NB: Versi on adopt ed by t he Worl d Assembl y of Del egat es of t he OI E i n May 2013

OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013 1

C H A P T E R 1 . 1 . 5 .
PRI NCI PLES AND METHODS OF
VALI DATI ON OF DI AGNOSTI C ASSAYS
FOR I NFECTI OUS DI SEASES
INTRODUCTION
Validation is a process that determines the fitness of an assay
1
, which has been properly
developed, optimised and standardised, for an intended purpose. All diagnostic assays (laboratory
and field assays) should be validated for the species in which they will be used. Validation includes
estimates of the analytical and diagnostic performance characteristics of a test. In the context of this
chapter, an assay that has completed the first three stages of the validation pathway (see Figure 1
below), including performance characterisation, can be designated as validated for the original
intended purpose(s). To maintain a validated assay status, however, it is necessary to carefully
monitor the assays performance under conditions of routine use, often by tracking the behaviour of
assay controls over time. This ensures that the assay, as originally validated, consistently maintains
its performance characteristics. Should it no longer produce results consistent with the original
validation data, the assay may be rendered unfit for its intended purpose(s). Thus, a validated
assay is continuously assessed to assure it maintains its fitness for purpose through both the
assessment of results of the assay controls included with each run and through on-going
assessment during routine use in the targeted population.
Assays applied to individuals or populations have many purposes, such as aiding in: documenting
freedom from disease in a country or region, preventing spread of disease through trade,
contributing to eradication of an infection from a region or country, confirming diagnosis of clinical
cases, estimating infection prevalence to facilitate risk analysis, identifying infected animals toward
implementation of control measures, and classifying animals for herd health or immune status post-
vaccination. A single assay may be validated for one or more intended purposes by optimising its
performance characteristics for each purpose, e.g. setting diagnostic sensitivity (DSe) high, with
associated lower diagnostic specificity (DSp) for a screening assay, or conversely, setting DSp high
with associated lower DSe for a confirmatory assay.
The ever-changing repertoire of new and unique diagnostic reagents coupled with many novel
assay platforms and protocols has precipitated discussions about how to properly validate these
assays. It is no longer sufficient to offer simple examples from serological assays, such as the
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, to guide assay developers in validating the more complex
assays, such as nucleic acid detection tests. In order to bring coherence to the validation process
for all types of assays, this chapter focuses on the criteria that must be fulfilled during assay
development and validation of all assay types. The inclusion of assay development as part of the
assay validation process may seem counterintuitive, but in reality, three of the required validation
criteria (definition of intended purpose[s], optimisation, and standardisation) that must be assessed
in order to achieve a validated assay, comprise steps in the assay development process.
Accordingly the assay development process seamlessly leads into an assay validation pathway,
both of which require fulfilment of validation criteria. Further, more detailed guidance is provided in
a series of OIE Validation Guidelines
2
that are tailored for several fundamentally different types of
assay (e.g. detection of nucleic acids, antibodies, or antigens) and provide more information on
specific issues related to the validation of diagnostic assays. For specific information for wildlife

1 Assay, test method, and test are synonymous terms for purposes of this chapter, and therefore are used
interchangeably.
2 Note to reader: once finalised, these guidelines will be made available on the OIE website.
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
2 OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013
species, refer to guideline: Principles and methods for the validation of diagnostic tests for
infectious diseases applicable to wildlife (once available: see footnote 2). The information provided
in this appendix, which is specific to wildlife species, might also be useful for domestic animal test
validation, for example, where the number or availability of samples is limited.
PRELIMINARY CONSIDERATIONS IN
ASSAY DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION
All laboratories should comply with the requirements of Chapters 1.1.1 (Aquatic Manual) or 1.1.4 (Terrestrial
Manual) on Quality management in veterinary testing laboratories. This will minimise the influence of factors that
do not depend on the test itself such as instrumentation, operator error, reagent choice (both chemical and
biological) and calibration, reaction vessels and platforms, water quality, pH and ionicity of buffers and diluents,
incubation temperatures and durations, and errors in the technical performance of the assay.
The first step in assay development is to define the purpose of the assay, because this guides all subsequent
steps in the validation process. Assay validation criteria are the characterising traits of an assay that represent
decisive factors, measures or standards upon which a judgment or decision may be based. By considering the
variables that affect an assays performance, the criteria that must be addressed in assay validation become
clearer. The variables can be grouped into categories such as: (a) the sample individual or pooled, matrix
composition, and host/organism interactions affecting the target analyte quantitatively or qualitatively; (b) the
assay system physical, chemical, biological and operator-related factors affecting the capacity of the assay to
detect a specific analyte in the sample; and (c) the test result interpretation the capacity of a test result, derived
from the assay system, to predict accurately the status of the individual or population relative to the purpose for
which the assay is applied.
Selection, collection, preparation, preservation and management of samples are critical variables in design and
development of an assay to ensure valid test results. Other variables such as transport, chain of custody, tracking
of samples, and the laboratory information management system are also key sources of variation/error that
become especially important when the assay is implemented for routine testing. Integrity of experimental
outcomes during assay development and validation is only as good as the quality of the samples used.
Anticipating the factors that can negatively impact sample quality must precede launching an assay validation
effort. Reference samples used in assay development and validation should be in the same matrix that is to be
used in the assay (e.g. serum, tissue, whole blood) and representative of the species to be tested by the assay.
The reference materials should appropriately represent the range of analyte concentration to be detected by the
assay. Information on sample collection, preparation, preservation, management, and transport is available in
chapters 1.1.1 and 1.1.2 of the Terrestrial Manual.
The matrix in which the targeted analyte is found (serum, faeces, tissue, etc.) may contain endogenous or
exogenous inhibitors that prevent some assays from working. This is of particular concern for enzyme-dependent
tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Other factors
that affect the concentration and composition of the target analyte (particularly antibody) in the sample may be
mainly attributable to the host and are either inherent (e.g. age, sex, breed, nutritional status, pregnancy,
immunological responsiveness) or acquired (e.g. passively acquired antibody, active immunity elicited by
vaccination or infection). Non-host factors, such as contamination or deterioration of the sample, also potentially
affect the ability of the assay to detect the specific targeted analyte in the sample. It is also important that
biological reagents are free of extraneous agents that might otherwise lead to erroneous results.
THE CRITERIA OF ASSAY DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION
Assay performance is affected by many factors beginning with optimisation of the assay. After initial optimisation
for an intended purpose, characteristics of the performance of the assay will be tested. The assay may need
additional optimisation or may be found to be fit for purpose based on the results of the validation work.
Criteria for Assay Development and Validation
i) Definition of the intended purpose(s)
ii) Optimisation
iii) Standardisation
iv) Repeatability
v) Analytical sensitivity
vi) Analytical specificity
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013 3
vii) Thresholds (cut-offs)
viii) Diagnostic sensitivity
ix) Diagnostic specificity
x) Reproducibility
xi) Fitness for intended purpose(s)
A. ASSAY DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY
1. Definition of the intended purpose(s) for an assay
The OIE Standard for Management and Technical Requirements for Laboratories Conducting Tests for Infectious
Diseases (World Organisation for Animal Health, 2008)
3
states that test methods and related procedures must be
appropriate for specific diagnostic applications in order for the test results to be of relevance. In other words, the
assay must be fit for purpose. The qualitative and quantitative assessment of capacity of a positive or negative
test result to predict accurately the infection or exposure status of the animal or population of animals is the
ultimate consideration of assay validation. This capacity is dependent on development of a carefully optimised
(Section A.2.c), and standardised (Section A.2.e) assay that, through accrual of validation data, provides
confidence in the assays ability to perform according to the intended purpose. In order to ensure that test results
provide useful diagnostic inferences about animals or populations with regard to the intended purpose, the
validation process encompasses initial development and assay performance documentation, as well as on-going
assessment of quality control and quality assurance programmes. Figure 1 shows the assay validation process,
from assay design through the development and validation pathways to implementation, deployment, and
maintenance of the assay
The first step of assay development is selection of an assay type that is appropriate and that likely can be
validated for a particular use (fitness for purpose).
The most common purposes are to:
1) Contribute to the demonstration of freedom from infection in a defined population
(country/zone/compartment/herd) (prevalence apparently zero):
1a) Free with and/or without vaccination,
1b) Re-establishment of freedom after outbreaks
2) Certify freedom from infection or presence of the agent in individual animals or products for trade/movement
purposes.
3) Contribute to the eradication of disease or elimination of infection from defined populations.
4) Confirm diagnosis of suspect or clinical cases (includes confirmation of positive screening test).
5) Estimate prevalence of infection or exposure to facilitate risk analysis (surveys, herd health status, disease
control measures).
6) Determine immune status of individual animals or populations (post-vaccination).
These purposes are broadly inclusive of many narrower and more specific applications of assays (see the OIE
Validation Guidelines (once available: see footnote 2) for each assay type for details). Such specific applications
and their unique purposes need to be clearly defined within the context of a fully validated assay.
Further to the intended purpose, the assay needs to be defined in terms of target animal species, target
pathogen(s) or condition, and sampling matrix.

