A HUMAN 3-part hematology analyzer is a medical device that measures and analyzes blood cells to provide a count of the three main types of white blood cells: lymphocytes, midsize cells (monocytes/granulocytes), and neutrophils. These analyzers use a method like the impedance principle to count cells based on their size and volume.

How It Works

• Impedance method: The analyzer uses an electrical current to measure cell size and volume as blood cells pass through an opening.

• Cell differentiation: It groups white blood cells into three populations based on size:
– Lymphocytes: Smallest white blood cells.
– Monocytes/Granulocytes: Medium-sized cells.
– Neutrophils: A group of larger cells.

• Limitations: Because it relies on size, it cannot differentiate between all white blood cell subtypes. For example, eosinophils and basophils are grouped with monocytes and are not individually identified.

Key Features and Benefits

• Efficient: Provides faster and more precise results than manual blood cell counting.

• Differential counts: Gives a more detailed picture of the blood’s immune system by counting and differentiating white blood cells.

What to Consider

• Limited differentiation: It does not provide a full 5-part differential count, as it cannot separate eosinophils and basophils from other cells.

• Diagnostic limitations: May not flag certain conditions where the numbers of eosinophils or basophils are significantly altered due to issues like parasitic infections, allergic reactions, or other specific diseases.