Emerging technology: a definition for laboratory medicine.

The term "emerging technology" (ET) is used extensively, and there are numerous definitions offered, but to our knowledge, none specifically encompass the field of laboratory medicine. An ET definition that incorporates the overarching IFCC aim of "Advancing excellence in laboratory medicine to support healthcare worldwide" would clarify discussions. We discuss key aspects of the term "emerging technology(ies)" as it applies to laboratory medicine with a view to laying the foundations for a practical definition for the profession and propose the definition of an ET as " An analytical method or device that by virtue of its stage of development, translation into broad routine clinical practice, or geographical adoption and implementation has the potential to add value to clinical diagnostics ".