3 This is a specific interpretation of the more generally stated requirements of the ISO/IEC 17025:2005 international quality
standard for testing laboratories (2005). The OIE Standard further states that in order for a test method to be considered
appropriate, it must be properly validated and that this validation must respect the principles outlined in the validation
chapters of the Terrestrial and Aquatic Manuals.
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
4 OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013
Figure 1. The assay development and validation pathways with assay validation criteria
highlighted in bold typescript within shadowed boxes.
2. Assay development the experimental studies
a) Test method design and proof of concept
Prior knowledge, thought and planning need to go into designing all steps of a new assay destined for
validation, or an existing assay that is being modified. Assistance is offered in the OIE Validation Guidelines
(once available: see footnote 2), which cover best practices for development and validation of assays for
detection of various analytes (e.g. antibody, antigen, and nucleic acid detection).
Development of any assay is dependent on analyte reference samples that reflect the target analyte, the
matrix in which the analyte is found, and the population for which the assay is intended to be used. The
reference samples may be sera, fluids (including meat juices) or tissues that contain the analyte of interest
or a genomic construct consistent with the target analyte. These reference materials are used in
experiments conducted throughout the development process and carried over into the validation of the
assay.
b) Operating range of the assay
The operating range of an assay is the interval of analyte concentrations or titres over which the method
provides suitable accuracy and precision. Accuracy is the closeness of a test value to the expected (true)
Reproducibility
Assay
Validation
Pathway
Replacement of
depleted reagents
Assay
Development
Pathway
Optimisation,
Calibration to Standards
Define evaluation panel
Analytical specificity
Diagnostic specificity
Study Design
Study design
and
protocol
Provisional recognition
Samples from reference animals or
experimental animals (where used)
Candidate test compared with
standard test method
Reagents and controls
Repeatability and
preliminary Reproducibility
STAGE 1
Analytical
characteristics
International recognition (OIE) Deployment to other labs
Daily in-house QC
Proficiency testing
Comparability assessments
Select collaborating labs
Analytical sensitivity
Diagnostic sensitivity
Definition of the
intended purpose of the
assay
Preliminary considerations
STAGE 2
Diagnostic
characteristics
STAGE 3
Reproducibility
STAGE 4
Implementation
Monitoring
and
maintenance
of validation criteria
Cut-off determination
Interpretation of test results
Assay-modifications and
re-validation
Reference standards selected
Monitor precision
and accuracy
Validation
Status
Retention
Assay designated as validated
for the original intended
purpose(s)
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013 5
value (mean or median) for a reference standard reagent of known concentration or titre. Precision
4
is the
degree of dispersion (variance, standard deviation or coefficient of variation) within a series of
measurements of the same sample tested under specified conditions. During development of the assay, the
lower and upper limits of the operating range are determined. To formally determine this range, a high
positive reference sample is selected (ideally, this sample will be the same one from among the three
samples described under Optimisation below). This high positive sample is serially diluted to extinction of
the assays response in an analyte-negative matrix of the same constitution as the sample matrix from
animals in the population targeted by the assay. The results are plotted as a response-curve, with the
response (e.g. Optical Density, Cycle threshold, counts, etc.) a function of analyte concentration (amount).
The curve establishes the working range of the assay. If the range is found to be unacceptable for the
intended purpose, additional optimisation may be needed. The typical calibration curve for most assays is
sigmoidal in shape. The data are transformed to approximate a linear relationship between response and
concentration using a suitable algorithm (Findlay & Dillard, 2007).
c) Standardisation and optimisation
Optimisation is the process by which the most important physical, chemical and biological parameters of an
assay are evaluated and adjusted to ensure that the performance characteristics of the assay are best
suited to the intended application. It is useful to select at least three well-defined reference samples,
representing the analyte ranging from high positive to negative (e.g. high, low positive and negative). These
samples ideally should represent known infected and uninfected animals from the population that will
become the target of the assay. Obtaining such reference samples, however, is not always possible,
particularly for nucleic acid and antigen detection assays. The alternative of preparing reference samples
spiked with cultured agents or positive sera is inferior as these samples do not truly represent the naturally
occurring matrix-agent interaction (see also OIE Validation Guideline 7 [once available: see footnote 2]).
When no other alternative exists, spiking a sample with a known amount of the analyte or agent derived from
culture, or diluting a high positive serum in negative serum of the same species may be all that is available.
In either case, it is imperative that the matrix, into which the analyte is placed or diluted, is identical to, or
resembles as closely as possible the samples that ultimately will be tested in the assay. Ideally, reference
samples have been well characterised by one or preferably at least two alternate methodologies. These
samples can be used in experiments to determine if the assay is able to distinguish between varying
quantities of analyte, distinguish the target from closely related analytes, and for optimising the reagent
concentrations and perfecting the protocol. In principle, for all assay types, it is highly desirable to prepare
and store a sufficient amount of each reference sample in aliquots for use in every run of the candidate
assay as it is evaluated through the entire development and validation process. Switching reference samples
during the validation process introduces an intractable variable that can severely undermine interpretation of
experimental data and, therefore, the integrity of the development and validation process.
The labour-intensive process of optimising an assay is fundamental and critical to achieving a reliable and
predictable assay performance. Scientific judgment and use of best scientific practices, as provided in the
OIE Validation Guidelines (once available: see footnote 2), are recommended to guide optimisation of all
elements of assay development and validation. The approach outlined provides a solid foundation for
development of a reliable assay. Often, prototype assays are developed using reagents and equipment at
hand in the laboratory. However, if the assay is intended for routine diagnostic use in multiple laboratories,
standardisation becomes critical. Every chemical and buffer formulation must be fully described. All reagents
must be defined with respect to purity and grade (including water). Acceptable working ranges must be
established and documented for parameters such as pH, molarity, etc. Standards for quality, purity,
concentration and reactivity of biologicals must be defined. Shelf lives and storage conditions must also be
considered for both chemicals and biologicals. Acceptable ranges for reaction times and temperatures also
need to be established. Essential equipment critical to assay performance must be described in detail,
including operational specifications and calibration. Process (quality) control should be an integral part of
optimisation and considered from the very beginning rather than, as is often the case at the end of assay
development. In addition to the above, downstream aspects such as data capture, data manipulation and
interpretation may also require standardisation and optimisation. Finally, all of these parameters, once
optimised, must be fully described in the test method protocol.
During optimisation of an assay, it is important to take note of procedural steps and assay parameters that
have a narrow range in which the assay performs optimally, as these are the critical points that ultimately
affect an assays reliability (see Section A.2.g). For some assay types, specific steps in the procedure may
have more impact than other steps on the final assay performance (see Section B.5 below and OIE

