Volume-independent diagnostic test carrier and methods in which it is used to determine an analyte

A diagnostic test carrier for the determination of an analyte in a liquid sample, comprising

• a supporting layer;
• at least one detection layer which contains reagents to determine an analyte in a liquid sample, and which detection layer is located on the supporting layer;
• a network which covers the at least one detection layer and is larger than the at least one detection layer such that the network extends beyond each detection layer to the supporting layer, to which supporting layer the network is attached, wherein the network is hydrophilic but essentially not capillary active;
• and
• a cover located over areas of the network which extend beyond each detection layer to define at least one sample application site which is not covered by the cover in the region of the network that covers the at least one detection layer;
• wherein the network defines a capillary gap between the cover and the detection layer, and between the cover and the supporting layer, for the removal of excess liquid;
• and
• wherein the detection layer comprises a transparent foil having a bottom foil side defining the detection side of the detection layer, and a top non-foil side, wherein a first film layer is applied to the top non-foil side and a second film layer is applied thereon, wherein the first film layer while in a wet state scatters light less than the second film layer scatters light.