Buyer’s Guide: Hematology Analyzer Comparison for Clinical Laboratories

A hematology analyzer is a vital piece of equipment in the clinical lab. Researchers and medical professionals use hematology analyzers for various purposes, including evaluating and monitoring medical conditions, conducting scientific research, and developing new drugs. This hematology analyzer buying guide will help you evaluate some of the top hematology analyzers for labs.

A hematology analyzer measures the levels and sizes of various factors in the blood. The best hematology analyzers will meet your needs in terms of cost and budget.

Introduction

The primary function of a hematology analyzer is to perform a complete blood count (CBC). A CBC helps healthcare professionals check for infections, anemia, cancer, and other health issues. These conditions can greatly affect patient health. Healthcare professionals rely on accurate laboratory information to make medical decisions that impact patient care.

This buyer’s guide helps you choose the best hematology analyzers for your clinical setting.

What Should You Consider When Purchasing a Hematology Analyzer

When performing a hematology analyzer comparison, you have many factors to consider. These are some of the hematology analyzer features you should consider.

• Workload capacity
• Testing parameters
• Ease of use
• Brand reputability
• Total costs
• Service plans
• Warranty
• Reliability
• Accuracy

These are just some factors to consider when deciding what analyzer will work best in your clinical setting.

Different hematology analyzers use different technologies to evaluate samples:

• Flow cytometry examines samples by using lasers or fluorescence. It measures the light cells see as they pass through a narrow flow.
• Electrical impedance measures the number and volume of cells after someone dilutes and aspirates the blood through capillary openings. This sorts the cells by size, allowing someone to count them.
• Laser scattering measures the size distribution of the cells after the laser beam passes through the sample. The laser beam scatters as it refracts. You can measure this scatter in angles related to the laser. This helps calculate the size of the cells in the sample.

Another key factor is the number of parts you want on your differential, which has 3 to 7 parts.

Differentiation usually divides types of white blood cells. It can also include red blood cells. Reticulocytes are a form of immature red blood cells that can give important insights:

• A 3-part differential usually groups white blood cells into small (lymphocytes), medium (monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils), and large (neutrophils).
• A 5-part differential will separate white blood cells into five subgroups: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils.
• A 7-part differential includes neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, basophils, eosinophils, other white cells, and nucleated red blood cells.

If your lab does pediatric testing, you should consider some extra factors. An important factor is the age range for which the analyzer receives approval. Getting pediatric blood samples from a capillary sample might be easier than a venous one. Labs that do pediatric testing should consider using an analyzer to evaluate these types of samples.

Comparing the Leading Hematology Analyzers’ Performance Metrics

There are several key metrics to consider when analyzing the performance of advanced hematology analyzers. Some of these parameters include:

• Accuracy – how close is the reading to actual value
• Precision – degree of agreement between multiple measurements of the same specimen
• Linearity – ability to provide test results directly proportional to the concentration of the quantity to be measured
• Carryover – cross contamination of a sample from the previous one
• Flag rate – how often the system flags abnormal results requiring manual review
• Slide review rate – percentage of samples that require manual microscopic review
• Sample throughput – number of samples that can be processed in an hour
• Analysis time – the length of time it takes to complete an analysis
• Ability to differentiate between different types of white blood cells

Manufacturers will generally provide data for each of the measured parameters. The data should include accuracy, precision, linearity, and first-pass efficiency information. First-pass efficiency factors into the slide review rate. The fewer slides you need to review, the faster the throughput and the less staff time you require.

Cost Analysis

Many factors go into the cost analysis for hematology analyzers. The cost of each test and the machine are important, but the total cost of ownership is the most important factor. Some of the factors that you should consider for total cost of ownership include:

• Cost of reagents and consumables
• Operating costs, including the cost of training technicians, maintenance procedures (cleaning, calibration, setup, and warmup time)
• Cost of maintaining technician competency on the analyzer
• Service costs

The price of instruments can vary from a few thousand dollars to over a hundred thousand dollars. Those numbers can be much higher once you factor in the cost of ownership. This is something to keep in mind when you compare hematology analyzers.

You may want to consider a refurbished unit to be able to get better hematology analyzer specifications at a lower cost. There are additional factors to consider when considering refurbished units:

• Has the unit been refurbished to manufacturer standards?
• What warranty and support is offered for the unit?
• Has the equipment been tested and certified after being refurbished?
• Are all maintenance, certifications, and quality control records available for review?
• What is the condition of the equipment?

Which Is the Best Hematological Analyzer Machine?

Ultimately, when you compare hematology analyzers, the decision about which is best depends on several factors. One is the brand’s reputation. You’ll want a brand people recognize for quality and for standing by its product.

Choose a brand that provides a steady supply of reagents and should also support you during training and after installation.

User Reviews and Feedback

Information from others can help you choose the best analyzer for your lab. Talk to people who use the systems you are considering.

Their experiences can guide your decision. Consider talking to other labs of similar size and demographics about their experience with different companies. You may also want to consider expert opinions and endorsements when looking at hematology analyzer reviews.

Many companies can provide you with references upon request. Most have clients of various sizes and needs willing to share their experiences with potential customers. Consider looking for independent studies that test parameters in the analyzers.

