In the second of two articles for Pathology in Practice, retired biomedical scientist David Norcliffe, with David Manuel, looks at how clinical viscosity testing can be used more widely, with the measurement of viscosity having a considerable number of possible applications which are receiving further investigation.
Since the measurement of plasma viscosity (PV) in 1971,1 PV testing has become available in many haematology laboratories and has become a relatively well understood, fast, reliable, and standardised test. That said, the measurement and clinical application of PV is an ongoing progressive process, such as in the study by Gleghorn et al.2
Viscosity testing appears to be on the cusp of change. As its application during the pandemic has been realised, clinicians are starting to question where else this simple test may be used and how it may contribute to other conditions, to patient outcomes, and to efficiency savings.
At a time when resources are challenged, taking time to think creatively about what we do and how can be challenging. We are often too overwhelmed by the day job.
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