4 Laboratory sources of variation that affect assay precision include: 1) within a single test run, 2) between concurrent runs,
3a) between assay runs at different times in the same day or on different days under similar conditions, 3b) between
assay runs on different days with different operators, 4) between laboratories. In this chapter, categories 13 are
estimates of repeatability, and category 4 is synonymous with reproducibility.
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
6 OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013
Validation Guideline 6 (once available: see footnote 2) for additional information on establishing
comparability when reagents or processes are changed).
A variety of analyte reference samples and other process controls that are routinely included in any assay
system are identified in the following sections. These provide critical assay monitoring functions that require
special attention during assay optimisation. In addition, attention must be paid to the proper preparation and
storage of all biological reagents and reference materials to ensure stability (see Chapter 1.1.1 of the
Terrestrial Manual).
d) Inhibitory factors in sample matrix
Each different matrix to be used in an assay must be used in the validation process. Some sample matrices
include inhibitory factors that interfere with the performance of specific types of assays. Serum, particularly if
haemolysed, may contain factors toxic to the cells used in viral neutralisation assays, while endogenous
substances found in some tissues and fluids can interfere with or inhibit ligand-binding and enzymatic-based
assays such as ELISAs. Faeces, autolysed tissues and semen samples tend to contain more interfering
substances and are therefore more problematic for assay performance than are serum, blood or fresh
tissues.
e) Robustness
Robustness refers to an assays capacity to remain unaffected by minor variations in test situations that may
occur over the course of testing in a single laboratory. Assessment of robustness should begin during assay
development and optimisation stages. The deliberate variations in method parameters may be addressed in
experiments after optimal conditions for an assay are established. However, when multi-factorial titrations of
reagents are used for optimising the assay, indications of a compromised robustness may surface. If slight
differences in conditions or reagent concentrations cause unacceptable variability, the assay most likely will
not be robust. Early knowledge of this situation elicits a critical decision point for determining whether to
continue with validation of the assay would be worthwhile, because if an assay is not robust within one
laboratory under rather ideal conditions, it is unlikely to be reproducible when transferred to other
laboratories.
The factors most likely to affect assay robustness include pH, temperature batch of reagents or brand of
microtitre plates and aqueous or organic matrix factors (Dejaegher & Vander Heyden, 2006). Once
optimisation is complete, the robustness of the assay becomes part of the assessment of repeatability
f) Calibration of the assay to standard reagents
i) International and national reference standards
Ideally, OIE or other international reference standards, containing a known concentration or titre of
analyte, are the reagents to which all assays are standardised (see OIE Guide 3: International
Reference Antibody Standards for Antibody Assays. In: World Organisation for Animal Health, 2008,
pp. 4552 and also OIE Validation Guideline 7 [once available: see footnote 2]). Such standards are
prepared and distributed by OIE Reference Laboratories or other international reference laboratories.
National reference standards are calibrated by comparison with an international reference standard
whenever possible; they are prepared and distributed by a national reference laboratory. In the
absence of an international reference standard, a national reference standard becomes the standard of
comparison for the candidate assay. These standards are highly characterised through extensive
analysis, and preferably the methods for their characterisation, preparation, and storage have been
published in peer-reviewed publications.
ii) In-house standard
An in-house reference standard generally should be calibrated against an international or national
standard. In the absence of either of these calibrators and to the extent possible, the in-house standard
is highly characterised in the same manner as international and national standards (see OIE Validation
Guideline 7 [once available: see footnote 2]). This local in-house standard therefore becomes the best
available standard, and is retained in sufficient aliquotted volumes for periodic use as the standard to
which working standards are calibrated.
iii) Working standard
One or more working standards, commonly known as analyte or process controls, are calibrated to an
international, national, or in-house standard, and are prepared in large quantities, aliquotted and stored
for routine use in each diagnostic run of the assay.
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013 7
g) Normalising test results to a working standard
Due to the inherent variation in raw test results that are often observed between test runs of the same
assay or among laboratories using the same or similar assays, it is almost impossible to compare directly
(semi-) quantitative data. To improve markedly the comparability of test results both within and between
laboratories, one or more working standard reagent(s) are included in each run of an assay. Raw test
values for each test sample can then be converted to units of activity relative to the working standard(s)
by a process called normalisation. The normalised values may be expressed in many ways, such as a
per cent of a positive control (e.g. in an ELISA), or as the estimated concentration or titre of an analyte
derived from a standard curve. It is good practice to include working standards in all runs of the assay
during assay development and validation because this allows normalisation of data, which provides a
valid means for direct comparison of results between runs of an assay. It is mandatory to control the
(absolute) variation of the normalisation standards as otherwise normalisation can introduce a bias. For
more information, see OIE Validation Guidelines 1 and 3 (once available: see footnote 2).
h) Preliminary study of the repeatability
Assessment of repeatability should begin during assay development and optimisation stages. Early
knowledge of this situation elicits a critical decision point for determining whether it is worthwhile to
continue with validation of the assay.
Repeatability is further verified during Stage 1 of assay validation (Section B.1.a). When the optimised
test is run under routine laboratory or field conditions (Stage 4 of assay validation), repeatability is
continually monitored as part of process control procedures for the duration of the life of the assay (see
Section B.5.a).
B. ASSAY VALIDATION PATHWAY
Validation is a process that determines the fitness of an assay that has been properly developed, optimised and
standardised for an intended purpose(s). Validation includes estimates of the analytical and diagnostic
performance characteristics of a test. In the context of this document, an assay that has completed the first three
stages of the validation pathway (Figure 1), including performance characterisation, can be designated as
validated for the original intended purpose(s).
1. Stage 1 Analytical performance characteristics
Ideally, the design of studies outlined in the following sections should be done with assistance of a statistician and
a disease expert to ensure that the sample size and experimental approach are valid. It is possible to design
experiments that efficiently provide information on likely within- and between-laboratory sources of variation in
assay precision (see footnote 3 under Section A.2.b, above), which will define the performance characteristics of
the assay. The choice of organisms, strains or serotypes to assess analytical sensitivity and specificity should
reflect current knowledge and therefore inform the best possible experimental design for targeting specific
analytes.
a) Repeatability
Repeatability is the level of agreement between results of replicates of a sample both within and between
runs of the same test method in a given laboratory. Repeatability is estimated by evaluating variation in
results of replicates. The number of replicates should preferably be determined in consultation with a
statistician with a suggested minimum of three samples representing analyte activity within the operating
range of the assay. Each of these samples is then aliquoted into the appropriate number of individual
vessels as identical replicates of the original sample containing the original analyte and matrix
concentration (see OIE Validation Guideline 7 [once available: see footnote 2]). Each replicate is then run
through all steps of the assay, including creating the working dilution, as though it were a test sample
derived from the population targeted by the assay. It is not acceptable to prepare a final working dilution
of a sample in a single tube from which diluted aliquots are pipetted into reaction vessels, or to create
replicates from one extraction of nucleic acid rather than to extract each replicate before dilution into the
reaction vessels. Such samples do not constitute valid replicates for repeatability studies. Between-run
variation is determined by using the same samples in multiple runs involving two or more operators, done
on multiple days. The variation in replicate results can be expressed as standard deviations, coefficients
of variation (standard deviation mean of replicates), or other possible options (see OIE Validation
Guideline 4 [once available: see footnote 2] on measurement uncertainty for assessments of repeatability).

Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
8 OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013
b) Analytical specificity
Analytical specificity (ASp) is the ability of the assay to distinguish the target analyte (e,g, antibody, organism
or genomic sequence) from non-target analytes, including matrix components. The assessment is qualitative
and the choice and sources of sample types, organisms and sequences for the ASp evaluation should
reflect test purpose and assay type. See OIE Validation Guidelines 1, 2, and 3 (once available: see footnote
2) for guidance for antibody, antigen and nucleic acid assays, respectively. ASp is documented during Stage
1 validation, and cross-reactions identified. Cross-reactivity (ASp less 100%) may be acceptable depending
on the proposed use of the assay. The impact of cross-reactivity is further documented during Stage 2
(establishment of DSp) and assessed at Stage 4 implementation.
Selecti vity refers to the extent to which a method can accurately quantify the targeted analyte in the
presence of: 1) interferents such as matrix components (e.g. inhibitors of enzymes in the reaction mix);
2) degradants (e.g. toxic factors); 3) non-specific binding of reactants to a solid phase (e.g. conjugate
of an ELISA adsorbed to well of microtiter plate); 4) antibodies to vaccination that may be confused
with antibodies to active infection. Such interferents may cause falsely reduced or elevated responses
in the assay that negatively affect its analytical specificity. Vessman et al. (2001) is a useful overview of
selectivity as defined for analytical chemistry from which a modification described herein was deduced
for application to diagnostic tests.
Exclusi vity is the capacity of the assay to detect an analyte or genomic sequence that is unique to a
targeted organism, and excludes all other other known organisms that are potentially cross-reactive.
This would also define a confirmatory assay.
Inclusivity is the capacity of an assay to detect several strains or serovars of a species, several
species of a genus, or a similar grouping of closely related organisms or antibodies thereto. It
characterises the scope of action for a screening assay.
c) Analytical sensitivity
The limit of detection (LOD) is a measure of the analytical sensitivity (ASe) of an assay. The LOD is the
estimated amount of analyte in a specified matrix that would produce a positive result at least a specified
percent of the time. Typically, estimated LOD will be based on spiking of the analyte into the target matrix.
The choice of analyte(s) (e.g. species, strains) is part of the ASe definition and should be reported properly.
These experiments may be designed for precise and accurate estimation of the probability point (e.g. 50% or
100%), but in some circumstances a conservative estimate of the LOD (e.g. 100%) may be acceptable. For
example, in a titration using tenfold dilutions all replicates at all dilutions might show either 100% or 0%
response. There are two choices at that point. The last dilution showing 100% response may be accepted as
a conservative estimate of the lower limit of detection. A more accurate estimate may be obtained by a
second stage experiment using narrower intervals in the dilution scheme focusing on the region between
100% and 0%. Methods for statistical evaluation of LOD data are in the OIE Validation Guideline 5 (once
available: see footnote 2).
d) Analytical accuracy of adjunct tests or procedures
Some test methods or procedures may be qualified for use as analytical tools in the diagnostic laboratory.
These usually are secondary adjunct tests or procedures that are applied to an analyte that has been
detected in a primary assay. The purpose of such analytical tools is to further characterise the analyte
detected in the primary assay. Examples of such adjunct tests include virus neutralisation to type an isolated
virus, and molecular sequencing.
Such adjunct tests must be validated for analytical performance characteristics (Sections A.2 through B.1.c.,
above). However, they differ from diagnostic tests because they do not require validation for diagnostic
performance characteristics (Sections B.2 through B.4, below) if their results are not used to establish a final
diagnosis with regard to the intended purpose. The analytical accuracy of these tools may be defined by
comparison with a reference reagent standard, or by characteristics inherent in the tool itself (such as
endpoint titration). In all of these examples, the targeted analyte is further characterised quantitatively or
qualitatively by the analytical tool.
2. Stage 2 Diagnostic performance of the assay
Estimates of DSe (proportion of samples from known infected reference animals that test positive in an assay)
and DSp (the proportion of samples from known uninfected reference animals that test negative in an assay) are
the primary performance indicators established during validation of an assay. These estimates are the basis for
calculation of other parameters from which inferences are made about test results (e.g. predictive values of
positive and negative test results). Therefore, it is imperative that estimates of DSe and DSp are as accurate as
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013 9
possible. Ideally, they are derived from testing a panel of samples from reference animals, of known history and
infection status relative to the disease/infection in question and relevant to the country or region in which the test
is to be used. An estimate of the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve is a useful adjunct
to DSe and DSp estimates for a quantitative diagnostic test because it assesses its global accuracy across all
possible assay values (Greiner et al., 2000; Zweig & Campbell, 1993). This approach is described in OIE
Validation Guideline 5 (once available: see footnote 2).
The designated number of known positive and known negative samples will depend on the likely values of DSe
and DSp of the candidate assay and the desired confidence level for the estimates (Table 1 and J acobson, 1998).
Table 1 provides two panels of the theoretical number of samples required, when either a 5% or 2% error is
allowed in the estimates of DSe or DSp. Many samples are required to achieve a high confidence (typically 95%)
in the estimates of DSe and DSp when a small error margin in the estimate is desired. For example comparison of
a 2% vs 5% error for a likely DSe or Dse of 90% and 95% confidence shows a considerable increase (864 vs
138) in the number of samples required. Logistical and financial limitations may require that less than the
statistically required sample size will be evaluated, in which case the confidence interval calculated for DSe and
DSp will indicate less diagnostic confidence in the results. Sample size also may be limited by the fact that
reference populations and OIE reference standards may be lacking (see OIE Validation Guideline 5 [once
available: see footnote 2] for further detail). It may, therefore, be necessary to use a sub-optimal number of
samples initially. It is, however, highly desirable to enhance confidence and reduce error margin in the DSe and
DSp estimates by adding more samples (of equivalent status to the original panel) as they become available.
Table 1. Theoretical number of samples from animals of known infection status required for
establishing diagnostic sensitivity (DSe) and specificity (DSp) estimates depending on likely value of
DSe or DSp and desired error margin and confidence

