Bruno et al. 2026, Validity and reliability of portable blood lactate analysers systematic review

A systematic review of 25 studies using COSMIN and GRADE methodology found that portable blood lactate analysers (Lactate Pro, Lactate Scout, Accutrend, Lactate Plus, and others) show strong correlation with laboratory reference standards (r = 0.95–0.99, ICC > 0.90, CV < 5%), but document systematic bias at higher lactate concentrations across most devices. Device performance varies meaningfully with sampling site (earlobe versus fingertip), post-exercise timing, environmental conditions, and user technique, and evidence gaps remain for female and youth populations. Moderate evidence.