hm2 hematology system - abaxis uk · vetscan® hm2 hematology system for veterinary use only...
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VetScan® HM2Hematology System
For Veterinary Use OnlyCustomer and Technical Support
1-800-822-2947
November 2006
PN: 760-7003 Rev. A AssyPN: 760-7013 Rev. A Text© 2006, Abaxis, Inc.Union City, CA 94587
IMPORTANT: READ BEFORE USING THE VETSCAN® HM2 ANALYZER FOR THE FIRST TIME
To get started quickly, please refer to the Quick Reference Guide in the pocket of this Operator’s Manual.
Fill in this information for future reference
Serial number (from the back of the unit): .....................................................................................
Date of installation: ............................................................................................................................
Distributor name and address: .........................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................
Abaxis sales representative name: ....................................................................................................
Phone: ....................................................................................................
Email: .....................................................................................................
November 2006
PN: 760-7013 Rev. A©2006, Abaxis, Inc.
Union City, CA94587
THANK YOU FOR PURCHASING THE VETSCAN® HM2!Please fill out the Abaxis Product Warranty and Registration Card located in the front pocket of this Operator's Manual and send it to Abaxis soon to get your benefits started.
Table of Contents
Section 1: General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21.2 Customer and Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21.3 Symbols Used in Labeling and Hazard Identification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Section 2: System Overview and Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.1 VetScan HM2 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22.2 Unpacking the System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-162.3 Selecting a Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-182.4 Installing the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-202.5 Turning the Analyzer On and Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-282.6 Initializing the VetScan HM2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-312.7 Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32
Section 3: Configuring the VetScan HM2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.1 Printer Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23.2 Operational Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-93.3 Date and Time Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-153.4 Fluid Sensor Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16
Section 4: Test Procedure and Interpreting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
4.1 Collecting and Preparing Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24.2 Before Performing an Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-44.3 Analyzing a Sample. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-74.4 Adjusting the Needle Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-104.5 Adjusting the Lyse Volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-114.6 Interpreting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-124.7 Printing and Exporting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-154.8 Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-164.9 Using Prediluted Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-214.10 Interpreting CBC Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Section 5: Calibration and Quality Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
5.1 Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-25.2 Performing Quality Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Section 6: Managing the Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
6.1 Database Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-26.2 Database Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-26.3 Navigating the Database System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Table of Contents TOC-1
Section 7: Maintenance & Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
7.1 Periodic Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-27.2 Cleaning the Aperture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-57.3 Bleach-Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-57.4 Shut-Down Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-77.5 Changing the Reagent Pack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-87.6 Running the Self Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-107.7 Replacing the Peristaltic Pump Tube Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
Section 8: Special Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
8.1 Viewing the Software Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-28.2 Viewing Status Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-28.3 Updating the Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-38.4 Customizing the User-Defined Species Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-38.5 Customizing and Printing the Normal Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Section 9: Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1
9.1 Warning Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-29.2 Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-49.3 Evaluating Unexpected Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-59.4 Preparing the Analyzer for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10
Section 10: Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1
10.1 VetScan HM2 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-210.2 Linearity Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Section A: Introduction to Veterinary Hematology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
A.1 Function of Blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2A.2 Composition of Blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3A.3 Blood Cell Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4A.4 Normal Hematology Ranges (Dog, Cat, Horse, and Others) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-7A.5 Veterinary Hematology References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-8
Section B: Operating Principles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
B.1 Complete Blood Count (CBC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2B.2 Measurement Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2B.3 Hemoglobin Determination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5B.4 Measured and Calculated Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6B.5 Measured and Calculated Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-7
TOC-2 Table of Contents
Section C: Potential Sample Interferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1
Section D: Veterinary Case Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1
D.1 Human Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-2D.2 Dogs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-3D.3 Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-10D.4 Horses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-15
Section E: Glossary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-1
VetScan HM2 Updates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . following Index
Table of Contents TOC-3
TOC-4 Table of Contents
Section 1
General InformationThis section provides general information about the Abaxis VetScan®HM2 Hematology System.
Section Contents
1.1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1.2 Customer and Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1.3 Symbols Used in Labeling and Hazard Identification. . . . . . . . 1-3
General Information 1-1
1.1 Introduction
The VetScan® HM2 Hematology System is an impedance-based hematology system designed spe-
cifically for veterinary in vitro diagnostic use.
The VetScan HM2 provides a fully automated complete blood count (CBC) analysis of white blood
cells, red blood cells, and platelets in whole blood in a veterinary setting. The system offers an
18-parameter CBC analysis, including a three-part WBC differential, and three cellular histograms.
The VetScan HM2 is calibrated to analyze multiple veterinary species. Check the list of species on
the HM2 itself (see page 4-8), or contact Abaxis Technical Support for the full list of available spe-
cies. Additional species may be added to the analyzer software from time to time by means of a
simple CD-ROM upgrade, provided to HM2 customers at no charge.
The HM2 system features the following components:
■ the hematology analyzer itself, including a keypad, display, and internal printer
■ an external keyboard that can be connected to the analyzer if needed
■ a reagent pack, including a diluent, lyse agent, cleaner, and rinse solution, each in its
own container. The diluent container can also be used as a waste container for the
next reagent pack.
For added convenience, the HM2 can be connected to a VetScan or VetScan2 Chemistry Analyzer
so that results from both instruments can be consolidated and printed on a single, standard-size
page. In addition, the two analyzers can be connected in tandem to a computer for use with veteri-
nary data management systems. The HM2 alone will also interface directly with an external com-
puter.
1.2 Customer and Technical Support
Abaxis Technical Support personnel can answer your questions regarding the VetScan HM2
Hematology Analyzer, or the combined VetScan HM2/VS2 system.
■ Telephone: 800-822-2947
Beginning January 1, 2007, Abaxis Technical Support will be available seven days a
week from 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (PST), except on major U.S. holidays.
Prior to January 1, 2007, Abaxis Technical Support is available 5:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m. (PST) Monday through Friday, and 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday.
■ Email: [email protected]
■ Web: www.abaxis.com
■ Fax: 877-900-9333
1-2 General Information
1.3 Symbols Used in Labeling and Hazard Identification
The VetScan HM2 uses safety features to protect the operator from injury, prevent damage to the
HM2, and to alert the operator of problems with results. Symbols used in labeling and through this
manual are shown below.
Note: Abaxis contact information is also available in the HM2’s software.
To view the information, press the Utilities key on the instru-
ment’s front panel, then press 6 to select Service.
Computer connection. Use only a recommended computer interface cable.
Fragile. Use caution when handling. Do not drop.
Keyboard connection. Use the keyboard provided.
Up. Always store with the arrow facing up.
Printer connection. Use only printers recommended and validated by Abaxis. Use only the recommended printer cable.
Warning: Alerts the operator of hazardous conditions that can cause injury or damage the analyzer. Read all warning statements carefully, and proceed with caution.
Sunlight. Keep out of direct sunlight.
Caution: Procedures that must be followed to avoid damaging the analyzer. Read all caution statements carefully. The Product Warranty can be voided if caution statements are not followed.
Storage temperature. Store only at temperatures within the indicated range.
Note: Important, helpful information
General Information 1-3
1-4 General Information
Section 2
System Overview and InstallationThis section includes an overview of the VetScan HM2: its features, func-tionality, main components, reagent pack, and available accessories. The
section also provides complete installation instructions.
Section Contents
2.1 VetScan HM2 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2.1.1 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2.1.2 Main Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2.1.3 Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2.1.4 Reagents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
2.1.5 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
2.1.6 Subsystems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
2.1.7 Menu/Command Listing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
2.2 Unpacking the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.3 Selecting a Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
2.3.1 Space Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
2.3.2 Environmental Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
2.3.3 Electrical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
2.4 Installing the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
2.4.1 Connecting an External Keyboard (Optional) . . . . . . . 2-20
2.4.2 Connecting the Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
2.4.3 Installing Paper into the Built-In Printer . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
2.4.4 Connecting an External Printer (Optional) . . . . . . . . . 2-21
2.4.5 Connecting a VetScan Chemistry Analyzer (Optional) 2-22
2.4.6 Connecting the HM2 to a Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23
2.4.7 Connecting the Reagent Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-25
2.5 Turning the Analyzer On and Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
2.5.1 Turning the Analyzer On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
2.5.2 Turning the Analyzer Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
2.6 Initializing the VetScan HM2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31
2.7 Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-32
System Overview and Installation 2-1
2.1 VetScan HM2 System Overview
The following pages provide an overview of the VetScan HM2.
2.1.1 Features
■ Small sample size requirement: consumes approximately 25 µl of EDTA-preserved
whole blood per CBC measurement.
■ Rapid test turnaround: only 2–3 minutes to results.
■ Advanced, integrated self-cleaning system for optimized performance with very mini-
mal maintenance — expanded automatic aperture cleaning after every run.
■ Simple, intuitive, and easy-to-use software interface makes the analyzer very user-
friendly, and requires only a short learning curve.
■ Accurate results for out-of-range values: automatic calculations are provided for external
1:5 dilutions in cases of extremely high values or very small sample volumes.
■ Simple, flexible database with large storage capacity:
❑ Automatically saves up to 1,000 test records.
❑ Data can be downloaded to a USB flash drive or a compatible data-management sys-
tem.
❑ Quality control (QC) results (including Levy-Jennings charts) are stored in the
instrument’s QC database for viewing and management.
