.g. Coxsackie viruses and Echoviruses.

No. of No. ofdistributions samples per

Scheme Examinations Sample format per year distribution Scoring

Virus identification Report on virus identified Liquid or viscous 2 4 Identity of virususing your method of transport media The score awarded dependschoice according to sample on the virus species and/ortype and clinical scenario type/group

This scheme is suited for all clinicaldiagnostic laboratories that undertake theidentification of viruses from varioussample types. Brief clinical details areprovided with the specimens whichcontain live virus in cells or free form

depending on the virus. Viruses can beidentified directly by molecular methodsand by immunofluorescence (whenapplicable) or identified after inoculationinto cell cultures.

DOC.040303

The Basis of EQA

Accredited EQA scheme Reference No: 001

for Microbiology

Published: 24/08/09 Expires: NA © UK NEQAS for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology PO Box 63003, NW9 1GH Tel: + 44 (0)20 8905 9890 Fax: + 44 (0)20 8205 1488 E-mail: organiser@ukneqasmicro.org.uk web:http://www.ukneqasmicro.org.uk

Participants receive specimens at regular intervals, examine them by their routine methods and report their results to their organising centre. Immediately after the closing date of the distribution, participants are notified of the intended results. Shortly after (normally within 10 days) a full analysis of results is available giving details of overall performance for all partici-pants. Each participant receives an analysis of their individual results both for current specimens and over a period of time allowing assessment of performance. Country specific results are available to participants within a country where the total of participants in the scheme is 10 or more.

Organising Laboratory Participants

Prepare QA Specimens Examine Specimens

Report Results Analyse Results

Prepare Report Evaluate

W00202

for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology PO Box 63003, NW9 1GH Tel: + 44 (0)20 8905 9890 Fax: + 44 (0)20 8205 1488 E-mail: organiser@ukneqasmicro.org.uk web:http://www.ukneqasmicro.org.uk

Accredited EQA scheme Reference No: 001

© UK NEQAS for Microbiology

Benefits of Participation in EQA Schemes Benefits of participation are that it:

• Provides laboratory management with an insight into their performance • Improves both national and local standards • Reveals unsuspected areas of difficulty • Provides an educational stimulus for improvement • Acts as a check on the efficacy of internal quality control procedures • Demonstrates to colleagues and customers a commitment to quality

EQA is an educational tool that allows participants to monitor, evaluate and improve their own performance.

W00302

for Microbiology

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What areas of microbiology are covered?

The schemes cover bacteriology, mycology, parasitology and virology for a range of technologies including molecular, serology, culture and microscopy.

Q. What type of specimens are covered by the

schemes? The majority of specimens are straightforward and correspond to those likely to be found in clinical practice. Occasionally, more challenging specimens may be distributed for educational purposes or where recognition of an unusual pathogen may be of importance to the patient or community. New types of specimens are introduced into the repertoire from time to time and participants are notified when these become available.

Q. How does the service work? Specimens are prepared in the organising laboratory and distributed to participants with reply forms. Approximately 12 dispatches are made each year and participants receive samples for whatever specimen types they are registered for. The frequency of distribution types ranges from twice a year to 12 times a year. Participants examine the specimens in their laboratory and report their findings to the Organiser through the web (or fax if necessary). Replies are analysed and participants receive an individual report which includes the overall results for the distribution.

Q. How reliable are the specimens? The specimens are subjected to rigorous quality control in the organising laboratory. Stringent manufacturing practices, past experience with the stability of the specimens and sampling of the batch within UK NEQAS provides good assurance that a participant will not receive an unrepresentative specimen.

Q. How long do I have for testing? What is the timescale for reporting? For most distribution types three weeks are allowed between the UK dispatch date and return of results.

Q. When will I find out how well I did?

Intended results are available on the day following the close of the distribution and accessed through the secure area of the website.

Q. What happens if I do not get the expected

result? Repeat samples (free of charge) are provided on request. Participants are encouraged to contact us for advice.

DOC.044802

Introduction The UK National External Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology (UK NEQAS) is organised from the External Quality Assurance Department (eQAD) at the Health Protection Agency (HPA). UK NEQAS was established in 1971 and provides a comprehensive quality assessment service to in excess of 1660 clinical microbiology laboratories in the UK and abroad and is recognised throughout Europe and beyond as a major contributor to quality assurance in clinical diagnostic microbiology. The scheme is educational in design and provides participants with a wide range of specimens and constructive feedback. The quality assessment service allows participants to monitor the effectiveness of their quality assurance measures and to detect and remedy problems, thus allowing continuing quality improvement. Please contact us if you have any further questions.

for Microbiology Q. When will I find out how well other

laboratories performed? Reports are usually available within 10 working days of the close of the distribution.

