Evaluating the CELL-DYN 3500 haematology analyser in an acute general hospital

The CELL-DYN 3500 (CD3500) (Abbott Diagnostics Division, Santa Clara, CA, USA) is a multiparameter, automated haematology analyser system capable of producing 22 haematological parameters including a screening five-part differential. The evaluation was performed in a recently expanded acute care general hospital. Studies of linearity, carryover and precision were acceptable and within manufacturer's stated limits. Correlation of CD3500 with manual differential counts were good except for the basophil count. The white cell flagging system had a sensitivity of 83.6% and specificity of 88.9% with 85.6% agreement. The platelet flagging system also had comparable sensitivity and specificity rate of 88.4% and 94.5% and agreement rate of 92.2%. The overall false positive rate and false negative rate for both the white cell and platelet flags combined were 8.6% and 10.3%. All samples provided a differential with no rejection experienced. The MAPSS technology, together with the extended lyse mode and the investigational nine-part differential provides potential for future development in WBC differential.