Method for the automation of equine differential leucocyte counts.

This research talks about a newly developed automated technique to count equine differential leucocyte counts using the Coulter Channelyzer and examines its effectiveness compared to standard methods. It highlights the speed and efficiency of this method, while also acknowledging its limitations.

Methodology and Results

• The researchers developed a new technique to automate equine differential leucocyte counts. This process utilizes the Coulter Channelyzer, a laboratory instrument that allows for detailed particle size distribution analysis.
• The study involved comparing results obtained from this new method against results produced by standard microscopic techniques.
• On testing, for most cases, there was good agreement between the results produced by the new method and the standard one, indicating its efficacy.
• The new technique was found to have high capacity, as it could analyze both differential and total leucocyte counts at a rate of 25 samples per hour.
• For each sample, an average of 16,000 leucocytes were classified by the Channelyzer. This demonstrates the large-scale efficiency of the automated process.

Limitations and Recommendations

• Despite its efficiency, the new method encountered limitations with certain cell types.
• Specifically, it was noted that the method of volume analysis is most precise for counting polymorphonuclear neutrophils, lymphocytes, and eosinophils, but not as effective in recognizing an increase in monocytes or the presence of immature cells.
• The researchers therefore recommend that even with the new method, blood films should still be screened manually to identify any increase in monocytes or the presence of immature cells.