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A Microfluidic Flow Chamber Model for Platelet Transfusion and Hemostasis Measures Platelet Deposition and Fibrin Formation in Real-time
Published on: February 14, 2017
Validation of an intelligent automated workflow for accurate platelet counting in hematology laboratory
A Giovannelli1, M Pieri2, F G Viola3
1Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, Rome, Italy; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy; Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
Background:
Platelet (PLT) enumeration is essential for diagnosing hematological and coagulative disorders, but traditional methods face cost and training challenges. An intelligent PLT counting workflow was developed to automatically provide accurate PLT values, improving efficiency and costs. This study aims to validate the performance of this intelligent workflow, focusing on accuracy and efficiency.
Methods:
A total of 1,208 samples (909 randomly selected and 299 abnormal samples exhibiting suspected PLT interference) from Tor Vergata University Hospital were analyzed using the Mindray BC-6800Plus analyzer, employing both impedance (PLT-I) and fluorescent (PLT-O) techniques. Blood smears were prepared using the SC-120 slide maker and examined by the MC-80 morphology analyzer (PLT-M). Abnormal samples were also analyzed with CD41/CD61 immuno-platelet (immunoPLT) testing.
Results:
Among 299 abnormal samples, 153 were assessed by PLT-I, showing a strong correlation with immunoPLT (R2 = 0.943). For 49 samples, PLT-O showed a high correlation (R2 = 0.989). The remaining samples (PLT-O < 100 x 109/L) were verified by morphology (PLT-M), with 95 confirmed (R2 = 0.975). Only 2 samples required manual review due to PLT-M exceeding the PLT-O tolerance range. Overall, 1205 samples passed the automated workflow, with 234 needing PLT-O retesting, 161 requiring microscopy, and 3 needing manual review.
Conclusion:
The intelligent PLT workflow accurately processed over 99% of samples, minimizing the need for fluorescent counting and blood smear reviews. It enhances laboratory efficiency, reduces manual intervention, and lowers reagent costs, supporting greater automation.
