A hematology analyzer is a medical instrument used to perform automated complete blood count (CBC) tests, which provide information about the different types of cells in a person’s blood, such as the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The analyzer uses a small sample of blood, typically drawn from a fingerstick or a venous blood draw, and performs a series of tests to determine the number and characteristics of the different types of cells present in the sample. These tests can help to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions, including anemia, infections, and blood disorders.

History of Hematology Analyzer

The first automated hematology analyzer was developed in the late 1950s by a team of researchers at the University of California, Berkeley. Prior to this, hematology tests were performed manually, which was time-consuming and prone to error. The first automated analyzers were relatively simple devices that used photometers to measure the absorption of light by different types of blood cells.

Over the years, hematology analyzers have become increasingly sophisticated, with newer models incorporating more advanced technologies such as flow cytometry and laser scattering. Today, hematology analyzers are widely used in hospitals, clinics, and laboratories around the world to help diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions.

Hematology Analyzer Working Principle

There are many different types of hematologyanalyzers on the market, but most work on the same basic principle: they use a small sample of blood to perform a series of tests that provide information about the different types of cells present in the sample.

To perform a complete blood count (CBC) test, the analyzer typically uses a method called impedance, also known as “resistive pulse sensing.” This involves passing the blood sample through a tiny aperture and measuring the resistance, or impedance, of the cells as they pass through. The analyzer can then use this information to calculate the number of different types of cells present in the sample, as well as other characteristics such as their size and shape.

Other methods that may be used by hematologyanalyzers include laser scattering, which measures the light scattered by cells as they pass through a laser beam, and flow cytometry, which uses lasers to measure the size, shape, and other characteristics of individual cells.

How to operate a Hematology Analyzer

Operating a hematology analyzer typically involves the following steps:

1. Perform quality control checks: Before running any samples, it is important to perform quality control checks to ensure that the analyzer is working properly. This may involve running a series of control samples and comparing the results to known values.
2. Prepare the sample: Depending on the type of analyzer and the method being used, this may involve diluting the sample, adding chemicals to the sample, or performing some other preparatory step.
3. Load the sample: Once the sample is prepared, it is typically loaded into the analyzer using a pipette or some other automated method.
4. Run the test: The analyzer will then perform the necessary tests on the sample and provide a report with the results.
5. Review the results: The results of the test should be carefully reviewed to ensure that they are accurate and to identify any potential issues.
6. Dispose of the sample: Once the test is complete, the sample should be disposed of properly to prevent contamination.

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines when operating a hematology analyzer to ensure accurate and reliable results. Visit more.