Cross-Reactivity
Analytical interference where antibodies or reagents react with unintended substances, potentially affecting hormone measurement accuracy.
Full Definition
Cross-reactivity occurs when laboratory assays detect structurally similar compounds in addition to the target hormone, leading to falsely elevated or altered results. This phenomenon is particularly important in hormone testing because many hormones share similar chemical structures (such as steroid hormones) or may have metabolites that interfere with assays. Cross-reactivity can result from antibody specificity limitations, sample matrix effects, or the presence of interfering substances like medications or endogenous compounds. Clinical editors should recognize that cross-reactivity may explain unexpected results and that newer analytical methods like mass spectrometry generally have improved specificity compared to immunoassays.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as an adjective (cross-reactive substances).
In Context
- "The falsely elevated testosterone result was attributed to cross-reactivity with an anabolic steroid." — Laboratory troubleshooting report
- "Cross-reactivity studies are essential for validating new hormone assay methods." — Assay development documentation