■ User reminders for replacing the reagent pack and performing simple maintenance tasks.
■ Integrated laboratory results: the HM2 can be connected to a VetScan Chemistry Ana-
lyzer for integrated results reporting.
■ Advanced user features: Multi user mode, customizable normal range, and adjustable
lysing strength.
2-2 System Overview and Installation
2.1.2 Main Components
The following pages show the main functional components of the VetScan HM2 analyzer.
Front View
1 Control panel with high-contrast liquid crystal display (LCD) — see page 2-5
2 CD-ROM drive
3 USB Type A port 4 Built-in thermal paper printer — see page 2-4
5 Interchangeable sample tube adapter 6 Sampling rotor
2
3
5
4
6
1
System Overview and Installation 2-3
Back View
Built-in Thermal Paper Printer
The analyzer includes an internal printer that outputs test
results on thermal paper.
1 Reagent tubing connections 2 Power On/Off switch
3 12 VDC external power supply input 4 USB Type A port
5 USB Type A port 6 Serial (RS-232) port
7 USB Type B port 8 PS/2 keyboard port
2
1
3
4
5
6
7
8
2-4 System Overview and Installation
2.1.3 Control Panel
The analyzer’s control panel features an LCD display, a keypad, six “hard-function” keys, six
“soft-function” keys, a Start button, and a status LED indicator.
■ Start button
Press and release to begin an analysis cycle.
■ Status indicator
This LED (above the Start button) indicates the instrument’s status, as follows.
Table 2-1: Status LED Color Indications
LED color HM2 status
Green The instrument is in ready state (analysis can begin).
Red The instrument is performing an analysis. No new analysis can be started.
Orange The instrument is performing a maintenance process, or is in power-saving standby mode (see “Standby Mode” on page 2-32).
LCD display
Start button
Status LED
Soft-functionkeys
Hard-function keys
Keypad
Start button
Status LED
System Overview and Installation 2-5
■ Keypad — The analyzer’s control keypad includes the following:
❑ Alpha-numeric keys for entering data and selecting menu items.
❑ Decimal point ( . ) key.
❑ del key for deleting characters.
❑ Cursor control keys: and for moving between items displayed on the screen,
and and for moving between items on the screen or menu levels.
❑ OK key for confirming data, and for moving through items on the screen.
■ Hard-function keys — single-function
keys on the instrument’s front panel
above the LCD display, each of which
opens a menu of commands for that function.
Table 2-2: Hard-Function Keys
Press this key.... To use this function....
Information/Help
Measurement/Analysis — press to begin analysis.
Database — press to view stored results.
Utilities — press to perform quality control, calibration, mainte-nance, or setting functions, or to check reagent status.
Exit — press to shut down the instrument.
Note: See “Menu/Command Listing” on page 2-12 for a list of the menus
and commands that are available through the hard-function keys.
2-6 System Overview and Installation
■ Soft-function keys — a row of unlabeled
keys just below the LCD display:
The functions of these keys depend on
the current menu, and are displayed on
the screen immediately above the
keys, as shown in this example.
To use a displayed function, press the soft-function key below it. The following table
lists the various soft-function keys that appear on the instrument.
Table 2-3: Soft-Function Keys
Accepts the results or changes made.
Leaves the current menu without saving changes.
Exits the current menu or action.
Displays histograms of the selected result.
Displays table of values for the selected result.
Opens the local menu for the functions displayed.
Enters or modifies patient data.
Repeats the previous action.
Move through results displayed on multiple pages.
Move through screens with multiple pages.
Change the scaling of Levey-Jennings chart (16 or 64 days).
When completing a bleach-cleaning, select NEW to use a new reagent pack, OLD to continue using the current reagent pack, or to STOP to shut down the instrument.
Resets the status of the reagent pack.
Displays reference ranges for selected species.
Checks the printer status if an error occurs.
Attempts to print again after a printer error has been corrected.
Resets the printer if an error occurs.
Stops the current process.
ACCEPT
CANCEL
EXIT
GRAPH
TABLE
MENU
PT.ID
REPEAT
PREVIOUS NEXT
PGUP PGDN
---16--- ---64---
NEW OLD STOP
CHANGE
LIMITS
CHKSTA
CONTINUE
RESET
ABORT
System Overview and Installation 2-7
2.1.4 Reagents
VetScan HM2 Reagent Pack
The HM2 reagent pack (PN 750-9000) consists of bottles containing diluent, cleaner, lyse, and
rinse solutions.
The following table lists the reagents volumes and bottle sizes in the reagent pack.
Table 2-4: Reagents and Containers
Cat, Dog, and Human Controls
Before you can perform analyses, the instrument must first be calibrated using the Human Calibra-
tor1, and quality control procedures must then be performed using Cat and Dog Control materials.
These control materials are not included with the analyzer, but can be ordered from your distributor
or directly from Abaxis. If you order from Abaxis, please use these part numbers:
■ 700-9003, Dog Control, 2 cc vial (1)
■ 700-9004, Cat Control, 2 cc vial (1)
■ 700-9005, Human Calibrator, 2 cc vial (1)
Note: To ensure accurate test results, use only the reagents supplied by
Abaxis.
Reagents Descriptions Color Code Volume Bottle Size
Diluent Isotonic saline solution used to dilute whole blood specimens, and to rinse the ana-lyzer’s fluidic system between analyses.
Green 6200 ml 8 liters
Rinse Used with diluent to prevent salt built-up on aperture.
White 500 ml 500 ml
Cleaner Used in the fluidic system cleaning pro-cess.
Blue 250 ml 250 ml
Lyse Used to create hemolysate for three-part WBC differential, and for total WBC and HGB.
Yellow 270 ml 500 ml
1. The Human Calibrator is derived from human sources. Observe universal safety precautions when handling the Calibrator. See “Calibration and Quality Control” on page 5-1.
2-8 System Overview and Installation
2.1.5 Accessories
This section describes the accessories that are included with the analyzer. To order replacements,
contact your distributor or Abaxis.
External Mini-Keyboard
You can connect the external mini-keyboard to the instrument through its PS/2 keyboard port or
one of its USB ports (see “Back View” on page 2-4). The mini-keyboard provides a convenient
way to enter patient and clinic information.
The mini-keyboard’s function keys F1 through F6 function as equivalent to the analyzer’s soft-
function keys (from left to right: see page 2-7), and keys F7 through F12 function as equivalent to
the analyzer’s hard-function keys (see page 2-6):
■ F7 — Information/Help key
■ F8 — Measurement/Analysis key
■ F9 — Database key
■ F10 — Utilities key
■ F11 — Print key
■ F12 — Exit key
Power Supply and Power Cord
The analyzer uses an external 12 VDC power supply that
can operate from a 230 or 110 V main outlet. The power
supply’s input socket is a standard power cable connec-
tion, and its output is a special locking socket.
CAUTION: Abaxis recommends using the analyzer with a surge protector
designed for a computer.
In addition, an uninterruptable power supply (UPS) is strongly rec-
ommended if the HM2 will be used in an area prone to electrical
surges or power outages.
An appropriate power supply is vital for the integrity of the sys-
tem.
System Overview and Installation 2-9
Reagent Tubing Kit
The reagent tubing kit (Abaxis Part No. 750-9002)
includes the color-coded reagent tubes used to connect
the HM2 with the containers in the reagent pack.
The kit also include the reagent bottle caps with connec-
tors and drop-down tubes, as shown.
Cleaning Tube Kit
The cleaning tube kit is needed for bleach-cleaning the instrument,
as described in “Bleach-Cleaning” on page 7-5.
Sample Tube Adapters
The instrument includes the following sample tube adapters, for use as shown in “Analyzing a
Sample” on page 4-7.
Table 2-5: Sample Tube Adapters
Peristaltic Pump Tube Assembly
As part of routine yearly preventive maintenance, the HM2’s peristaltic pump tube must be
inspected, and replaced if needed (see “Periodic Maintenance” on page 7-2). The HM2 is shipped
with one replacement peristaltic pump tube.
Tube Adapter Part Number Sample Tube Size
3–5 ml Tube Adapter 750-9008 3–5 ml
Microtainer Tube Adapter 750-9009 1–2 ml
Vacutainer Adapter 750-9014 400 µl
Control Vial Adapter 750-9010 2 ml control vial
2-10 System Overview and Installation
Thermal Paper Roll
Two thermal paper rolls are included for the instrument’s internal printer, to provide quick, conve-
nient printed results.
2.1.6 Subsystems
The VetScan HM2 has two primary subsystems.
■ Fluidic system: Performs sampling, diluting, mixing, lysing, and rinsing functions.
Generates the regulated vacuum used for moving cells through the aperture during the
counting process.
■ Data processing system: Counts, measures, and calculates blood parameters, generates
and stores numerical results and histograms.
Note: Thermal paper printouts only last about a year. If you need to keep
a record for longer than a year, make a photocopy of the printout.
Diluent
Lyse
Cleaner
Waste Rinse reagent
Diluent solution Waste container
Lyse
so
lutio
n
Cle
aner
so
lutio
n
Rin
se
reag
ent
System Overview and Installation 2-11
2.1.7 Menu/Command Listing
The following charts outline the instrument’s menu functions and commands.
