Comparing a compact hematology analyzer based on direct optical measurements using blue LED with the VCS reference technology for neutrophil differential count

摘要

Technologies for the automated blood cell count have been evolving over the last decades. Hematology analyzers enable identifying blood elements, including leukocytes differential. In the bloodstream, the most abundant leukocyte, the neutrophil, presents multi-lobed nuclei, requiring, therefore, combined measurement principles for their detection and classification. Due to the lack of white blood cells' certified reference materials or reference measurement method, it has been customary to evaluate the performance of new hematology analyzers by comparing them with traditionally available and well-consolidated systems. In 2015, a technology based on axial light loss using a blue LED, the Beckman Coulter DxH500, was launched. This hematology analyzer presents reduced cost, fewer chemical reagents, and a compact design. This work compares the performance of the DxH500 with an analyzer frequently employed in large-scale laboratory routine, the Beckman Coulter LH750, based on the well-established combination of volume (impedance), conductivity and light scatter principles. The study examined 310 paired samples taken out randomly from the routine of a general hospital laboratory. The analyses evaluated the correlation coefficient, p-value, and the linear regression equation. The equivalence of results provided by both analyzers for the characterization of neutrophils in the leukocyte population points to the performance adequacy of the new low-cost and portable technology, suitable for small-sized clinical laboratory's routines.