Integrating different data types from disparate sources represents a challenge and an opportunity to add value in the management of laboratory information. Laboratory analyses may generate multiple data types that may reside in separate systems, and integrating data into a report often requires laborious, error-prone methods. Kidney stone analysis is an example of such a situation.
Nephrolithiasis is a common affliction with a high rate of recurrence.
The results of laboratory stone analysis guide appropriate medical therapy to prevent recurrence. In addition to analyzing the biochemical composition of stones, the laboratory documents their number, size, color, and weight. Photographs of stones are an effective way to document gross features. The KISS then generates an infrared absorption spectrum graph from the quantitative data file and combines the graph with the patient record and stone image to produce a concise report for referring clinicians. The database management environment facilitates archiving, retrieval, reprint, and query capabilities.