2% error allowed in estimate of

DSe and DSp
5% error allowed in estimate of
DSe and DSp
Estimated DSe
or DSp
Confidence Confidence
90% 95% 99% 90% 95% 99%
90% 610 864 1493 98 138 239
92% 466 707 1221 75 113 195
94% 382 542 935 61 87 150
95% 372 456 788 60 73 126
96% 260 369 637 42 59 102
97% 197 279 483 32 45 77
98% 133 188 325 21 30 52
99% 67 95 164 11 15 26
The following are examples of reference populations and methodologies that may aid in determining performance
characteristics of the test being validated.
a) Reference animal populations
Ideally, selection of reference animals requires that important host variables in the target population are
represented in animals chosen for being infected with or exposed to the target agent, or that have never
been infected or exposed. The variables to be noted include but are not limited to species, age, sex, breed,
stage of infection, vaccination history, and relevant herd disease history (for further details see OIE
Validation Guideline 7 [once available: see footnote 2]).
i) Negative reference samples
True negative samples, from animals that have had no possible infection or exposure to the agent, may
be difficult to locate. It is often possible to obtain these samples from countries or zones that have
eradicated or have never had the disease in question. Such samples may be useful as long as the
targeted population for the assay is sufficiently similar to the sample-source population.
ii) Positive reference samples
It is generally problematic to find sufficient numbers of true positive reference animals, as determined
by isolation of the pathogen. It may be necessary to resort to samples from animals that have been
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
10 OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013
identified by another test of sufficiently high accuracy, such as a validated nucleic acid detection assay.
The candidate test is applied to these reference samples and results (positive and negative) are cross-
classified in a 2 2 table. This has been called the gold standard model as it assumes the reference
standard is perfect. A sample calculation is shown in Table 2 in section e).
b) Samples from animals of unknown status
When the so-called reference standard is imperfect, which is the rule with any diagnostic tests, estimates of
DSe and DSp for the candidate assay based on this standard will be flawed. A way to overcome this
problem is to perform a latent class analysis of the joint results of the two tests assuming neither test is
perfect.
Latent-class models do not rely on the assumption of a perfect reference test but rather estimate the
accuracy of the candidate test and the reference standard with the joint test results (Branscum et al., 2005;
Ene et al., 2000; Georgiadis et al., 2003; Hui & Walter, 1980). If a Bayesian latent class analysis is used,
prior knowledge about the performance of the reference test and the candidate test can be incorporated into
the analysis.
Because these statistical models are complex and require critical assumptions, statistical assistance should
be sought to help guide the analysis and describe the sampling from the target population(s), the
characteristics of other tests included in the analysis, the appropriate choice of model and the estimation
methods based on peer-reviewed literature (see OIE Validation 5 [once available: see footnote 2] for
details).
c) Experimentally infected or vaccinated reference animals
Samples obtained sequentially from experimentally infected or vaccinated animals are useful for determining
the kinetics of antibody responses or the presence/absence of antigen or organisms in samples from such
animals. However, multiple serially acquired pre- and post-exposure results from individual animals are not
acceptable for establishing estimates of DSe and DSp because the statistical requirement of independent
observations is violated. Single time-point sampling of individual experimental animals can be acceptable
(e.g. one sample randomly chosen from each animal). Nevertheless it should be noted that for indirect
methods of analyte detection, exposure to organisms under experimental conditions, or vaccination, may
elicit antibody responses that are not quantitatively and qualitatively typical of natural infection in the target
population (J acobson, 1998). The strain of organism, dose, and route of administration to experimental
animals are examples of variables that may introduce error when extrapolating DSe and DSp estimates to
the target population. In cases when the near-impossibility of obtaining suitable reference samples from
naturally exposed animals necessitates the use of samples from experimental animals for validation studies,
the resulting DSe and DSp measures should be considered as less than ideal estimates of the true DSp and
DSe.
d) Cut-off (threshold) determination
To obtain DSe and DSp estimates of the candidate assay, which is measured on a continuous scale, the test
results first must be reduced to two (positive or negative) or three (positive, intermediate [doubtful] or
negative) categories of test results. This is accomplished by insertion of one or two cut-off points (threshold
or decision limits) on the scale of test results. The selection of the cut-off(s) should reflect the intended
purpose of the assay and its application, and must support the required DSe and DSp of the assay. Options
and descriptive methods for determining the best way to express DSe and DSp are available (Branscum et
al., 2005; Georgiadis et al., 2003; Greiner et al., 1995; Greiner et al., 2000; J acobson, 1998; Zweig &
Campbell, 1993 and OIE Validation Guideline 5 [once available: see footnote 2] on statistical
considerations). If considerable overlap occurs in the distributions of test values from known infected and
uninfected animals, it is impossible to select a single cut-off that will accurately classify these animals
according to their infection status. Rather than a single cut-off, two cut-offs can be selected that define a
high DSe (e.g. inclusion of 99% of the values from infected animals), and a high DSp (e.g. 99% of the values
from uninfected animals) (Greiner et al., 1995).
The main difficulty in establishing cut-offs based on diagnostic performance characteristics is the lack of
availability of the required number of well-characterised samples. Alternatives are discussed in Section
B.1.g. on provisional acceptance of an assay during accrual of data to enhance estimates of DSe and DSp.
e) Calculation of DSe and DSp based on test results of reference samples
A typical method for determining DSe and DSp estimates is to test the reference samples in the new assay,
and cross tabulate the categorical test results in a 2 2 table. In a hypothetical example, assume the test
developer has selected a sample size for DSe and DSp for the new assay under the assumption that the
most likely values are 97% (DSe) and 99% (DSp), respectively, with a desired confidence of 95% for both
estimates. The desired error margin in the estimates was set at 2%. Table 1 indicates that 279 samples from
known infected animals are required for the DSe assessment, and 95 known negative samples are needed
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013 11
for establishing the DSp estimate. The samples were then run in the new assay. Table 2 is a hypothetical set
of results from which DSe and DSp estimates have been obtained.
Table 2. Diagnostic sensitivity and specificity estimates calculated from hypothetical set of results for samples
tested from known infected and non-infected populations