Q. What is the period of membership?

Membership of the scheme starts 1st April each year and continues until 31st March in the next year. If a participant joins part way through the annual period, a reduced fee may be payable reflecting the number of samples to be supplied for that part year.

Q. What liability do participants of the

schemes have? Participants of the scheme have entire responsibility for all samples distributed to them under the scheme and all activities carried out by them or any third party in relation to the samples from the time of delivery of the samples.

Q. How can I see my reports? Electronic copies of reports are accessible on the secure area of the UK NEQAS website.

Q. How can I return my results? Results can be returned electronically using a web form on the secure area of the website.

Q. Are the schemes accredited? • All of the schemes are accredited by

Clinical Pathology Accreditation (UK) Ltd.

• The CPA standards are based on ISO 9001:2000 ISO Guide 43 part 1 and 2, and ILAC Guide 13.

Q. What is the secure area of the website?

The secure area of the website is accessed by entering your unique laboratory identifier code and password. This area is used for results entry and access to reports and other information specific to your laboratory. For guidance please see http://www.ukneqasmicro.org.uk/pdf/w032.pdf

Q. What benefits can participants expect?

• Free repeat specimens are available on request together with previous distributed specimens and strains, thus allowing participants to monitor current and recurring problems.

• Country specific performance is provided

when more than 10 laboratories participate, therefore participants can benchmark against their national standard.

• The quality and frequency of distributions

(especially in general bacteriology, blood borne viruses and parasitology) consolidates quality practice. Participants receive reliable, homogeneous material as specimens are subjected to extensive characterisation and quality control before release for testing.

• Dissemination of results via the secure

website allows participants to investigate problems immediately.

• Tight scrutiny by and input from UK

professional microbiologists ensures relevance to participating clinical laboratories.

DOC.044802

Please contact us if you need more information or have any other queries about UK NEQAS.

The Organiser UK NEQAS for Microbiology P.O. Box 63003 London NW9 1GH Tel: +44 (0)20 8905 9890 Fax: +44 (0)20 8205 1488 Email: organiser@ukneqasmicro.org.uk Web: http://www.ukneqasmicro.org.uk

for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology PO Box 63003, NW9 1GH Tel: + 44 (0)20 8905 9890 Fax: + 44 (0)20 8205 1488 E-mail: organiser@ukneqasmicro.org.uk web:http://www.ukneqasmicro.org.uk

Accredited EQA scheme Reference No: 001

© UK NEQAS for Microbiology

Why choose UK NEQAS?

The UK NEQAS for Microbiology offers a number of features and benefits:

Professionally lead and educational service o The service is organised by professional microbiologists all with clinical laboratory experience - Participants receive

realistic challenges and relevant advice on problems

o Senior staff of sufficient calibre to recognise opportunities and develop the service

o The service is subject to input from and scrutiny by UK professional associations - Ensures that the service is

professionally relevant to participants' laboratories

o The emphasis of the service is on education rather than on licensing - Participants receive more interesting and professionally satisfying EQA specimens

Comprehensive o A comprehensive service covering most areas of clinical microbiology - Enrolment in UK NEQAS will satisfy all EQA

requirements of most participants

o Each area of microbiology is covered by individual schemes - Participants can enrol in any combination of schemes and

thus pay only for what they wish to receive

o High frequency of distributions - Allows participants to regularly monitor the quality of their procedures

o Micro-organisms distributed include some important pathogens infrequently isolated in many countries - Allows

participants to be sure that they are capable of recognising ‘imported’ infections

o Wherever possible material used is recently derived from clinical sources- Provides a more realistic and relevant

challenge to participants' methods as material reflects recent epidemiology and that strains are not laboratory adapted

Reliable o Established for nearly 40 years - Long experience in providing reliable, realistic EQA specimens and useful analysis of

participants' results

o Specimens are subjected to extensive characterisation and quality control before release - Ensures that participants

receive reliable, stable and homogeneous material

o Schemes are accredited by Clinical Pathology Accreditation UK Ltd (CPA) under Centre Reference Number 0001

International participant base o Widely used in Europe – Participation demonstrates an internationally recognised commitment to quality

o Country specific performance is provided when more than 10 laboratories participate - Allows participants to compare

their individual results with the national consensus

Customer focussed o Free repeat specimens available on request together with previously distributed specimens and strains - Allows

participants to investigate and resolve problems revealed by the scheme

o Individual performance data provided after each distribution with historical information on request - Allows participants to

monitor current and recurring problems

o Minimum delay between the close of distributions and issue of reports (intended results displayed on the internet from the

day after distribution closing dates) - Allows participants to investigate problems soon after discovery

o The internet site allows participants to submit their results electronically and to view distribution reports and digital images

where relevant.

