Sample stability for complete blood cell count using the Sysmex XN haematological analyser

Area of Science:

• Clinical Laboratory Science
• Hematology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Sample stability is critical for accurate hematology laboratory results.
• Investigating the reliability of Sysmex XN hematological testing is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of storage duration (up to 24 hours) and temperature (room temperature, 4°C, 37°C) on hematological test parameters.
• To determine the reliability of Sysmex XN analyzer in analyzing stored blood samples.

Main Methods:

• Whole blood samples from 16 healthy outpatients were analyzed immediately and after 3, 6, and 24 hours.
• Samples were stored in triplicate at room temperature, 4°C, and 37°C.
• Hematological parameters were measured using the Sysmex XN analyzer.

Main Results:

• Minimal bias was observed within 3 hours, except for RDW and PLT-I at 37°C.
• Significant bias in MCH, MCV, RBC, MCHC, and PLT-I emerged after 6 hours at various temperatures.
• After 24 hours, most parameters showed meaningful bias across all storage conditions, particularly at 37°C.

Conclusions:

• Hematological test results are significantly impacted by storage duration exceeding 3 hours.
• Storage temperature critically affects sample stability and test accuracy.
• Caution is advised when interpreting results from samples stored longer than 3 hours.