Hematology

The study of blood disorders and other diseases is a maintain of diagnostic laboratories today. Disorders such as blood cancer, hemorrhagic conditions, infections and anemia affect patients around the globe. Automated hematology analyzers rely on a variety of testing methods to characterize patient blood samples to identify abnormalities. These results are typically reported as a complete blood count (CBC) and differential cell counting. Analyzers have evolved from simple electrical impedance measurements to full flow cytometers using impedance, spectrochemistry and even imaging. Some instruments will even create slide smears with samples that require further assessment of an abnormality.

These analyzers automate multiple different test types simultaneously at high throughput. This leads to complexity and multiple fluidic paths to ensure consistent results with each run. Many manufacturers have turned to the use of fluidic assemblies that have been simplified with integrated manifolds, sheer valves and pumps to accurately and quickly carry out these routine tests.