Modern hematology analyzers: beyond the simple blood cells count (with focus on the red blood cells)

Abstract

The complete blood counts (CBCs) and the differential leukocyte count are among the most requested laboratory tests. These tests are frequently requested and are performed quickly using highly automated laboratory system. The modern hematological analyzers are easy to use and can process several blood samples in a short period of time (e.g., 120 samples/h). Usually, these analyzers are used for carrying out the cell count and the differential leukocyte analysis. However, when the instrument flags an important outlier value, the morphological study with optical microscopy is carried out. These hematological instruments have evolved ensuring high data output, excellent reliability, and accuracy. These great progresses have allowed automation of the haematology laboratory. Interestingly, the availability of new parameters can now also allow a better characterization of the different blood cells. This available additional information can facilitate clinicians to achieve a correct differential diagnosis. For example, erythrocytes abnormalities and defects are frequently found in clinical laboratory medicine and better knowledge of the potential of these automated instruments is therefore important. Aim of this paper is to highlight some important examples of this type of available diagnostic information that the modern automated haematological analyzer can easily provide with focus on the red blood cells.