Sysmex: A Global Leader in Clinical Hematology Analyzers

Sysmex was started in Japan in 1968 and established its American branch in 1979. The company operates on three elements: mission, value, and mind. Sysmex has several lines of laboratory analyzers, including hematology analyzers.

Sysmex XN-2000 Automated Hematology

The Sysmex XN-2000 uses laser light scattering and side fluorescent light to analyze a sample volume of 88 microliters. The Sysmex XN-2000 has a throughput of up to 200 samples per hour. It measures complete blood counts with differential and reticulocytes, immature granulocytes, and nucleated red blood cells. Of the 44 diagnostic parameters measured by this analyzer, 16 are optional.

Sysmex XN550

The Sysmex XN550 is designed for small to mid-sized laboratories. This analyzer can process 60-70 samples per hour and requires 25-70 microliters of blood to run the test.

This analyzer performs a six-part differential. The analyzer uses fluorescence flow cytometry, hydrodynamic focusing, and cyanide-free SLS methods for measuring parameters. It also has the potential to be upgraded to add new values.

Sysmex XP-300/330 Automated Hematology Analyzer

The Sysmex XP-300/330 automated hematology analyzer performs a 3-part differential. It has an hourly throughput of 60 samples and analyzes 20-50 microliters of blood. The analyzer counts the blood cells using a modified Coulter method. The Sysmex XP-300 evaluates 20 parameters.

Abbott Laboratories

Abbott Laboratories was founded in 1888. The company produces several products, including hematology analyzers. Abbott analyzers range from low to high volume to accommodate all lab settings. The company’s headquarters are in Lake County, Illinois.

Abbott CELL-DYN Ruby Hematology Analyzer

The Abbott CELL-DYN Ruby hematology analyzer has an 84 specimens/hour throughput. It evaluates samples with a sample volume of 150-230 microliters using MultiAngle Polarized Scatter Separation laser technology. This analyzer performs a 5-part differential.

Beckman Coulter Inc.

Beckman Coulter is headquartered in Brea, CA. The company was founded in 1935.

Beckman Coulter focuses exclusively on biomedical testing. The company’s mission is “Relentlessly Reimagine Healthcare, One Diagnosis at a Time.” Beckman analyzers use artificial intelligence and automated processes to improve accuracy.

Beckman Coulter DxH 800 Hematology Analyzer

The Beckman Coulter DxH 800 Hematology Analyzer System is a highly reliable and efficient solution for blood analysis in clinical laboratories. It has advanced technology and a simple interface. It gives fast and accurate results, making it an important tool for hematology testing.

With its 5-part differential, the analyzer ensures precise cell counts and high-quality performance, even for complex samples. Its compact design and automated features help optimize laboratory workflows, improving both efficiency and productivity. The Beckman Coulter DxH 800 is great for medium to large labs. People recognize it for its reliability, accuracy, and ease of use.

Beckman Coulter DxH 900 Hematology Analyzer

The Beckman Coulter DxH 900 Hematology Analyzer has a throughput of up to 100 samples/hour. The analyzer uses an Enhanced Coulter Principle to test the sample. The analyzer performs a 5-part differential. It requires a sample volume of 165 microliters.

Beckman Coulter DxH 500 Hematology Analyzer

The Beckman Coulter DxH 500 hematology analyzer uses a volume of 12-20 microliters to perform a 5-part differential. It can analyze up to 60 samples per hour.

Beckman Coulter DxH 690T Hematology Analyzer

The Beckman Coulter DxH 690T Hematology Analyzer is advertised for mid-volume labs. This analyzer can process 100 samples per hour and uses 165-200 microliters of blood per sample. It performs a 5-part differential.

Mindray

Mindray was founded in 1991 in the Nanshan District, Shenzhen, China. In 2004, the company received its first product certificate from the Food and Drug Administration. The company’s mission is to “Advance Medical technologies to make healthcare more accessible.”

Mindray BC-20s- 3-Part Differential Hematology Analyzer

The Mindray BC-20s is a compact three-part hematology analyzer. It can measure 19 parameters and has a throughput of 40 samples per hour. The analyzer evaluates samples using 9-20 microliters of blood and an impedance method for evaluating WBC, RBC, and PLT counts.

Mindray BC-30 Auto Hematology Analyzer

The Mindray BC-30 Auto Hematology Analyzer is a 3-part device. It can process 70 samples every hour.

Mindray BC 5000 Automated Hematology Analyzer

The Mindray BC 5000 Automated Hematology Analyzer performs a 5-part differential. It can process 40 samples per hour and requires a 15-microliter sample volume. This analyzer uses tri-angle laser scatter, focused flow cytometry, and chemical dye.

Mindray BC-2800 Auto Hematology Analyzer

The Mindray BC-2800 is a reliable solution for accurate blood analysis in clinical laboratories. It uses advanced technology and an easy-to-use interface. It provides fast and reliable results, making it useful for hematology testing. Equipped with a 3-part differential, this analyzer ensures precise cell counts and delivers high-quality performance.

Its compact design and automated features help streamline laboratory workflows, boosting efficiency and productivity. Small to medium-sized labs favor the Mindray BC-2800 for its dependable results and ease of use.

Conclusion

Choosing equipment for your laboratory is challenging, and hematology analyzers are no exception. Balancing many factors while considering your budgetary restrictions requires diligence and research. Ultimately, you hope to find an analyzer that will meet your needs now and in the future.

References

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