Information / Help Displays help for the current screen.
MENU
Analysis / Measurement
1 – Repeat last sample Repeats last sample tested (HM2
2 – Measure blank Performs blank measurement.
assigns new sample ID, all other
3 – Prediluted mode Enters automatic calculation for 1:5 externally diluted sample (“1:5” appears in upper RH screen corner).
4 – WBC only Analyzes WBC only with next test.
PT.ID
Sample ID HM2 assigns automatically (cannot
Opens dialog for entering patient information.
Doctor
Species
Patient ID
Name
Age
Sex
LIMITS Displays reference ranges for selected species (can be modified).
patient information is unchanged).
be modified).
5 – Needle Height Setting Adjusts sampling depth.
6 – Lyse Volume Adjusts lyse reagent volumeby +/– 0.2 mL.
2-12 System Overview and Installation
Database
MENU 1 – Go to specified record Selects one record by time/date,
2 – Selection
3 – Change sort order
4 – Manage selected records
5 – View external Reads stored records from USB drive
6 – Backup one day Backs up all results from a specifieddate to a USB drive (insert a USB
1 – Select by date, Selects one or more records by
2 – Select all Selects all records.
time and ID range of times/dates, sample IDs,
3 – Deselect all Deselects all records.
1 – Unsorted Lists records in the order entered
2 – Sort by time Lists records by measurement time
3 – Sort by sample ID Lists records by sample ID (highest
4 – Sort by patient ID Lists records by patient ID (highest
1 – Send selected Sends selected records to a connected
2 – Delete selected Deletes selected records from the
3 – Backup selected Saves selected records to a USB drive.
sample ID, and/or patient ID
and/or patient IDs.
to lowest).
to lowest).
(oldest to most recent).
(most recent to oldest).
computer.
instrument’s database.
(more criteria narrows search).
GRAPH
Toggle between graph and table display of selected results. TABLE
PT.ID Opens dialog for viewing/modifying patient information (sample IDand patient type cannot be changed).
Sample IDDoctorSpeciesPatient ID
records
records
records
(insert a USB drive containing savedHM2 data into one of the instrument’s
drive with sufficient space into one ofthe instrument’s USB ports).
AgeSex
Name
USB ports).
System Overview and Installation 2-13
Utilities
1 – Maintenance
2 – Calibration
1 – Cleaning
2 – Priming Primes reagent lines (use after
1 – Prime diluent Primes diluent line (green connector).
2 – Prime lyse Primes lyse line (yellow connector).
3 – Prime rinse Primes rinse line (blue connector).
4 – Prime cleaner Primes cleaner line (white connector).
5 – Prime all Primes all reagent lines.
3 – Drain chamber Drains aperture chamber (use before
4 – Reagent status Displays reagent installation date,
5 – Bleaching Bleaches internal lines (perform witheach change of reagent pack).
1 – Run Calibrator Performs calibration.
2 – View Calibration History Displays previous calibrations.
replacing reagent).
moving the instrument).
usage, and remaining life.
3 – Quality control
1 – Set QC reference ranges Updates QC ranges for current QC
1 – Whole blood Calibrates using Abaxis calibrator
2 – Prediluted blood (1:5) Calibrates using externally diluted
lot number.
2 – Run QC Runs QC analysis.
3 – View table of QC measures Displays previous QC measures.
4 – View QC diagram Displays previous QC measures as
5 – Select QC typeLevey-Jennings curve.
1 – Dog
2 – Cat
3 – Human(continued)
material.
Abaxis calibrator material to ensure proper calibration of predilutedsamples.
6 – Software upgrade Prompts for software upgrade diskand restarts system.
1 – Auto self-cleaning Runs cleaning cycle to remove build-
2 – Clean the wash head Moves wash head to cleaning position,
up from instrument’s aperture.
provides cleaning instructions.
2-14 System Overview and Installation
Utilities (continued)
5 – Settings
1 – Printer settings Dialog for viewing/modifying
3 – Date and time Dialog for setting date/time & format.
printer settings.
1 – Single user mode
2 – Multi user mode Each user has unique user name and
Dialog for setting unit preferences.
4 – Fluid sensors Enables and disables reagent sensors.
1 – Diluent & Cleaner
2 – Lyse
Calibrates reagent sensors.
3 – Rinse
4 – Calibrate sensors
Dialog for laboratory information(used in report header).
4 – User modes
password.
6 – Service Displays contact information fortechnical service.
Printing Prints selected test results.
Exit Information/Help function.
1 – Shut down Shuts off the HM2 (use if the unit
2 – Preparing for shipment Drains and shuts off the HM2 (use
will not be used for over 72 hours).
if the unit will be unused for morethan 10 days, or if it will beshipped).
2 – Customize
1 – General Settings
2 – Units
Selects Single or Multi user mode.
3 – Laboratory
Dialog for setting screensaver delay,VetScan date format, and printingcombined VetScan/HM2 results.
4 – Diagnostics
1 – Device information Shows model, S/N, software version.
2 – Statistics Displays operation statistics.
3 – Self test Tests the analyzer’s internal systems.
System Overview and Installation 2-15
2.2 Unpacking the System
Follow these directions for unpacking the HM2 analyzer from its shipping container.
Refer to the diagram at right.
1. Open the shipping carton box, and remove the
Thank-You Letter (A) and Unpacking Instruc-
tions (B). Follow the instructions on the Unpack-
ing Instructions (B).
2. Slide the accessory box (D) — located at the
back of the packaging box — up and out of the
shipping carton.
3. Pull the Foam Cap (C) off of the analyzer.
4. Place both hands in the box on opposite sides of
the analyzer, and carefully lift it out of the carton
as shown.
5. Place the instrument temporarily on a clean, level
surface that is free of animal hair, dust, and other
contaminants.
Note: Save the shipping box, accessory box, and packaging materials in
case you need to use them later.
CAUTION: Place the analyzer in upright position only. Do not place the unit
on its back, side, or top, or you could cause severe damage.
2-16 System Overview and Installation
6. Use the latch to open the side door on the unit, as
shown.
7. Inspect the unit for any visible signs of damage.
8. Remove the foam above the needle XYZ
moving assembly, and remove the tape
from the top of the counting chamber, as
shown.
9. Open the accessory box, and use this list to make sure you received all components of
the HM2 system:
❑ VetScan HM2 Analyzer
❑ HM2 Operator's Manual (this document)
❑ HM2 Quick Reference Guide
❑ HM2 analyzer external power supply and power cord
❑ HM2 mini-keyboard
❑ Four sample tube adapters
❑ HM2 reagent tubing kit (with color-coded connectors)
❑ Caps for reagent containers (with color-coded connectors)
❑ HM2 cleaning tube kit
❑ Thermal paper rolls (two)
❑ Warranty card (inside the HM2 Operator's Manual)
❑ Spare peristaltic pump tube assembly (store in a convenient location)
System Overview and Installation 2-17
2.3 Selecting a Location
The analyzer must be installed in a suitable location. A poor location can adversely affect its
performance. To ensure the accuracy and precision of the instrument, and to maintain a high level
of operational safety for lab personnel, the environmental and electrical requirements in this sec-
tion must be met. Be sure to thoroughly consider all the following requirements in selecting a per-
manent location for the analyzer.
2.3.1 Space Requirements
■ The location should be flat, level, sturdy, vibration-free, and as dust-free as possible.
■ Leave at least 20 inches (about 0.5 m) of clearance on all sides of the instrument to allow
for adequate airflow and access to connectors.
■ Maintain a minimum of 8 inches (0.2 m) behind the analyzer’s rear panel to allow for
heat dissipation and tube clearance.
■ Leave enough space for the reagent pack (see “Connecting the Reagent Pack” on
page 2-25 for details).
Note: The HM2 requires a reagent pack to operate. A reagent pack
(Abaxis Part No. 750-9000) must be ordered for installation.
Note: To start the warranty on the HM2, make sure to complete the war-
ranty card and mail it to Abaxis, Inc. within 10 days of system
installation. Customers who submit the warranty card are automat-
ically placed on the Abaxis customer list, and are entitled free of
charge to all the benefits that Abaxis offers, such as software
upgrades, on-line training, education materials, and promotions.
WARNING: MAKE SURE THE ANALYZER AND ALL ACCESSORIES ARE PROPERLY
GROUNDED. IMPROPER GROUNDING CAN CAUSE INJURY, AND WILL
VOID THE WARRANTY.
2-18 System Overview and Installation
2.3.2 Environmental Requirements
■ Make sure the location is well ventilated.
■ Make sure the location is away from devices that can emit radio frequencies, such as a
radio or TV, radar, centrifuge, X-ray device, or fan. Such devices can interfere with the
HM2’s operation.
■ Operating the HM2 at an altitude above 10,000 ft (3000 m) is not recommended.
2.3.3 Electrical Requirements
■ The HM2 is powered by a standard wall outlet, and requires a power supply of
100–240 VAC, 47–63 Hz, 2 A (this is provided with the analyzer).
■ To avoid power surges or drain, DO NOT plug the analyzer’s power supply (provided)
into a circuit that includes a centrifuge or other high-current device.
CAUTION: Make sure the location stays at an ambient temperature of 59–86 °F
(15–30 °C), and a relative humidity of 65% ± 20%. The optimal
operating temperature is 77 °F (25 °C).