Number of reference samples required*

Known positive (279) Known negative (95)
Test
results
Positive 270

7
TP FP
Negative 9
FN TN
88

Diagnostic sensitivity* Diagnostic specificity*
TP/(TP +FN) TN/(TN +FP)
96.8% (94.0 98.5%)** 92.6% (85.4 97.0%)**
*Based on Table 1 for an assay with the following parameters:
1) Prior to testing, estimated DSe of 97% and DSp of 99%
2) 95% =required confidence in DSe and DSp estimates
3) 2% =Error margin in the estimates of DSe and DSp
TP and FP =True Positive & False Positive, respectively
TN and FN =True Negative and False Negative, respectively
** 95% exact binomial confidence limits for DSe and DSp calculated values
(see OIE Validation Guideline 5 [once available: see footnote 2] for information
on confidence limits)
In this example, the DSe estimate is as anticipated, but the DSp is much lower (92%) than the anticipated
value of 99%. As a consequence, the width of the confidence interval for DSp is greater than expected. Re-
inspection of Table 1 indicates that 707 samples are necessary to achieve an error margin of 2% at a DSP
of 92% but such an increase in sample size might not be feasible (see OIE Validation Guideline 5 [once
available: see footnote 2] for further details).
f) Provisional assay recognition
5

There are situations where it is not possible or desirable to fulfil Stage 2 of the Validation Pathway because
appropriate samples from the target population are scarce and animals are difficult to access (such as for
transboundary infectious diseases or wildlife diseases).
Experience has shown that the greatest obstacle for continuing through Stage 2 of the Validation Pathway is
the number of defined samples required to calculate DSe and DSp. The formula is well known and tables
are available for determining the number of samples required to estimate various levels of DSe and DSp,
depending on the desired error margin and the level of confidence in the estimates (Table 1 and J acobson,
1998). The formula assumes that the myriad of host/organism factors that may affect the test outcome are
all accounted for. Since that assumption may be questionable, the estimated sample sizes are at best
minimal. For a disease that is not endemic or widespread, it may be impossible, initially, to obtain the
number of samples required, but over time, accrual of additional data will allow adjustment of the cut-off
(threshold) or if no adjustment is needed, enhance confidence in the estimates.
Provisional recognition defines an assay that has been assessed through Stage 1 for critical assay
benchmark parameters (ASe, ASp and repeatability) with, in addition, a preliminary estimate of DSp and
DSe based on a small select panel of well-characterised samples containing the targeted analyte and a
preliminary estimate of reproducibility. This represents partial completion of Stage 2. Preliminary
reproducibility estimates of the candidate assay could be done using the select panel of well-characterised
samples to enhance provisional acceptance status for the assay. The candidate test method is then