for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology PO Box 63003, NW9 1GH Tel: + 44 (0)20 8905 9890 Fax: + 44 (0)20 8205 1488 E-mail: organiser@ukneqasmicro.org.uk web:http://www.ukneqasmicro.org.uk

Accredited EQA scheme Reference No: 001

© UK NEQAS for Microbiology

Participants from European countries

Austria

Hungary

Belgium

Lichtenstein

Croatia

Malta

Cyprus

Netherlands

Denmark

Norway

Finland

Poland

France

Portugal

Germany

Romania

Gibraltar

Slovenia

Greece

Spain

Greenland

Sweden

Iceland

Switzerland

for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology PO Box 63003, NW9 1GH Tel: + 44 (0)20 8905 9890 Fax: + 44 (0)20 8205 1488 E-mail: organiser@ukneqasmicro.org.uk web:http://www.ukneqasmicro.org.uk

Accredited EQA scheme Reference No: 001

© UK NEQAS for Microbiology

Ireland

Turkey

Italy

UK

Participants from Non-European countries

Bahrain

Morocco

Burkina Faso

Nigeria

Cameroon

Oman

Egypt

Qatar

Hong Kong

Saudi Arabia

India

South Africa

Iran

Tanzania

for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology PO Box 63003, NW9 1GH Tel: + 44 (0)20 8905 9890 Fax: + 44 (0)20 8205 1488 E-mail: organiser@ukneqasmicro.org.uk web:http://www.ukneqasmicro.org.uk

Accredited EQA scheme Reference No: 001

© UK NEQAS for Microbiology

Israel

Uganda

Kenya

U.A.E

Kuwait

U.S.A

Laos

Vietnam

Malawi

Zambia

Macau

Zimbabwe

© UK NEQAS for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology UK NEQAS for Microbiology

UK NEQAS for Microbiology An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology

An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology

Accredited EQA Scheme

Reference No. 001 for Microbiology

Intended results

Number of specimens scored, including non

returns

9999 Your lab ID number

Your score

Your result

Cumulative Score information

Graph of performance rating over a rolling twelve distributions

(1 to 6 years depending on frequency of distributions)

Graph of score by distribution over a rolling twelve distributions

(1 to 6 years depending on frequency of distributions)

Mean score & standard error

Your performance rating

© UK NEQAS for Microbiology

*Response categories.

Actual methods / response will be

stated

**Number of participants

in each designated category

Overall results

Arrow indicates

your method

Warning statement will appear if your score is less than

fully correct

9999

*Not all responses categories may be displayed, especially where a category contains very small number of participants

** The data displayed in the first column is country specific. For instance UK participants will only see results for the United Kingdom here. Where there are less than ten participants in a country, only one column will appear displaying results for all participants

for Microbiology Accredited EQA Scheme

Reference No. 001

UK NEQAS for Microbiology An International Quality Assessment Service for Microbiology

Scheme Price in INRNumber of Distribution

per Year

Number of Samples Per Distribution

Total Number of Samples

Have to Report

AAFB Microscopy 35200 3 3 9C. difficile 48500 4 2 8Community Medicine 45800 4 4 16Faecal Pathogens 40000 3 2 6General Bacteriology & Antimicrobial Susceptibility 134200 12 5 60

Genital Pathogens 40000 3 2 6MRSA Screening 58400 6 2 12Mycobacterium Culture 38400 3 4 12Superficial Infections 39600 3 2 6Syphilis Serology 28600 2 6 12Throat Infections 40000 3 2 6Urinary Antigen : Legionella 37400 3 3 9

CMV DNA quantification 41900 3 2 6EBV DNA quantification 46300 3 2 6HBV DNA quantification 45100 2 4 8Hepatitis C RNA detection 36700 2 2 4HIV 1 RNA quantification 42500 3 2 6Molecular detection of C. trachomatis 38600 3 4 12Molecular detection of HPV 89300 3 2 6Molecular Detection of mycobacteria 44800 3 2 6Molecular Detection of viruses in CSF 37400 2 6 12

Mycology Culture 36900 3 4 12Antifungal susceptibility 24300 3 2 6

Blood Parasitology 62500 8 1 8Faecal Parasitology 78400 8 2 to 3 18 to 20Malaria Rapid 34800 2 2 4Parasite Serology 53400 4 6 24Toxoplasma serology 53700 4 4 to 6 18 to 20

