Reference intervals for whole blood viscosity using the analytical performance-evaluated scanning capillary tube...

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Biophysics

Background:

• Whole blood viscosity (WBV) is a critical hemorheological parameter.
• Accurate reference intervals are essential for clinical interpretation and management of blood viscosity disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish reference intervals for whole blood viscosity (WBV) in healthy adults.
• To validate the analytical performance of the scanning capillary tube viscometer (SCTV) for WBV measurement.

Main Methods:

• Analytical performance of the SCTV was assessed using quality control materials and human blood samples.
• Reference intervals were determined for 297 healthy individuals (123 men, 174 women).
• WBV measurements were taken at shear rates of 300s⁻¹ and 1s⁻¹.

Main Results:

• The SCTV demonstrated acceptable precision, with coefficients of variation below 5.0% for within-day QC and 8.0% for between-day QC.
• A strong correlation was observed between the SCTV and a Brookfield viscometer (R²=0.972, p<0.001).
• Reference intervals for WBV were established: Men (3.66-5.41 cP at 300s⁻¹, 23.15-36.45 cP at 1s⁻¹); Women (3.27-4.32 cP at 300s⁻¹, 18.20-27.36 cP at 1s⁻¹).

Conclusions:

• The analytical performance-evaluated SCTV provides reliable WBV measurements.
• Established reference intervals for WBV in healthy adults can enhance clinical utility.
• These findings support the use of WBV assessment for managing conditions related to blood viscosity.