5 Provisional recognition does not imply acceptance by the OIE. It does, however, recognise an informed decision of
authorities at local, state, national or international levels of their conditional approval of a partially validated assay.
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
12 OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013
duplicated in laboratories in at least two different institutes, and the panel of samples is evaluated using the
candidate assay in each of these laboratories, using the same protocol, same reagents as specified in the
protocol, and comparable equipment. This is a scaled-down version of the reproducibility study in Stage 3 of
assay validation. In following this procedure of provisional recognition the test protocol must not be varied.
Provisional recognition of an assay by state or national authorities means that the assay has not been
evaluated for diagnostic performance characteristics. As such, the laboratory should develop and follow a
protocol for adding and evaluating samples, as they become available, to fulfil this requirement. Ideally, this
process should be limited to a specific timeframe in which such an accrual would be directed toward fulfilling
Stages 2 and 3 of the validation pathway, and to particular situations (emergencies, minor species, no other
test available, etc.)
3. Stage 3 Reproducibility and augmented repeatability estimates
a) Reproducibility
Reproducibility is the ability of a test method to provide consistent results, as determined by estimates of
precision, when applied to aliquots of the same samples tested in different laboratories, preferably located in
distinct or different regions or countries using the identical assay (protocol, reagents and controls). To assess the
reproducibility of an assay, each of at least three laboratories should test the same panel of samples (blinded)
containing a suggested minimum of 20 samples, with identical aliquots going to each laboratory (see OIE
Validation Guideline 7 [once available: see footnote 2]). This exercise also generates preliminary data on non-
random effects attributable to deployment of the assay to other laboratories. In addition, within-laboratory
repeatability estimates are augmented by the replicates used in the reproducibility studies. Measurements of
precision can be estimated for both the reproducibility and repeatability data (see OIE Validation Guideline 4
[once available: see footnote 2] for further explanation of the topic and its application).
For field tests, reproducibility should be evaluated under the conditions of intended use.
b) Designation of a validated assay
On completion of Stage 3 validation, assuming the earlier stages have been fully and satisfactorily completed, the
assay may be designated as validated for the original intended purpose. Retention of this designation is
dependent on continual monitoring of the assay performance, as described in Section 5(a).
4. Stage 4 Programme implementation
The successful deployment of an assay provides additional and valuable evidence for its performance according
to the expectations. Moreover, the (true) prevalence of the diagnostic trait in the target population is an important
factor that needs to be accounted for as described below.
a) Fitness for use
While this chapter deals with validation and fitness for purpose from a scientific perspective, it should also be
noted that other practical factors might impact the utility of an assay with respect to its intended application.
These factors include not only the diagnostic suitability of the assay, but also its acceptability by scientific
and regulatory communities, acceptability to the client, and feasibility given available laboratory resources.
For some diseases, multiple assays might be available for use in combination in disease control and
surveillance programs and hence, an assays utility might need to be assessed by evaluating incremental
changes in DSe, DSp and predictive values of the combined tests.
An inability to meet operational requirements of an assay also may make it unfit for its intended use. Such
requirements may include performance costs, equipment availability, level of technical sophistication and
interpretation skills, kit/reagent availability, shelf life, transport requirements, safety, biosecurity, sample
throughput, turn-around times for test results, aspects of quality control and quality assurance, and whether
the assay can practically be deployed to other laboratories. Test kits used in the field are highly desirable
from an ease-of-use viewpoint, but because they are performed outside the confines of a controlled
laboratory environment, they require added precautions to maintain fitness for purpose (Crowther et al.,
2006).
b) Interpretation of test results
Predictive values of test results: The positive predictive value (PPV) is the probability that an animal that has
tested positive is in fact positive with regard to the true diagnostic status. The negative predictive value
(NPV) is the probability that an animal that has tested negative is in fact negative with regard to the true
diagnostic status.
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013 13
Predictive values of test results are an application of Bayes' theorem and are calculated as follows:
PPV =
P DSe
P DSe +(1 - P) (1-DSp )

