Stability of Complete Blood Count and 3-part White Cell Differential Parameters with Storage Time and Temperature Variation using Cell DYN 1800 Automated Hematology Analyzer
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Date
2011-07
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Addis Abeba University
Abstract
Background: Complete blood count (CBC) and differential white cell counts are the most
commonly ordered tests in clinical practice. The standard operation procedures in the ART
laboratories, which are prepared based on the instrument instruction manual of the company,
recommend 8 hours storage at room temperature. However, there is no clear information as to
how to handle delayed specimens in situations where delayance is unavoidable.
Objective: To evaluate whole blood stability with time, storage temperature and
transportation conditions using Cell-Dyn 1800, a 3-part diff hematological analyzer.
Methods: A total of 45 adult participants, 19 from ART clinic of Tikur Anbessa Specialized
Hospital and 26 apparently healthy Medical Laboratory Science students of Addis Ababa
University were included in the study using convenient sampling methods. EDTA whole
blood samples were analyzed at baseline before and after aliquoting. Each of six aliquots, for
room temperature and 2-8
O
C storage, one each for transporting with and without an ice box
were used. After the baseline analysis of the direct EDTA tube and an aliquot, all specimens
were analyzed at 8, 24, 32, 56 and 72 hours of storage. Same EDTA tube was used each time
after refrigeration. Transported samples were analyzed within 8 hours and compared with
baseline values. Cell-Dyn 1800 automated hematology analyzer was used following the
manufacturers instruction.
Results: Among the CBC parameters, WBC, RBC, Hgb, MCH were stable for 72 hours post
sample collection regardless of storage temperature. These values were also unaffected during
transportation. MCHC was relatively less stable. PLT counts remained stable in the direct EDTA
tube samples stored at 2-8
O
C for 72 hours while aliquoted samples were less stable, showing a
declining trend with time. The MCV and RDW, parameters affected by change in the red cell
size showed an increasing trend with time where differences were statistically significant
(P<0.05) after 48 hours of storage. WBC Differential data was the least stable of all, even after 8
hours of storage, where granulocytes showed a declining trend
Conclusion: The various CBC parameters showed different levels of stability at different
specimen storage and handling conditions. Each parameter should be treated case by case in
conditions where delayance is unavoidable.
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Keywords
Blood Count,cell,Hematology Analyzer