Intermediate
Technical
IVT
borderline result
A screening result that falls near the cutoff value, requiring careful interpretation and possible repeat testing.
Full Definition
A borderline result indicates analyte concentrations that are close to but do not clearly exceed established cutoff values for newborn screening tests. These results require careful clinical correlation, consideration of collection variables, and often prompt repeat testing to determine if referral for diagnostic evaluation is warranted. Borderline results may reflect analytical variation, early disease states, or physiological factors affecting analyte levels.
Usage
Usage note: Avoid using as synonym for 'abnormal' - borderline specifically indicates proximity to cutoffs.
In Context
- "The borderline result for phenylalanine prompted immediate repeat collection within 24 hours." — Follow-up protocol
- "Clinical correlation is essential when interpreting borderline results in premature infants." — Interpretation guidelines
Also known as
indeterminate result
marginal result
Contrasted with
clearly abnormal
clearly normal
Don't confuse with
repeat screen
presumptive positive