CAUTION: Make sure the area is not exposed to open windows, heat sources,
air conditioners, temperature extremes, or direct sunlight.
CAUTION: Abaxis recommends using the analyzer with a surge protector
designed for a computer.
In addition, an uninterruptable power supply (UPS) is strongly rec-
ommended if the analyzer will be used in an area prone to electri-
cal surges or power outages.
An appropriate power supply is vital for the integrity of the sys-
tem.
System Overview and Installation 2-19
2.4 Installing the System
Once you’ve selected a location, install the analyzer system as follows.
2.4.1 Connecting an External Keyboard (Optional)
■ You can use an external keyboard with either a PS/2 connector or a USB connector. Con-
nect either cable to the correct port on the rear of the analyzer.
2.4.2 Connecting the Power Supply
1. Plug the power cord from the power supply into the connector on the analyzer’s rear
panel.
2. Plug the other end of the cord into a properly grounded AC outlet (110–230 VAC).
2.4.3 Installing Paper into the Built-In Printer
If you plan to print results using the analyzer’s built-in printer, install the thermal paper roll as fol-
lows.
1. Remove any tape from the roll of thermal paper, and cut the end of the roll to a point.
CAUTION: Make sure all settings are in the off position before proceeding or
before connecting the analyzer to the power supply or to any ancil-
lary devices (such as an external printer, external keyboard, or
computer).
WARNING: USE ONLY THE POWER SUPPLY PROVIDED WITH THE HM2. USING
ANY OTHER POWER SUPPLY CAN DAMAGE THE INSTRUMENT, AND
WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
Note: Store thermal paper away from direct light and humidity.
2-20 System Overview and Installation
2. Open the paper compartment by pressing
the button on top of the analyzer.
3. Insert the paper roll into the compart-
ment so that the paper unrolls beneath
the roll and toward the front of the
instrument.
4. Make sure the free end of the roll
extends out of the front of the compart-
ment.
5. Press the compartment door closed.
2.4.4 Connecting an External Printer (Optional)
1. Set up the external printer according to the instructions included with it.
2. Attach the USB printer cable to a USB port on the rear of the analyzer, and to the printer.
3. Plug the printer’s power cord into a grounded outlet.
4. Make sure the analyzer is configured for use with the printer — see “Configuring Printer
Settings” on page 3-2.
5. Turn the printer on before turning on the analyzer.
Note: When the roll is running out, a red mark appears on the paper.
Note: Any diskettes or CDs included with the printer are not required for
use with the analyzer, but should be saved in case they are needed
another time.
press to open compartment
paper must unroll in this direction
System Overview and Installation 2-21
2.4.5 Connecting a VetScan Chemistry Analyzer (Optional)
Connecting the VetScan HM2 with the VetScan Classic Chemistry Analyzer
1. Make sure the HM2 and the VetScan Classic are both turned off.
2. Connect an RS-232
null modem cable
(Abaxis Part No.
752-0006) to the serial
port on the back of the
HM2, and to the
serial (1) port on the
back of the VetScan
Classic.
3. Turn on the HM2 and
the VetScan Classic.
HM2 VetScan Classic
serial portRS-232cable
serial port
2-22 System Overview and Installation
Connecting the VetScan HM2 with the VetScan VS2 Analyzer
1. Make sure the HM2 and the VS2 are both turned off.
2. Connect a USB Type A-B
cable (Abaxis Part No.
1980-0026) to a USB Type A
port on the back of HM2, and
to a USB Type B port on the
back of the VS2.
3. Turn on the HM2 and the VS2.
2.4.6 Connecting the HM2 to a Computer
Using a Serial Cable
Connect the analyzer to a serial port on the computer using an RS-232 null modem cable, or a
serial cable and a null modem adapter.
Note: To print VetScan Chemistry Analyzer results on the HM2, the HM2
must be configured to receive data from the VetScan analyzer. For
instructions, see “Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results”
on page 4-16.
The HM2 can be connected to a computer using either a serial cable or USB Type
A-B cable. This enables you to send information from the analyzer for use by a
practice management application or other applications on the computer.
HM2 VetScan VS2
USB ports(Type A on HM2, Type B on VS2)
USBcable
System Overview and Installation 2-23
Using a USB Type A-B Cable
The analyzer can be connected to a computer using the USB Type B port on the back of the ana-
lyzer. A software driver must also be installed on the computer to enable communication with the
analyzer.
The following are required to enable the analyzer to communicate with a computer:
■ PC computer with Windows XP and a USB port
■ USB Type A-B cable (Abaxis Part No. 1980-0026)
■ Abaxis VetScan HM2 software CD, version 2.74 or higher (includes the USB driver)
Step 1 — Installing the HM2 USB Driver
1. Insert the VetScan HM2 software CD (version 2.74 or higher) into the computer’s CD
drive. The installation program then starts automatically.
2. Click Next on the first dialog box that appears on screen, then click Finish on the sec-
ond dialog. Driver installation is then complete.
Step 2 — Connecting the USB Type A-B Cable
■ Connect a USB Type A-B cable to the USB Type B port on the back of the analyzer, and
to a USB Type A port on the computer.
Step 3 — Configuring the USB Driver
The analyzer appears on the computer as a virtual communications port. You will need to use the
computer’s Device Manager to redefine that port’s properties.
1. Click Start > Control Panel.
2. Double-click System.
3. Click the Hardware tab, then click Device Manager.
4. Click the “+” mark next to Ports (COM and LPT).
5. Right-click USB Serial Port (COMx), then select Properties.
Note: Do not connect the USB cable until directed to do so.
Note: For current information on the availability of the USB driver for
other operating systems, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see
“Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
2-24 System Overview and Installation
6. Click the Port Settings tab, then click Advanced.
7. Select the appropriate COM port from the drop-down list. You may want to make sure
this port matches the COM port used by or selected in your practice management appli-
cation or other software.
8. Click OK.
9. If a warning states that this modification may interfere with current port settings, consult
Abaxis Technical Support or your system administrator before proceeding. If no devices
are connected to the relevant port on the computer, you can confirm this message. Other-
wise, make sure this won't interfere with your computer settings.
Step 4 — Configuring the Analyzer to Communicate with a PC
You can now configure the analyzer to communicate with an interfaced practice management soft-
ware application that runs on the computer. Make sure the selected port for the application matches
the port selected in the above procedure. For detailed configuration information, see “General Set-
tings” on page 3-9.
2.4.7 Connecting the Reagent Pack
When installing the analyzer in its permanent location, place the reagent pack according to these
guidelines.
■ Place the reagent pack near the analyzer, either beside or behind the instrument.
■ For best results, place the reagent pack at the same level as the analyzer. If you have to
place the reagent pack on a lower level, make sure that it is no more than 30 inches
(0.75 m) below the level of the analyzer’s reagent inlets, as measured from the bottom of
the reagent pack to the bottom of the analyzer.
Note: During transportation, microbubbles can form in the reagent solu-
tions. These bubbles will affect test results. Before connecting a
reagent pack to the analyzer, allow the pack to stand undisturbed
for 24 to 36 hours to eliminate any bubbles.
CAUTION: If the analyzer has been kept at a temperature below 50 ºF (10 ºC),
allow it to sit for an hour at the correct operating temperature
(59–86 °F, 15–30 °C) before using it.
System Overview and Installation 2-25
Connect the reagent pack as follows.
1. Open the plastic bag located in the accessory box, and take out the five color-coded
reagent tubes and caps with drop-down tubes.
2. Locate the color-coded reagent intake valves on the back
of the instrument, as shown.
❑ Green = Diluent
❑ Yellow = Lyse
❑ Blue: = Cleaner
❑ Red = Waste
❑ White = Rinse
3. Remove the protective caps from the intake valves. Save the caps for later use.
4. Insert the capped ends of the reagent tubes into the corresponding color-coded reagent
intake valves. Finger-tighten the colored caps securely.
CAUTION: Do not overtighten the caps, or you could damage the threads on the connectors.
This will cause the reagents to leak and damage the instrument.
WARNING: DO NOT PLACE THE REAGENT PACK ABOVE THE ANALYZER (SUCH
AS ON A SHELF).
DO NOT DROP THE REAGENT PACK — THIS CAN CAUSE MICROBUB-
BLES TO FORM.
CAUTION: When working with the reagent tubing, make sure the tubing does
not become pinched or kinked and is not trapped between or
beneath objects. The reagents must be able to flow through the
tubes freely and without obstruction, or the instrument will not
operate properly.
Note: The protective valve caps will be needed whenever the analyzer is
moved, to prevent reagents from leaking.
2-26 System Overview and Installation
5. Open the reagent pack box. Open each reagent container (lyse, rinse, cleaner, and dilu-
ent) by unscrewing the container caps.
6. Re-cap each container using the bottle cap with the appropriate color-coded connector
and drop-down tube.
7. Using the color codes as guides, attach the free end of each reagent tube to the bottle cap
connector on the appropriate container. Press each tube onto its connector as far as it will
go.
Note: Be sure to save the original reagent caps so you can re-cap the con-
tainers when the reagent pack is used up.
Note: The analyzer is shipped with a flexible waste container, to be used
with the first reagent pack. The diluent bottle included with each
reagent pack is designed to be used as the waste container for the
subsequent reagent pack.
