Multi-Depth Platelet Imaging for Accurate Blood Sample Counts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to accurately count platelets in blood samples due to a significant portion of platelets remaining suspended in the solution rather than settling within the monolayer focus field, even after extended settling times, affecting the accuracy of platelet estimation.
Innovation Solution
The method involves focusing a microscope at both the monolayer depth level and additional depth levels to identify and count platelets that have settled and those that remain suspended, allowing for a comprehensive platelet count by comparing these counts to derive clinical conditions or sample preparation adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the monolayer is allowed to form over a longer time period, then more platelets settle within the monolayer focus field, but some platelets still remain suspended within the solution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-depth-level imaging to multi-depth-level imaging. By acquiring images at multiple depth levels within the sample chamber, the system captures both settled platelets in the monolayer and suspended platelets in the solution, effectively adding a depth dimension to the measurement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the platelet population into two distinct groups based on their settling state: settled platelets captured in the monolayer focus field and suspended platelets captured in additional depth levels. This segmentation allows for separate identification and counting of each group, resolving the issue of incomplete platelet settlement.
2Measurement precision
If only platelets within the monolayer focus field are counted, then the counting process is simplified, but the platelet count is inaccurate due to suspended platelets being missed
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds depth as an additional dimension to the imaging process. Instead of relying solely on the monolayer focus field (single depth plane), the system acquires images at multiple depth levels, enabling comprehensive capture of both settled and suspended platelets while maintaining automated processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can acquire images at the monolayer depth level for settled platelet detection and simultaneously or sequentially acquire images at additional depth levels for suspended platelet detection. This multi-functionality is achieved through automated depth level selection and image acquisition.
3Measurement precision
If multiple depth levels are imaged to capture suspended platelets, then platelet count accuracy improves, but the imaging time and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification of depth levels where suspended platelets are likely to be found. By using image analysis algorithms to detect the presence and distribution of suspended platelets across multiple depth levels, the system can prioritize which depth levels require detailed imaging, reducing unnecessary imaging time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where initial images from multiple depth levels are analyzed to determine the distribution of suspended platelets. Based on this feedback, the system adjusts the imaging strategy, focusing detailed acquisition on depth levels that contain suspended platelets, thereby optimizing the balance between accuracy and speed.
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 approach enhances the accuracy of platelet counting by accounting for both settled and suspended platelets, enabling better estimation of platelet activation and sample validity, and facilitating informed sample preparation adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
focusing a microscope at both the monolayer depth level and additional depth levels to identify and count platelets
Implementation Method 2
the cells in the cell suspension are allowed to settle on the base surface of the sample chamber to form a monolayer of cells
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods are provided including imaging a blood sample that is a cell suspension deposited in a sample chamber. The cells are allowed to settle in the sample chamber to form a monolayer of cells. At least one microscopic image is acquired of the monolayer of cells using a microscope (24) while the microscope is focused at a monolayer-depth-level, and a first platelet count of platelets that have settled within the monolayer, is determined. An additional microscopic image of the simple is acquired, while the microscope is focused at a different depth level from the monolayer-depth-level, and a second platelet count of platelets that have not settled within the monolayer is determined. An output is generated based upon the first and second platelet counts. Other applications are also described.