Results of the 2023 external quality control exercise of the Latin American Society of Forensic Genetics

Abstract

Introduction: Since 2003, the Latin American Society of Forensic Genetics has organized collaborative interlaboratory comparison exercises in order to support the strengthening of Forensic Genetics laboratories in Latin America, with the SLAGF quality exercise being the only one that includes bone samples. Objective: Present the results of the analysis of the SLAGF quality exercise corresponding to the year 2023. Methodology: A practical exercise was designed with five samples: two buccal swabs (M1 and M2), a blood sample in FTA (M3), a 1:1 blood-blood mixture in FTA (M4) and a bone rest (M5). A theoretical exercise with five cases was sent to the laboratories; two of which were optional. As well as five theoretical exercises for the participating independent experts. For the first time, an optional IVD exercise was included; the theoretical exercises are available at: http://slagf.org/resultados-control-slagf-2023/x. Results: 30 laboratories and 12 independent experts participated. In the practical exercise, the cadaveric sample of bone remains presented the greatest challenges, in the theoretical part it was the IVD exercise. Conclusion: The challenges faced by Latin American Forensic Genetics laboratories, reflected in the SLAGF 2023 quality exercise, are similar to those encountered by other groups that carry out quality control exercises in Forensic Genetics.