CAUTION: Make sure the small air vent on each container cap is not blocked,
and that free airflow is maintained at all times.
Do not touch the drop-down tubes with your hands, or you could
contaminate the reagents. If you must handle the drop-down tubes,
be sure to wear gloves.
CAUTION: Make sure each tube runs from the reagent intake valve to its corre-
sponding reagent bottle. Use the color codes as guides. If the tubes
are not connected correctly, the instrument will not produce accu-
rate results.
If you let the reagent tubes pass through the openings on the
reagent pack, make sure the top of the reagent pack does not kink
or pinch the tubing.
System Overview and Installation 2-27
2.5 Turning the Analyzer On and Off
2.5.1 Turning the Analyzer On
1. If you have an external printer or a computer connected to the analyzer, turn on the
power to the printer/computer before starting the analyzer.
2. Turn on the analyzer on using the power switch on
the upper left of its rear panel. The on position is
marked by the I symbol.
The analyzer then displays several screens while it
runs its software start-up procedure.
2.5.2 Turning the Analyzer Off
CAUTION: If the analyzer has been kept at a temperature below 50 ºF (10 ºC),
allow it to sit for an hour at the correct operating temperature
(59–86 °F, 15–30 °C) before using it.
Note: To initialize the analyzer, see “Initializing the VetScan HM2” on
page 2-31.
CAUTION: Never switch the analyzer by simply pressing the power switch on
the rear panel, unless an emergency exists, or if you will turn the
instrument on again in only a few minutes.
CAUTION: When the analyzer is shut down properly as described below, it
rinses its fluidic system. Since the analyzer uses isotonic saline
solution, the salt from the solution may not be rinsed out properly if
you simply turn off the power. This could lead to salt build-up in the
system. Therefore, always follow the instructions in this section
when turning off the analyzer.
CAUTION: If an emergency occurs, turn off the analyzer using the power
switch on the back of the instrument, and unplug the power cord
from its outlet.
2-28 System Overview and Installation
If the Analyzer Will Not Be Used for 72 Hours or More
Shut down the instrument as follows.
1. Press the Exit key on the front panel.
2. Select Shut down, then press the soft-
function key when asked to confirm.
The analyzer displays a message and sounds a
tone when it’s safe to shut it off.
3. Turn off the analyzer using the power switch on
the rear panel. The off position is marked by the
O symbol.
If the Analyzer Will Not Be Used for 10 Days Or More, or Will Be Shipped
Shut down and prepare the instrument as follows. You will need the cleaning tube kit (shown on
page 2-10) and 100 ml of distilled water for this procedure.
1. Press the Exit key on the front panel.
2. Select Preparing for shipment, then press the
soft-function key when asked to con-
firm.
The display then shows “Pneumatic system is
initializing. Please wait.”
3. Follow the instructions that appear on the dis-
play. When prompted, remove the four reagent
tubing connectors (green, yellow, blue, and
white) from the reagent tubing intake valves,
but leave the waste tubing connected.
Note: If you perform fewer than ten CBC samples a week, Abaxis strongly
recommends that you shut down the analyzer once a week. This
will prevent salt from building up in the system, and increase the
instrument’s efficiency.
YES
YES
System Overview and Installation 2-29
4. When prompted, connect the cleaning tube kit to the reagent
connectors, as shown.
5. Submerge the free end in a bottle containing at least 100ml of
distilled water.
6. Press . The analyzer then flushes any remaining reagents
into the waste container.
7. When prompted, remove the cleaning tube kit.
Press .
8. When the analyzer displays “Now it is safe to turn off the instrument,” turn off the ana-
lyzer using the power switch on its rear panel.
9. Disconnect the waste tubing. The analyzer is now ready for shipment or extended non-
use.
10. If you need to prepare the analyzer for shipment, continue with the instructions in “Pre-
paring the Analyzer for Shipment” on page 9-10.
ACCEPT
ACCEPT
2-30 System Overview and Installation
2.6 Initializing the VetScan HM2
Use this procedure to initialize the HM2 after installation, or after it has been turned back on after
an extended shut-down.
1. Press the Measurement/Analysis key. The
analyzer then initializes its pneumatic system
and runs a blank measurement. When the pro-
cess is complete, the instrument displays the
result of the blank measurement.
2. When the blank measurement is OK, press
to accept the results.
The analyzer then displays a sample measure-
ment screen, as shown, and is now ready to per-
form an analysis.
3. Verify the HM2’s system settings, and make any needed changes — see “Configuring
the VetScan HM2” on page 3-1.
4. If you are installing a new system, or have moved the analyzer or its reagent pack to new
locations, recalibrate the fluid sensors to maximize the number of tests performed per
reagent pack on your system — see “Fluid Sensor Settings” on page 3-16.
5. Allow the analyzer and its reagents to fully reach room temperature (usually about five
minutes) before beginning an analysis. This will avoid damage from condensation
caused by rapid temperature changes, as well as interference and background “noise”
caused by microbubbles in the reagents during installation.
Note: You will be notified if the blank does not fall within specifications
(these are listed on page 4-6). If this occurs, run one to three clean-
ing cycles (see “Cleaning the Aperture” on page 7-5), and re-run
the blank as needed until it falls in range (no flags, and “Blank
OK” is displayed on the screen). If the problem persists, call
Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Technical Sup-
port” on page 1-2.
ACCEPT
System Overview and Installation 2-31
2.7 Standby Mode
The analyzer automatically enters a power-saving
standby mode after a period of standing idle. When in
standby mode, the analyzer displays a “Ready” screen as
shown at right, with rotating information at the bottom of
the screen showing available user functions.
The analyzer can remain in standby for up to 72 hours.
To bring the analyzer out of standby, simply press any key.
2-32 System Overview and Installation
Section 3
Configuring the VetScan HM2This section describes how to configure the VetScan HM2 for optimalperformance and to meet your particular lab requirements.
Section Contents
3.1 Printer Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.1.1 Configuring Printer Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.1.2 Printout Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3.1.3 Troubleshooting Printer Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
3.2 Operational Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
3.2.1 General Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
3.2.2 Unit Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
3.2.3 Laboratory Information Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
3.2.4 User Mode Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
3.3 Date and Time Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
3.4 Fluid Sensor Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16
Configuring the VetScan HM2 3-1
3.1 Printer Settings
3.1.1 Configuring Printer Settings
Before using a printer, whether the analyzer’s built-in printer or an external printer, you must con-
figure the analyzer for the printer and its requirements, as follows.
1. Press the key, then select Settings.
2. Select Printer settings.
3. Use the and keys to set Printer to the
printer you’ll use (the default is Seiko LPTH245
Built in).
4. Press the soft key to accept the printer set-
tings.
The following table lists the available printer selections, along with the printer language and spe-
cific printer models corresponding to each.
Table 3-1: Compatible Printers
Printer Selection Printer Language Supported Printer Models
Seiko LPTH245 Built in Special printer lan-guage
HM2 built-in thermal printer
Epson ESC/P Raster Epson ESC/P Raster Epson Stylus series (select models onlya)
a. For more information, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
Canon BJC in 9-pin mode, Canon BJC
Canon BJC Canon BJ and BJC series (select models onlya)
Canon i 70 Canon Canon i series (select models onlya)
Seiko DPU414 Special printer lan-guage
Seiko DPU414 printer
Epson 24-pin in 9-pin mode, Epson 24-pin
ESC/P2 Epson 24-pin dot matrix series (LQ-580, Epson 440, etc.)
Epson 9-pin ESC/P Epson 9-pin dot matrix series (FX-980, etc.)
HP LaserJet PCL4 HP LaserJet series and compatibles (LJ1100, etc.)
HP DeskJet PCL4 HP DeskJet series (select models onlya)
ACCEPT
3-2 Configuring the VetScan HM2
5. Configure the remaining settings as follows.
❑ Use the and keys to change the settings, and the keypad or external
keyboard to enter text or numbers.
❑ Use the and soft keys and the and keys to move
through the settings.
❑ Use and to move between page of settings.
■ When using the analyzer's built-in printer, these settings are recommended:
❑ Printout format: Narrow full (with
histograms)
❑ Table format: Normal or Narrow
❑ Printer cable: COM2
❑ Paper: RollPaper
❑ Units: inch or cm
❑ Paper size: 2.24 x 50.00
❑ Left margin: 0.00
❑ Top margin: 0.00
❑ Printing mode: Normal
❑ Physical margin: Normal
❑ One result per page: No
❑ Rollpaper: Yes
❑ Vertical spacing: 0.50
Note: Although the HM2 can be connected to any printer compatible with
any of the above printer languages, printout sizes and fonts may
vary depending on manufacturer and printer settings. Abaxis car-
ries printers that have been tested and validated specifically for use
with the HM2. For best results, Abaxis highly recommends using
only printers validated by Abaxis. For a current list and further
information, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer
and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
PGUP PGDN
PGUP PGDN
Configuring the VetScan HM2 3-3
❑ Autoprint: Yes (Yes prints results automatically after each analysis; No
requires you to press the Print key .)
