Endocrine Abstracts

Clinical biochemistry is a branch of laboratory medicine in which chemical and biochemical methods are used to detect changes in the composition of body fluids (e.g. blood) as a result of disease. The results of biochemical tests may be of use in screening for disease, diagnosis, monitoring treatment and assessing prognosis. This presentation will focus on the role of the clinical biochemist, who works as part of a team including chemical pathologists and biomedical scientists, in providing a hospital biochemistry service.

Biochemistry provides high quality analytical results on patient samples. Many departments (e.g. A&E) are dependent on a rapid service measuring kidney function or testing for heart disease for example. Tests required in large numbers are analysed on automated equipment. Many specialist analyses are performed manually requiring scientists with technical expertise. The biochemist has a major role in service provision including liaison with clinical staff – advising on relevant analyses and interpreting results, development of new techniques, audit, teaching and research.

There is a structured career pathway within the NHS. Many entrants to the profession will already have obtained a PhD. Approved training programmes are available in the UK and often include completion of an MSc in clinical biochemistry. After gaining wide experience, trainees can apply to become health professionals council (HPC) registered. Registered scientist posts generally involve developing an area of expertise in paediatric biochemistry, toxicology or endocrinology for example. Most biochemists obtain higher professional qualifications such as FRCPath. More senior positions often involve taking charge of specialist sections in the department.

The work of a biochemist is interesting, varied and rewarding. It is a career suited to anyone with an interest in science and medicine and provides a unique opportunity to combine practical skills, clinical liaison, management and research.