Integrated Hematology Analyzer and Flow Cytometer for Cell Discrimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hematology analyzers and flow cytometers have limitations, such as inability to detect cell types using antibodies or fluorochromes and requiring manual intervention for result interpretation, leading to inefficiencies and potential human errors in medical diagnostics.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that combines the capabilities of hematology analyzers and flow cytometers to automatically interpret and discriminate cell populations by sharing data between both instruments, reducing the need for manual intervention and enhancing analytical efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If flow cytometers are used to detect cell types using antibodies or fluorochromes, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to slow analysis speed and high costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines hematology analyzer and flow cytometer into a single integrated system that performs both impedance-based cell counting and fluorescence-based cell typing simultaneously on the same sample, eliminating the need for sequential analysis and manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated system performs multiple functions including automated sample analysis, fluorescence detection, impedance measurement, and result interpretation within a single platform, replacing the need for separate instruments and technician expertise
2Measurement precision
If manual intervention is used to interpret cell population results, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time consumption and potential human errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates an automated interpretation module that autonomously analyzes flow cytometry data, compares it with hematology analyzer results, and generates diagnostic conclusions without requiring technician intervention, thereby eliminating human error and reducing analysis time
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback loops where the automated interpretation continuously refines cell population discrimination by comparing results from both instruments and adjusting analysis parameters to optimize accuracy while maintaining high throughput
3Measurement precision
If separate hematology analyzer and flow cytometer analyses are performed, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to need for multiple instruments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the hematology analyzer and flow cytometer into a single unified instrument that shares common components such as sample handling, fluidics, and data processing systems, thereby maintaining the analytical capabilities of both instruments while reducing overall system complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This combination significantly reduces the time and cost of complex analyses, improves accuracy by automating the interpretation of cell populations, and maintains the independence of both instruments for high-throughput and flow cytometric modes.
Implementation Method 1
Hematology analyzers, in general, use electrical impedance to classify and count red and white blood cells based on their size and/or volume
Implementation Method 2
Flow cytometers measure cell characteristics using detected fluorescence characteristics of cells when the cells are combined with one or more known fluorochromes
Implementation Method 3
Hematology analyzers can also utilize one or more beams of light to measure light scatter and reflectance to classify cells based on properties including size and granularity
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides methods and systems to combine the capabilities of a hematology analyzer with those of a flow cytometer to yield a far more powerful analytical system than either device alone. In one embodiment, a method of analyzing a cell sample includes receiving a first data generated by an analysis of a first aliquot of the sample on a first particle analyzer having a fluorescence measurement device such as a flow cytometer, detecting at least one unresolved cell population in the first data, and accessing a second data stored on a storage device wherein the second data was previously generated by interrogating a second aliquot of the sample using at least one of a cell volume measurement device and a cell conductivity measurement device in a second particle analyzer such as a hematology analyzer. The unresolved cell population in the first data is then resolved using the second data. Corresponding system embodiments are also disclosed.