❑ Limits format: L Graph H
❑ Print flags: Yes
❑ Print warning flags: Yes
❑ Clogging report: No
❑ Serial number on result: Yes
■ When using an external printer, the following default settings are recommended:
❑ Printout format: Full with histograms
❑ Printer cable: USB
❑ Paper: select as appropriate for your printer (Note: Never select Rollpaper
for an HP LaserJet.)
❑ Left and top margins: 1.00
❑ Rollpaper: No (especially for HP LaserJets)
6. Configure any other settings as needed. See Table 3-2 for a complete list.
Table 3-2: Printer Settings
Setting Description
Printer Printer used with the HM2 — see Table 3-1 on page 3-2.
Printout format Overall format used for printouts. Available selections depend on the selected Printer. (See page 3-6 for examples.)
Table format Printed width of tables included in the printouts.
Printer cable Interface used for an external printer: USB.
Paper Paper type used in the selected Printer.
UnitsPaper sizeLeft marginTop margin
Default units of measure, paper size, and print margins for the selected Paper. These may be customized when using a non-standard paper.Left and top margins control the position of printed results on the page.
Printing mode Overall printout size (Mini, Small, Normal, Enhanced, or Large), width (Wide or Narrow), and print speed (Fast). The available modes depend on the selected Printer.
Physical margin Margin correction for printers that have smaller printable areas than usual. Use Normal unless the right edge of the printed text is missing or appears in the next line.
3-4 Configuring the VetScan HM2
7. Press the soft key to accept the settings.
One result per page Select Yes to print each analysis on a separate page.
Rollpaper Select Yes if using the built-in printer.
Vertical spacing The vertical distance between printed results when multiple reports are printed on each page.
Autoprint Select Yes to print all results automatically after each analysis.
Limits format The format for printing reference ranges:• To print numeric values, select the displayed range (for example,
[4.51…5.64]).• None prints no range values.• Graphical prints a graph showing where the results falls within the range.• L-H Graph prints the low and high limits of the range, followed by a graph
showing where the result falls within the range.• Graph L-H prints a graph showing where the result falls within the range,
followed by the low and high limits of the range.• L Graph H prints the low limit of the range, a graph showing where the
result falls within the range, and the high limit of the range.
Print flags Select Yes to include in the printout any measured values that fell outside the reference range, as well as any errors during analysis.
Print warning flags Select Yes to include all warning flags in the printouts.
Clogging report Select Yes to include information on aperture clogging in all printouts.
Serial number on result
Select Yes to include the analyzer’s serial number in all printouts.
Table 3-2: Printer Settings (Continued)
Setting Description
ACCEPT
Configuring the VetScan HM2 3-5
3.1.2 Printout Examples
Thermal Paper Printout
Patient information
Patient species
Report header
Report dateTest date & time(dates and timesassignedautomatically)
HM2 serial number
Sample ID (assignedautomatically)
Test parameters
Test result units
Test results
Reference ranges
lowerlimit
shows location of
upperlimit
test results withinreference range limits
WBC histogram
RBC histogram
PLT histogram
3-6 Configuring the VetScan HM2
8 x 11.5 Letter Printout
Patient
Report date
Sample ID(assigned automatically)
Test
Test result
Reference ranges
lowerlimit
shows location of
upperlimit
test results withinreference range limits
Patientinformation
Reportheader
information
(assignedPatient
speciesautomatically)
and HM2serial number
parameters
Test results
units
WBC histogram
RBC histogram
PLT histogram
Configuring the VetScan HM2 3-7
3.1.3 Troubleshooting Printer Settings
Use this table to solve problems related to printer settings.
Table 3-3: Troubleshooting Printer Settings
Problem Possible Causes / Solutions
Incorrect characters appear on the printout. Selected printer type does not match your printer. Select the correct type in Printer.
Right side of the printed report is missing or appears on the next line.
• Decrease the Left margin and Top margin.• Try using a smaller Printout format.
Printed report is too small, with excess space on the paper.
Try using a larger Printout format.
End of the printout appears on the next page. • Enter the correct Paper size.• Try decreasing the Left margin and Top margin.
Another patient report could fit on the page. • Enter the correct Paper size.• Try increasing the Left margin, Top margin, and
Vertical spacing.
Printed result is not centered horizontally. Modify the Left margin.
Printed result is not centered vertically. Modify the Top margin.
Results are printed too close together or too far apart.
Modify the Vertical spacing.
3-8 Configuring the VetScan HM2
3.2 Operational Settings
Use the Customize menu to set the language and date format used by the HM2, along with the
screensaver delay, and the date range used for printing combined results from the HM2 and a con-
nected VetScan analyzer.
3.2.1 General Settings
1. Press the Utilities key .
2. Select Settings.
3. Select Customize.
4. Select General Settings.
Configuring the VetScan HM2 3-9
5. Configure the settings as needed.
■ Use the and keys to move through
the settings.
■ Use the and keys to change the set-
tings, and the keypad or an external key-
board to enter text or numbers.
■ Use the on-screen and
soft keys to move between pages of set-
tings.
Table 3-4 describes the available settings.
Table 3-4: General Settings
Screensaver wait time 0 to 30 minutes (0 = screensaver off).
Language English. International customers: please contact your distributor for information about available languages.
PC Link Offline, USB, Baud rate (150 to 115200). Protocol used by the ana-lyzer to communicate with a connected computer.– If the analyzer is not connected to a computer, choose Offline.– If the analyzer is connected to a computer using a USB cable, choose USB.– If the analyzer is connected to a computer through serial cable, 9600 is correct for most cases, or you can contact Abaxis Technical Support for the correct setting — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
Serial Protocol Version 1.0, 1.7, 2.20, 2.23, 3.0, or 3.1. Protocol versions used by practice management software to interface with the analyzer. Contact Abaxis Technical Support (see page 1-2) or your practice management soft-ware provider for the proper selection. (Newer versions have higher numbers.)
Serial’s Decimal Dot Dot (period), slash, comma, or lang def (as defined by language).
VSx Link Offline, USB, or RS232. Protocol used by the HM2 to communicate with a connected VetScan Classic or VS2 for combining results.– If the HM2 is not connected to a VetScan Classic or VS2, choose Offline.– If the HM2 is connected to a VetScan VS2 through a USB cable, choose USB.– If the HM2 is connected to VetScan Classic through a serial cable, choose RS232.
Date format of VetScan When printing combined HM2 and VetScan results, the date format used by the VetScan: MM/DD/YY or DD/MM/YY (DD = date, MM = month, YY = year). Set both instruments to the same format.
PGUP PGDN
3-10 Configuring the VetScan HM2
6. Press the soft key to accept the settings.
3.2.2 Unit Settings
Use the Units menu to set the measurement units the HM2 will use.
1. Press the Utilities key .
2. Select Settings.
3. Select Customize.
4. Select Units.
VetScan-HM2 combining within
365, 90, 60, 30, 15, 8, 5, 3, 1 day, Same day, Don’t care. When print-ing combined results from the HM2 and VetScan Classic or VS2, defines the time range within which HM2 and VetScan hematology results will be paired: HM2 Patient ID number is paired with the Patient Number on the VetScan Classic, or with the Sample ID on the VS2.For example, if the clinic uses the same patient ID numbers each day, so that a given number may be assigned to more than one patient, select Same day to avoid inadvertently pairing results from different patients. Chemistry and hematology results using the same patient ID number will then only be paired if run in the same day.If this is not a requirement, use Don’t care. The HM2 then matches the most recent results on the VetScan Classic or VS2.
Table 3-4: General Settings (Continued)
ACCEPT
Configuring the VetScan HM2 3-11
5. Set the units as needed:
■ Use the and keys to select a unit.
■ Use the and keys to select a setting
for that unit.
Table 3-5 lists the available unit settings.
6. Press the soft-key to save the settings.
3.2.3 Laboratory Information Settings
Enter your clinic or laboratory information as follows, to be printed automatically on report head-
ers. You can also use this procedure to edit or change this information.
1. Press the Utilities key .
2. Select Settings.
3. Select Customize.
Table 3-5: Unit Settings
Count unit cells/liter (cells/l), cells/µl (cells/µl). Prec. displays a more pre-cise value.
HGB unit grams/liter (g/l), grams/deciliter (g/dl), millimols/liter (mmol/l)
PCT, HCT unit percentage (%), absolute (abs)
RDW, PDW mode standard deviation (sd), coefficient of variation (cv)
ACCEPT
3-12 Configuring the VetScan HM2
4. Select Laboratory.
5. Enter the name and address of your clinic or
laboratory. Press OK to move to the next line.
You can enter up to 40 characters in each line.
6. Press to accept the setting.
3.2.4 User Mode Settings
If you want to require users to log in and enter passwords to use the HM2, and to be able to track
individual usage of the unit, you can enable the HM2’s Multi user mode. This will require each
user to have a unique user ID and password.
1. Press the Utilities key .
2. Select Settings.
Note: In general, Single user mode is recommended unless the specific
features enabled by Multi user mode are required.
ACCEPT
Configuring the VetScan HM2 3-13
3. Select Customize.
4. Select User modes.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to enable
Multi user mode, to add or modify users, or to
change a user’s password.
CAUTION: Write down user names and passwords and store them in a secure
location. If this information is lost, you will need to contact Abaxis
Technical Support (see page 1-2) to reset the HM2.
