Hemoglobin Levels Estimation using Aspen Hb Meter

Abstract

Hemoglobin (Hb) is an iron-containing metalloprotein present in red blood cells that carries and transports oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. Hb is an essential clinical parameter to evaluate since its insufficiency is recognised to be the major cause of anaemia. In general, the Hb measuring procedure necessitates a complex and costly laboratory setup staffed by highly experienced specialists. In underdeveloped nations, especially in rural and distant places, such a complex setup and knowledge is difficult to construct. As a result, a quick and portable Hb diagnostic test is urgently needed to improve test accessibility in these places, with the added benefit of offering point-of-care diagnostic tests (POCT) at the patient's door and in the field for mass screening at lower costs. Aspen Hb meter, developed by Aspen Laboratories Pvt. Ltd and available on the market, is one such instrument. Aspen Hb meter has 94 % accuracy, 93.3 % sensitivity and 94.8% specificity when compared to an automated haematology analyzer (Serachem SC-60+). As a result, the Aspen Hb meter was shown to be an acceptable POCT device for Hb monitoring in clinical and field settings.