Tangent Flow Hemolysis Detection With Capillary Colorimetric Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hemolysis detection methods in point-of-care testing are inefficient, requiring large sample volumes and long wait times, and fail to accurately quantify free hemoglobin levels, leading to interference in test results and potential misdiagnosis.
Innovation Solution
A tangent flow hemolysis detection device with a filter assembly that separates plasma from whole blood, using colorimetric filters to detect hemoglobin levels through capillary action, reducing sample volume and time to results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If Drabkin's Reagent is used to measure hemoglobin levels, then both intracellular and extracellular hemoglobin are detected, but it cannot accurately quantify free hemoglobin levels indicative of hemolysis
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the hemoglobin measurement into two distinct components: intracellular hemoglobin (from intact RBCs) and extracellular/free hemoglobin (from hemolysis). This is achieved by first measuring total hemoglobin, then separately measuring free hemoglobin using a method that specifically detects extracellular hemoglobin, and finally calculating intracellular hemoglobin by subtraction. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling accurate free hemoglobin quantification while maintaining overall measurement reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary measurement approach using a hemolysis detection reagent that specifically targets free hemoglobin in plasma/serum. This intermediary step allows differentiation between intracellular and extracellular hemoglobin, resolving the limitation of Drabkin's reagent which cannot distinguish between the two sources of hemoglobin.
2Measurement precision
If membrane-based plasma separation is used for hemolysis detection, then plasma is separated from blood, but large sample volume and long wait time are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention performs preliminary mixing of the blood sample with the hemolysis detection reagent before any separation or processing steps. This preliminary action allows the reagent to immediately interact with free hemoglobin in the sample, enabling rapid detection without requiring extended waiting periods for plasma separation or cell lysis to occur first.
Solution Approach 2:
The hemolysis detection reagent is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it detects free hemoglobin, serves as a mixing medium, and enables colorimetric measurement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate plasma separation steps, reducing both sample volume requirements and time to results while maintaining detection accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If Drabkin's Reagent method is used, then hemoglobin is converted to cyanmethemoglobin for measurement, but five milliliters of reagent and multiple pipetting steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the essential function of hemoglobin detection from the complex Drabkin's reagent protocol. By using a simplified hemolysis detection reagent that directly measures free hemoglobin through colorimetric change, it eliminates the need for cyanide-based conversion chemistry, multiple pipetting steps, and lengthy incubation periods, while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the measurement parameter from total hemoglobin (requiring cyanmethemoglobin conversion) to free hemoglobin concentration (detectable through direct colorimetric reaction). This parameter change simplifies the chemical reactions required and reduces the number of processing steps while preserving the ability to accurately quantify hemolysis.
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
The device provides rapid and accurate detection of hemolysis, minimizing sample waste and improving test accuracy by quantifying free hemoglobin levels directly in plasma, thus reducing interference and enhancing diagnostic reliability.
Implementation Method 1
using colorimetric filters to detect hemoglobin levels through capillary action
Implementation Method 2
using colorimetric filters to detect hemoglobin levels
Data Source
AI summary
A tangent flow hemolysis blood testing assembly, device and method are described herein. The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) relate to a device(s), kit(s), and method(s) for injecting a patient's liquid test sample into a reaction vessel. More specifically, the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) relate to an improved liquid test sample injection device that comprises a plug that forms an airtight seal that facilitates the active injection of a liquid test sample into a reaction vessel, and kits and methods of use related thereto.