This document specifies requirements and gives recommendations on the handling, storage, CTC enrichment and isolation, RNA isolation and storage, and documentation of venous whole blood specimens intended for the examination of RNA isolated from circulating tumour cells (CTCs) during the pre-examination phase before a molecular examination is performed.

This document is applicable to molecular in vitro diagnostic examinations including laboratory-developed tests performed by medical laboratories. It is also intended to be used by laboratory customers, in vitro diagnostics developers and manufacturers, biobanks, institutions, and commercial organizations performing biomedical research, and regulatory authorities.

This document does not cover the isolation of cellular RNA directly from venous whole blood containing CTCs. This is covered in ISO 20186-1.

This document does not cover the isolation of specific white blood cells and subsequent isolation of cellular RNA therefrom. This document does not cover pre-analytical workflow requirements for viable CTC cryopreservation and culturing.

NOTE 1        The requirements given in this document can also be applied to other circulating rare cells (e.g. foetal cells).

NOTE 2        International, national or regional regulations or requirements can also apply to specific topics covered in this document.