Index case^comparison case

Dear Daniel and others,

We are unsure how to interpret the system ‘Index case^comparison case’, used in the LOINC-concept 54096-3. The ^ usually denotes a source, e.g. Urine^Patient = urine from patient. But surely the comparison case is not the source of the index case?

If the intended meaning is ‘a sample from the index case compared to a sample from a comparison case’ then we suggest changing the notation to ‘^Index case/^comparison case’. Is that the right interpretation? Where can I request such a change?

Best wishes,

Feikje Hielkema-Raadsveld, Nictiz (NRC Netherlands)