3-14 Configuring the VetScan HM2
3.3 Date and Time Settings
The date and time of each analysis is stored with the results. Use the Date and Time menu to set the
HM2’s built-in clock and calendar, and the format used to display the date.
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Settings.
2. Select Date and time.
3. Select Set date and time.
4. Type in the date and time (use the and
keys to select AM or PM), then press .
5. Select formats for displaying the date (item 2, 3,
or 4) and time (item 5 or 6), then press .
6. Press to accept the settings.
ACCEPT
EXIT
ACCEPT
Configuring the VetScan HM2 3-15
3.4 Fluid Sensor Settings
The fluid sensors allow the HM2 to monitor reagent consumption correctly. To maximize the life
of the reagent pack, recalibrate the fluid sensors in the following situations:
■ on installation
■ when the instrument is moved to a new location
■ if the reagent pack is moved relative to the instrument (changed distance or height of the
pack relative to the instrument)
Recalibrate the fluid sensors as follows.
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Settings.
2. Select Fluid Sensors.
3. Make sure all fluid sensors are on (checked).
To turn on a sensor, select it and press OK so
that its box is checked.
4. If a message indicates that one or more fluid
sensors are disabled, turn those sensors on, then
select Calibrate sensors.
3-16 Configuring the VetScan HM2
Section 4
Test Procedure and Interpreting ResultsThis section describes how to prepare and analyze samples with theHM2, as well as how to interpret and print results.
Section Contents
4.1 Collecting and Preparing Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4.1.1 Sample Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4.1.2 Storing Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4.2 Before Performing an Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.2.1 Daily Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.2.2 Check Reagent Status and Tubing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.2.3 Run a Blank Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4.3 Analyzing a Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
4.4 Adjusting the Needle Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
4.5 Adjusting the Lyse Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
4.6 Interpreting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4.6.1 CBC Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4.6.2 Histograms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4.7 Printing and Exporting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4.7.1 Printing Saved Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4.7.2 Exporting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4.8 Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4.8.1 Combining Previously Saved Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4.8.2 Combining Results During Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
4.8.3 Printout Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
4.9 Using Prediluted Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
4.10 Interpreting CBC Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-1
4.1 Collecting and Preparing Samples
Because sample integrity is essential for accurate test results, always follow the optimal sample
collection and proper sample handling techniques described in this section.
4.1.1 Sample Quality
The quality of the blood sample will directly affect the quality of the analysis results. Follow the
recommendations below for optimal results.
■ Selecting an anti-coagulant: Use manufactured EDTA lavender-top tubes for blood
storage.
■ Discarding the first portion of the blood sample: To prevent hair and skin pieces from
getting into the sample, discard the first few drops of blood after collection.
■ Filling blood tubes correctly:
❑ Each tube must be filled at least half full to avoid inaccuracy due to improper dilu-
tion of EDTA.
❑ When using homemade containers pre-dosed with EDTA, the final concentration of
EDTA in the blood should not exceed 3 mg/ml.
■ Mixing samples thoroughly:
❑ Even the most minute blood clots can adversely affect results. To avoid clotting,
thoroughly mix each sample immediately after filling the tube by gently inverting
the filled EDTA sample tube by hand 10 to 15 times.
❑ If testing is delayed and the sample was placed on a rocker, be sure to mix it thor-
oughly again before analysis by gently inverting the tube 10 to 15 times. This
ensures the homogeneity of the sample.
■ Discarding clotted samples: Before analysis, visually check all samples for clots while
rocking the sample tube in your fingers. This is especially important for difficult sample
draws. If you suspect a clot, swirl a wooden applicator stick through the sample: if you
see clots or fibrin strands, discard the sample, and collect a fresh sample.
Note: For multiple tube draws, always fill in this order: 1) red top,
2) green top, 3) lavender top.
CAUTION: Use tubes containing EDTA only for CBC analysis.
4-2 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
4.1.2 Storing Samples
Analysis is best performed with a fresh, anti-coagulated sample. Always use proper sample han-
dling technique, and make sure the sample is well mixed. If analysis is to take place more than
4 hours after the sample is obtained, refrigerate the sample at 36–46 ºF (2–8 ºC), and test the sam-
ple within 8 hours.
Note: Do not shake samples! Doing so can damage the blood cells, and
can form microbubbles that will cause inaccurate results.
Note: Never use a rocker for samples smaller than 1.0 ml.
Note: Rockers do not mix samples. Each sample must be inverted by hand
10 to 15 times immediately after drawing, and then 10 to 15 times
again before running the sample.
Note: Feline samples frequently demonstrate platelet aggregation
(clumps). Vortex mixing for up to 30 seconds can disaggregate
these clumps with no adverse effect on the sample. Some practitio-
ners find that collecting blood from the medial saphenous vein
using a vacutainer minimizes platelet clumping.
Note: When analyzing a refrigerated sample, be sure to warm the sample
to room temperature before analysis. Roll the sample tube between
your palms to speed up warming. This also helps mix the sample. If
the sample is not mixed correctly, PLTs and WBCs can form
clumps, causing erroneous results. Mix the sample thoroughly
again before analysis.
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-3
4.2 Before Performing an Analysis
The HM2 automatically goes into standby mode after a period of standing idle. Press any button to
bring the analyzer out of standby.
4.2.1 Daily Cleaning
1. Wipe up any spills on the sample rotor.
2. Keep the instrument and immediate sur-
roundings as clean as possible.
4.2.2 Check Reagent Status and Tubing
1. Check the status of the reagent pack to make sure enough reagent is available for sample
analysis for the day — see “Viewing Status Information” on page 8-2.
If any reagent is at a level of 10% or less, change the reagent pack soon to ensure reliable
results. For instructions, see “Changing the Reagent Pack” on page 7-8.
2. Inspect the reagent tubes and connections to make sure the reagents can flow freely.
Make sure the tubes are not pinched, kinked, or trapped between or beneath objects.
CAUTION: If the analyzer has been kept at a temperature below 50 °F (10 °C),
such as during shipment or a power failure, allow it to stand for an
hour at the correct operating temperature before turning it on —
see “Environmental Requirements” on page 2-19.
Note: Each day, before analyzing samples, perform the procedures in this
section to make sure the instrument is in proper operating condi-
tion.
Sample rotor
Sample tubeadapter
4-4 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
3. Check the reagent lines (except the red waste line) for bubbles or air gaps. If any exist,
prime the affected tubes as follows.
a. Press the Utilities key , then select Maintenance.
b. Select Priming.
c. Select the line to prime.
d. Repeat as needed until all air gaps
are removed.
4.2.3 Run a Blank Measurement
A blank measurement checks the cleanliness of the HM2’s fluidic system, and is used to establish a
baseline for sample measurements. The results of a blank are used to determine if the background
will affect the test results, and whether the HM2 needs cleaning or maintenance.
1. If “BLANK needed” appears on the screensaver,
press the Measurement/Analysis key .
The HM2 then runs a blank measurement, and dis-
plays the results.
Note: Air gaps in the waste line (red) are normal.
Note: A blank must be run every 12 hours. Each blank measurement
remains valid for 12 hours of continuous operation, after which the
HM2 displays “BLANK needed,” and a new blank must be run.
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-5
2. Check the displayed results, and make sure the following CBC parameters fall within the
ranges shown for an acceptable blank:
Table 4-1: Acceptable Blank Parameters
■ If the values are within the allowed ranges: proceed to step 3, below.
■ If the values are not within the allowed ranges (the message “UNSUCCESSFUL
BLANK MEASURE” is displayed):
a. Repeat the measurement by pressing the
soft key.
b. If the new results are still above the accept-
able ranges, run one to three cleaning
cycles (see “Cleaning the Aperture” on
page 7-5), and re-run the blank (up to sev-
eral times).
c. If the results still do not fall within the acceptable range, run a bleach-clean-
ing — see “Bleach-Cleaning” on page 7-5.
d. If the problem persists, call Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and
Technical Support” on page 1-2.
3. When the blank measurement is OK, press to
accept the results. The HM2 is then ready for analy-
sis.
Measurement Allowed range
WBC 0.0 to 0.5x103 cells/µl
RBC 0.0 to 0.05x106 cells/µl
PLT 0 to 25x103 cells/µl
HGB 0 to 10 g/l
Note: To run a blank measurement other than at startup (such as for trou-
bleshooting), press the Measurement/Analysis key , then
press the soft key, then select Measure blank.
REPEAT
ACCEPT
MENU
4-6 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
4.3 Analyzing a Sample
Use this general procedure to analyze samples with the HM2.
1. Prepare a well-mixed, EDTA-preserved sample — see “Collecting and Preparing Sam-
ples” on page 4-2 for details.
2. Select the appropriate sample tube adapter (see below), and place the adapter into the
sampling rotor.
3. Press the Measurement/Analysis key , and
select PT.ID.
Tube adapter (3 ml) Microtube adapter Controls/calibrator adapter
Vacutainer adapter
Note: Sponge disks are provided
for the microtube adapter. If
you have a very “short”
sample, you can put the
sponge disk into the micro-
tube adapter to raise the
tube height.
Sponge plate for microtainer adapter
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-7
4. Enter the species: view the available profiles using the and keys. Press the keypad
OK key to move to the next field.
5. Enter other patient identification data as indicated.
■ Use the OK key and the and keys to move through the settings.
