Wbc laboratory test
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White Blood Cell (WBC) Laboratory Test: Innovations and Applications
Introduction to White Blood Cell (WBC) Testing
White blood cell (WBC) counts are critical for diagnosing and monitoring various health conditions, including infections, immune disorders, and hematological diseases. Traditional WBC testing methods often require bulky equipment and trained personnel, making them less accessible for frequent monitoring, especially in resource-limited settings1 2 3.
Point-of-Care WBC Testing Devices
Athelas One: Home Monitoring Device
The Athelas One is a novel point-of-care hematology analyzer designed for home use. It utilizes a small cylindrical device with a built-in light microscope to analyze a drop of blood from a finger stick. The device has shown strong linearity and comparability with standard laboratory counters, making it suitable for patients needing frequent monitoring, such as those undergoing chemotherapy1.
Smartphone-Based Electrochemical Sensor
A smartphone-based electrochemical sensor for WBC counting has been developed, utilizing microporous paper with patterned gold microelectrodes. This device allows for rapid, low-cost WBC analysis by measuring ion diffusion blockage caused by trapped WBCs. It provides results within one minute, making it ideal for point-of-care testing in resource-limited settings2.
LeukoScope: Low-Cost Point-of-Care Device
The LeukoScope is another innovative device designed for low-cost, point-of-care WBC and neutrophil counts. It uses a portable fluorescence microscope to analyze a blood sample stained with acridine orange. The device has demonstrated accuracy comparable to traditional laboratory methods, making it a viable option for use in low-resource settings7.
Advances in WBC Counting Techniques
Machine Learning and AI-Enabled Devices
Recent advancements include the use of machine learning and AI in WBC counting. For instance, an AI-enabled diagnostic device developed by Truvian incorporates high-throughput cell imaging and deep learning algorithms to perform a complete blood count (CBC) with differential. This device offers accurate and precise CBC analysis at the point of care, enhancing diagnostic capabilities5.
Label-Free Identification Using Machine Learning
A label-free approach using imaging flow cytometry and machine learning algorithms has been developed to classify live, unstained WBCs. This method minimizes cell disturbance and achieves high accuracy, making it a promising tool for liquid biopsy and other diagnostic applications4.
Clinical Applications and Validation
Pediatric Emergency Department
Point-of-care tests for WBC count and C-reactive protein (CRP) have been validated in pediatric emergency departments. These tests showed good agreement with laboratory methods, proving to be feasible and accurate for assessing febrile children8.
Paper-Based Cytometers
Paper-based cytometers using materials like coffee filters have been developed for the detection and enumeration of WBCs according to their immunophenotype. These devices offer a low-cost, point-of-care solution for WBC analysis, expanding the opportunities for accessible diagnostics9.
Conclusion
Innovations in WBC testing, including point-of-care devices and advanced counting techniques, are making WBC analysis more accessible, accurate, and cost-effective. These advancements hold significant potential for improving patient care, particularly in resource-limited settings and for individuals requiring frequent monitoring.
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