Anti HBs Detection 40400 3 6 18Blood Borne Virus 102000 12 3 36Diagnostic Serology (exanthem screen) 34300 2 3 6Diagnostic Serology (hepatitis screen) 34300 2 3 6Hepatitis B Serology 41700 3 6 18Hepatitis C Serology 38500 3 6 18HIV Point of Care 42500 4 2 8HIV Serology 41200 3 6 18Immunity Screen 40700 2 6 12Measles IgG Serology 32400 2 4 8Rubella IgG Serology 32400 2 6 12Virus Identification 69000 2 4 8

MOLECULAR

MYCOLOGY

Subscription Details for UK NEQAS for MICROBIOLOGY Specimen's 2012-13.

BACTERIOLOGY

PARASITOLOGY

Valid upto : 31st May 2012

VIROLOGY

UK NEQAS Microbiology distribution dates (April 2012 - March 2013)UK dispatch dates are shown. Overseas specimens are sent in advance to ensure that participantsreceive them on or around the UK dispatch date. While every effort is made to adhere to the statedschedule, it may sometimes be necessary to alter the dates of distributions for operational reasons.

AAFB microscopy EBV DNA quantification Measles IgG serology28/05/2012 30/04/2012 30/04/201217/09/2012 20/08/2012 12/11/201207/01/2013 07/01/2013 Molecular detection of Chlamydia trachomatisAnti-HBs detection Faecal parasitology 25/06/201202/04/2012 02/04/2012 15/10/201223/07/2012 28/05/2012 04/03/201312/11/2012 25/06/2012 Molecular detection of HPVAntifungal susceptibility 23/07/2012 28/05/201202/04/2012 17/09/2012 17/09/201223/07/2012 12/11/2012 04/02/201312/11/2012 04/02/2013 Molecular detection of MycobacteriaAntimicrobial susceptibility 04/03/2013 28/05/201202/04/2012 Faecal pathogens 17/09/201230/04/2012 25/06/2012 07/01/201328/05/2012 15/10/2012 Molecular detection of viruses in CSF25/06/2012 04/02/2013 23/07/201223/07/2012 General bacteriology 04/03/201320/08/2012 02/04/2012 MRSA screening17/09/2012 30/04/2012 30/04/201215/10/2012 28/05/2012 25/06/201212/11/2012 25/06/2012 20/08/201207/01/2013 23/07/2012 15/10/201204/02/2013 20/08/2012 07/01/201304/03/2013 17/09/2012 04/03/2013Blood parasitology 15/10/2012 Mycobacterium culture02/04/2012 12/11/2012 28/05/201228/05/2012 07/01/2013 17/09/201225/06/2012 04/02/2013 07/01/201323/07/2012 04/03/2013 Mycology17/09/2012 Genital pathogens 02/04/201212/11/2012 25/06/2012 23/07/201204/02/2013 15/10/2012 12/11/201204/03/2013 04/03/2013 Parasite serologyBlood-borne viruses HBV DNA quantification 30/04/201202/04/2012 25/06/2012 20/08/201230/04/2012 12/11/2012 15/10/201228/05/2012 HCV RNA detection 07/01/201325/06/2012 02/04/2012 Rubella IgG serology23/07/2012 15/10/2012 25/06/201220/08/2012 Hepatitis B serology 07/01/201317/09/2012 30/04/2012 Syphilis serology15/10/2012 20/08/2012 25/06/201212/11/2012 07/01/2013 04/02/201307/01/2013 Hepatitis C serology Superficial infections04/02/2013 28/05/2012 30/04/201204/03/2013 17/09/2012 20/08/2012CMV DNA quantification 04/02/2013 07/01/201330/04/2012 HIV Point of Care Throat infections20/08/2012 28/05/2012 28/05/201207/01/2013 20/08/2012 17/09/2012Clostridum difficile 12/11/2012 04/03/201330/04/2012 04/03/2013 Toxoplasma serology23/07/2012 HIV serology 30/04/201212/11/2012 25/06/2012 20/08/201204/02/2013 15/10/2012 15/10/2012Community medicine 04/03/2013 07/01/201330/04/2012 HIV1 RNA quantification Urinary Antigens: Legionella20/08/2012 28/05/2012 28/05/201215/10/2012 17/09/2012 17/09/201207/01/2013 04/02/2013 04/03/2013Diagnostic serology: exanthem Immunity screen Virus identification23/07/2012 02/04/2012 28/05/201204/02/2013 15/10/2012 12/11/2012Diagnostic serology: hepatitis Malaria Rapid02/04/2012 23/07/201215/10/2012 04/02/2013

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