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Updated: Aug 12, 2026

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Measuring Deformability and Red Cell Heterogeneity in Blood by Ektacytometry
Published on: January 12, 2018
[Development of blood cell measurement]
Summary
Automated blood cell analyzers have evolved significantly since the 1960s, enabling simultaneous measurement of multiple parameters. Future advancements require integrating new technologies like Information Technology (IT) to meet evolving healthcare demands.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Medical Laboratory Science
- Biomedical Engineering
Context:
- The evolution of automated blood cell analyzers in hematology laboratories.
- Early analyzers (1950s-1960s) were limited to counting red and white blood cells.
- Technicon Corporation's 1965 instrument marked a milestone with simultaneous measurement of blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit.
Purpose:
- To trace the historical development and advancements in automated blood cell analysis.
- To highlight key innovations, including simultaneous platelet measurement and precise cell distribution determination.
- To identify future directions for blood cell analyzers, emphasizing the need for new concepts and technologies.
Summary:
- Automated blood cell analyzers have progressed from basic cell counting to comprehensive analysis, including hemoglobin and hematocrit.
- Developments in reagents enabled three-part white blood cell differentials, largely replacing manual microscopic analysis in screening.
- Current analyzers offer increased parameters and throughput, but future improvements necessitate novel technological integration.
Impact:
- Revolutionized hematology laboratory efficiency and diagnostic capabilities.
- Reduced reliance on manual microscopic differentials for screening tests.
- The integration of Information Technology (IT) is crucial for future analyzer development to meet societal needs.