and
NPV =
(1 - P) DSp
P (1 - DSe) +(1 - P) DSp

Where:
PPV =Predictive value of a positive test result
NPV

=Predictive value of a negative test result
P =Prevalence of infection
DSe =Diagnostic sensitivity
DSp =Diagnostic specificity
In contrast to DSe and DSp, predictive values are influenced by the true prevalence of the true diagnostic
status of the target population. In other words, predictive values are not inherent characteristics of a specific
diagnostic test, but are a function of its DSe and DSp and the local prevalence of infection in a defined
population at a given point in time.
Predictive values are of great importance to field veterinarians for the interpretation of results. For example,
a PPV of 0.9 means that an animal reacting positive to the test has 90% chance of being indeed infected
and 10% probability of being a false positive.
The predictive value of a positive result also has great importance for the veterinary services in charge of the
management of control or eradication programs. If we consider the inverse of the PPV (i.e. 1/PPV) it gives
the information on how much money is spent in the culling of true and false positives for each true positive
animal detected by the surveillance activity. In other words, if the PPV V is 0.67, it means that two positive
animals out of three are true positives and the remaining is a false positive. Since during the application of a
control program, the prevalence of infection is continually changing, the monitoring of the PPV is a way of
evaluating the costs of the program.
Furthermore, during the application of a control program it is usually advisable to change the sensitivity of
the tests employed, based on the variation of prevalence of infection in the target population and on the
objective of the program, the PPV may be used to make the changes in DSe and DSp based on economic
considerations. In other words, when the need for a change in DSe and DSp of the test arises, a number of
putative cut-offs may be set along the ROC curve of the test validation and the relevant values of DSe and
DSp for each cut-off may be used to evaluate the expected cost for the culling of each infected animal.
If the purpose is establishing evidence for freedom from disease, the NPV is the more important measure.
The NPV critically depends on DSe.
c) International recognition
Traditionally, assays have been recognised internationally by the OIE when they are designated as
prescribed or alternate tests for trade purposes. This has often been based on evidence of their usefulness
on a national, regional or international basis. For commercial diagnostic kits that have gone through the OIE
procedure for validation and certification of diagnostic assays, the final step is listing of the test in the OIE
Register. Tests listed in the Register are certified as fit for a specific purpose if they have completed
Validation Stages 1, 2 and 3. The Register is intended to provide potential kit users with an informed and
unbiased source of information about the kit and its performance characteristics for an intended purpose.
The Register is available on the OIE website at: http://www.oie.int/en/our-scientific-expertise/certification-of-
diagnostic-tests/the-register-of-diagnostic-tests/.
d) Deployment of the assay
Ultimate evidence of the usefulness of an assay is its successful application(s) in other laboratories and
inclusion in national, regional and/or international control or surveillance programmes. Reference
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
14 OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013
laboratories play a critical role in this process. In the natural progression of diagnostic and/or technological
improvements, new assays will become the new standard method to which other assays will be compared.
As such, they may progressively achieve national, regional and international recognition. As a recognised
standard, these assays will also be used to develop reference reagents for quality control, proficiency and
harmonisation purposes. These reference reagents may also become international standards.
An assessment of the reproducibility should be repeated when the test is transferred from the development
laboratory to the field, whether for use in local laboratories or in field applications. Predictable changes, e.g.
extremes of temperature and levels of operator experience, should be assessed as additional sources of
variation in assay results that may affect estimates of reproducibility.
5. Monitoring assay performance after initial validation
a) Monitoring the assay
To retain the status of a validated assay it is necessary to assure that the assay as originally validated
consistently maintains the performance characteristics as defined during validation of the assay (see Section
6 below). This can be determined in a quality assurance programme characterised by carefully monitoring
the assays daily performance, primarily through precision and accuracy estimates for internal controls, as
well as outlier tendencies. The performance can be monitored graphically by plotting measurements from
assay controls in control charts
6
. Deviations from the expected performance should be investigated so
corrective action can be taken if necessary. Such monitoring provides critical evidence that the assay retains
its validated designation during the implementation phase of the assay. Reproducibility is assessed
through external quality control programmes such as proficiency testing. Should the assay cease to produce
results consistent with the original validation data, the assay would be rendered unfit for its intended
purpose. Thus, a validated assay must be continuously assessed to assure it maintains its fitness for
purpose.
To retain the status of a validated assay, however, it is necessary to assure that the assay as originally
validated consistently maintains the performance characteristics as defined during validation of the assay
(see Section 5 below). This can be determined in a quality assurance program characterised by carefully
monitoring the assays daily performance, primarily through precision and accuracy estimates for internal
controls, and by scheduled external proficiency testing. Should the assay cease to produce results
consistent with the original validation data, the assay would be rendered unfit for its intended purpose. Thus,
a validated assay must be continuously assessed to assure it maintains its fitness for purpose.
b) Modifications and enhancements considerations for changes in the assay
Over time, modifications of the assay likely will be necessary to address changes in the intended purpose,
analytes targeted (i.e. modification of the assay to adjust diagnostic performance) or technical modifications
to improve assay efficiency or cost-effectiveness. For a change in intended purpose of the assay, then a
revised validation from Stage 2 onwards is obligatory.
If the assay is to be applied in another geographical region and/or population, revalidation of the assay
under the new conditions is recommended. Lineages or sub-lineages of an infectious agent, derived from
animals in different geographic locations, are known to vary requiring revalidation of the assay for the
specified target population. This is especially true for nucleic acid detection (NAD) systems as it is very
common for point mutations to occur in many infectious agents (especially RNA viruses). Mutations, which
may occur within the primer or probe sites can affect the efficiency of the assay and even invalidate the
established performance characteristics. It is also advisable to regularly confirm the target sequence at the
selected genomic regions for national or regional isolates of the infectious agents. This is especially true for
the primer and probe sites, to ensure that they remain stable and the DSe and DSp for the assay are not
compromised. Similar issues can arise with immunologically based assays for antigen or antibody.
A similar situation may occur with emergence of new subtypes of existing pathogens. In these
circumstances, existing assays may need to be modified.
i) Technical modifications and comparability assessments
Technical modifications to a validated assay such as changes in instrumentation, extraction protocols,
and conversion of an assay to a semi-automated or fully automated system using robotics will typically
not necessitate full revalidation of the assay. Rather, a methods comparison study is done to determine
if the relatively minor modification to the assay affected the previously documented performance
characteristics of the assay. Comparability can be established by running the modified procedure and

6 Control chart: A graphical representation of data from the repetitive measurement of a control sample(s) tested in different
runs of the assay over time.
Chapter 1.1.5. Principles and methods of validation of diagnostic assays for infectious diseases
OIE Terrestrial Manual 2013 15
original procedure side-by-side, with the same panel of samples in both, over several runs. The panel
chosen for this comparison should represent the entire operating range of both assays. If the results
from the modified procedure and originally validated method are determined to be comparable in an
experiment based on a pre-specified criterion, the modified assay remains valid for its intended
purpose. See Guideline 6 (once available: see footnote 2) for description of experiments that are
appropriate for comparability testing and OIE Validation Guideline 7 (once available) on reference
sample panels.
ii) Biological modifications and comparability assessments
There may be situations where changes to some of the biologicals used in the assay may be
necessary and/or warranted. This may include changes to the test specimen itself (e.g. a change in
tissue to be tested or perhaps testing of a different species altogether). It may include changes to
reagents (e.g. the substitution of a recombinant antigen for a cell culture derived antigen or one
antibody conjugate for another of similar immunological specificity in an ELISA). The difficulty in
making any modification lies in determining whether the change requires a complete revalidation of the
assay at both bench and field levels. At the very least, any modification requires that the appropriate
Stage 1 analytical requisites be assessed. The more difficult decision relates to Stage 2 diagnostic
performance. To assist here, the original (reference) assay should initially be compared to the modified
(candidate) assay in a controlled trial using a defined panel of positive and negative diagnostic
samples. See OIE Validation Guideline 6 (once available: see footnote 2) for a description of
comparability assessment. If the comparability assessment does not suggest a change in diagnostic
performance, the modified assay may be phased into routine use. If, on the other hand, differences in
DSp and DSe are observed, the modified assay would require additional Stage 2 or field validation
before being adopted.
iii) Replacement of depleted reagents
When a reagent such as a control sample or working standard is nearing depletion, it is essential to
prepare and repeatedly test a replacement before such a control is depleted. The prospective control
sample should be included in multiple runs of the assay in parallel with the original control to establish
their proportional relationship. It is important to change only one reagent at a time to avoid the
compound problem of evaluating more than one variable.
c) Enhancing confidence in validation criteria
Because many host variables have an impact on the diagnostic performance of assays, it is highly desirable
over time to increase the number of reference samples or samples suitable for latent class analysis. The
sampling design, collection, transportation, and testing environment for the new samples should be the
same as used for the original validation study. Increases in sample numbers improves the precision of the
overall estimates of DSe and DSp, and may allow calculations of DSe estimates by factors such as age,
stage of disease, and load of organisms. New data should be included annually in relevant test dossiers.
d) Verification of existing assays (in-house validation)
If a laboratory is considering the use of a validated commercial kit or a candidate assay based on published
literature with validation data, some form of verification will be required to determine whether the assay
complies with either the kit manufacturers or the authors assertions, with respect to Stage 1 validation
criteria, in the context of the intended application. This may require a limited verification of both ASp and
ASe using available reference materials, whether they be external and/or locally acquired from the target
population. Once the laboratory is confident that the assay is performing as described from an analytical
perspective, then proceeding to a limited Stage 2 validation should be considered in the context of the
intended application and target population before the assay is put into routine diagnostic use.
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