title: White blood cell counts: reference methodology.
abstract: Modern hematology laboratories use automated hematology analyzers to perform cell counts. These instruments provide accurate, precise, low-cost differential counts with fast turnaround times. Technologies commonly used include electrical impedance, radiofrequency conductivity, laser light scattering, and cytochemistry. This article reviews the principles of these methodologies and possible sources of error, provides guidance for selecting flagging criteria, and discusses novel, clinically relevant white blood cell parameters provided by new instruments, including immature granulocyte count and granularity index.
authors: Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico, MSC08 4640, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA. Electronic address: Dchabot-richards@salud.unm.edu.
authors: Devon S
authors: DS
authors: Chabot-Richards
authors: Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico, MSC08 4640, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
authors: Tracy I
authors: TI
authors: George
mesh_terms: D001331:Automation; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049674:History, 21st Century; D007958:Leukocyte Count / Q000266:history / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends
keywords: Automated hematology analyzer; Differential count; Laboratory instrumentation; Leukocyte; Methodology; White blood cell count