■ Use the and keys to change the settings, and the keypad or external keyboard
to enter text or numbers.
■ Press the soft key to accept the settings.
6. Gently mix the sample by inverting the tube 10 to 15
times. Then remove the cap from the tube and place
the tube into the sample adaptor as shown at right.
7. Begin analysis by pressing the Start button .
Analysis is complete in less than three minutes. All
results and histograms are automatically saved in the
HM2’s database.
Note: When using the HM2 in
conjunction with the
VetScan Classic, make sure
the Patient ID number on
the HM2 is the same as the
Patient Number on the
VetScan Classic.
When using the HM2 with the VetScan VS2, make sure the Patient
ID number on the HM2 is the same as the Sample ID on the VS2.
Otherwise, the results will not print together.
Note: Make sure the species for the sample — displayed in the upper
right corner of the screen — is correct. The sample will be pro-
cessed and tested according to the species selected.
ACCEPT
4-8 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
8. When analysis is complete, a results screen dis-
plays all measured and calculated parameters as
well as the WBC, RBC, and PLT histograms:
You can view the results as follows:
■ Use the and soft keys to move through the results.
■ If the HM2 is not set to print results automatically,
press the Print key to print the results.
(See “Printing and Exporting Results” on page 4-15
for details.)
Results falling outside of the specified species reference
range are marked as follows:
■ Results higher than the species reference range
are highlighted in black and marked with a plus
sign (+).
■ Results falling below the reference range are
highlighted and marked with a minus sign (-).
■ Warnings and errors flags are indicated using upper- and lower-case letters at the bot-
tom.
See “Troubleshooting” on page 9-1 for details about identifying and resolving any identified flags.
For details on results and interpretation, see “Interpreting Results” on page 4-12.
PREV NEXT
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-9
4.4 Adjusting the Needle HeightAdjust the HM2’s needle height when you switch from one tube type to another, when you run a
control, or when the sample volume is low enough to require it.
1. Press the Measurement/Analysis key , then press the soft key.
2. Press Needle Height Setting repeatedly to
cycle through the available needle heights:
A:-2mm, B: 0mm, C: 5mm, D: 10mm, and
E: 15mm.
3. When the correct needle height is displayed,
press .
Use this table and diagram as a guide to appropriate needle height settings.
.
Table 5: Needle Heights
Setting and Needle Height Suitable Situations
A:-2mm Measuring control or short sample
B: 0mm Default setting
C: 5mm Using a false-bottom tube
D: 10mm Have plenty of blood sample
E: 15mm Have plenty of blood sample
MENU
ACCEPT
E: 15 mm
D: 10 mm
C: 5 mm
B: 0 mm
A: –2 mm~3–4 mm
4-10 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
4.5 Adjusting the Lyse Volume
The lyse volume generally only needs adjustment if a histogram indicates over- or under-lysing
(this is relatively rare). If you receive such a histogram, contact Abaxis Technical Support before
adjusting the lyse volume — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2. When needed,
adjust the lyse volume as follows.
1. Press the Measurement/Analysis key , then press the soft key.
2. Press Lyse Volume or OK on the keypad
repeatedly to cycle through the available vol-
umes:
■ 0.50 ml
■ 0.50+0.1 ml
■ 0.50+0.2 ml
■ 0.50-0.1 ml
■ 0.50-0.2 ml
3. When the correct volume is displayed, press .
MENU
ACCEPT
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-11
4.6 Interpreting Results
The HM2 produces a printed report containing the patient ID, measurement data, numeric results
with flags (if any), and histograms showing the three different cell populations.
The following graphic shows a set of typical results and histograms:
4-12 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
4.6.1 CBC Parameters
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) parameters included in the results are useful for assessing the
overall health of the patient, as well as identifying and monitoring certain disease states.
For details about CBC parameters and associated clinical indications, see “Interpreting CBC
Parameters” on page 4-23.
4.6.2 Histograms
Histograms display population distributions of each cell type: leukocytes (white blood cells —
WBC), erythrocytes (red blood cells — RBC) and thrombocytes (platelets — PLT). The histo-
grams show the relative frequency (percentage) of cells on the vertical (Y) axis, and cell volume in
femtoliters (fl) on the horizontal (X) axis.
Histograms enable you to quickly scan results for abnormalities, and also allow the versed practi-
tioner to derive more information about the sample than is displayed by the values alone. The fol-
lowing pages describe each of the three histograms (WBC, RBC, and PLT), and show a typical
example of each with an explanation.
White Blood Cell Histogram (WBC)
The WBC histogram shows white blood cell popula-
tions sorted by size. Cells larger than discriminator 1
are counted as WBCs. Blood includes three WBC
populations:
■ Lymphocytes (LYM), shown by the first
peak in the histogram.
■ Monocytes (MON), indicated by the area
between the second and third discriminators
(although the MON region does demon-
strate a distinctive peak of its own, this peak
is not always clear in histogram form).
■ Granulocytes (GRA), indicated by the peak to the right of the third discriminator.
Note: Always check whether the results include any warning flags — see
“Warning Indicators” on page 9-2.
LYM
discriminator 1discriminator 2discriminator 3
GRAMON
(fl)
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-13
The histogram on the previous page shows the lymphoctye cell population (LYM in the CBC
parameters) to be in the range 33–95 fl. The two other discriminators define a MON population of
95–102 fl, and a GRA population of > 102 fl (above discriminator 3).
Neutrophils normally make up the vast majority of the granulocytes, although considerable
increases in eosinophils/basophils from an allergic or parasitic condition may be identified by the
presence of an additional peak between the monocyte and primary granulocyte populations.
Red Blood Cell Histogram (RBC)
The distribution of red blood cells normally appears
as a single, steep bell curve. The presence of distinc-
tive cell populations of various sizes, such as occurs
in anemia, can be identified by the presence of more
than one peak in the RBC histogram.
This RBC histogram follows a normal distribution,
with the RDW value within the normal range, and with the histogram normalized (100% fit) to the
RBC peak.
Platelet Histogram (PLT)
The PLT histogram is a magnified portion of the
beginning of the RBC histogram.
The example PLT histogram at right follows a log-
normal distribution, with a good separation from
RBCs.
The most commonly identified anomaly in platelet histograms results from aggregated (clumped)
platelets. This appears as a flattened, lumpy histogram.
See “Veterinary Case Studies” on page D-1 for a variety of sample test results and interpretations.
Note: Measurements detected to the left of or near the first discriminator
can include nucleated RBCs, and giant or clumped platelets.
Note: Feline samples may demonstrate platelet aggregation (clumps).
Careful sample collection and vortex mixing for up to 30 seconds
can avoid or disaggregate clumps with no adverse effect on the
sample.
(fl)
4-14 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
4.7 Printing and Exporting Results
The analyzer can print a wide range of results, statistics, and settings, and prints analysis results
automatically if the Autoprint function is selected (see Table 3-2 on page 3-4). If Autoprint is not
selected, you can print by pressing the Print key .
■ To print any displayed screen, press the Print key .
For instructions on connecting and setting up an external printer, see “Printer Settings” on
page 3-2.
4.7.1 Printing Saved Results
The HM2 automatically stores the most recent 1,000 test results (record 1,001 overwrites record 1,
record 1,002 overwrites record 2, and so on). For more information about saved results, see “Data-
base Table” on page 6-2.
■ To print a single saved result, press the Database key . Use the and keys to
highlight the record, then press the Print key .
■ To print multiple saved results, press the Database key , then press the OK key to
select the records to print (as indicated by filled boxes in the SmpID column). When the
records to print are selected, press the Print key .
4.7.2 Exporting Results
You can export results through the HM2’s serial port or USB Type B port, using a special software
interface developed specially to communicate with the VetScan HM2. For availability, check with
Abaxis Technical Support (see page 1-2) or your data management system (DMS) provider.
■ To export a saved result, press the Database key , select the result, then select the
“Send Selected Records” function in the Database menu.
Note: Printouts from the integrated (thermal) printer last approximately
one year. To ensure the results remain legible for longer, photocopy
the printout. Do not expose the thermal paper printout to heat
extremes. Heat causes the printout to deteriorate more rapidly.
Note: Abaxis does not create interface programs for data management
software, but can initiate the process with your current software
provider. For further information, please contact Abaxis Technical
Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-15
4.8 Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results
The HM2 can print results from a connected VetScan Classic or VetScan VS2 analyzer. The HM2
can print the VetScan results only, or the combined VetScan and HM2 results for a given patient ID.
(For connection instructions, see “Connecting a VetScan Chemistry Analyzer (Optional)” on
page 2-22.)
Printing VetScan results requires that the HM2 be configured to receive data from the VetScan (see
“General Settings” on page 3-9). This is normally done on installation. If you have questions, con-
tact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
4.8.1 Combining Previously Saved Results
To export combined VetScan and HM2 data, first display the CBC results to be combined on the
HM2, then do the following on the VetScan:
1. Press the RECALL key. The following
appears:
2. Press ENTER. The following appears:
3. Press ENTER to select patient results. The fol-
lowing appears:
4. Press ENTER to select a single result. The fol-
lowing appears:
5. Press 2 and ENTER to transmit.
If the Patient IDs match, both results will be transmitted.
Press ENTER toRecall Results
MENU for next optionEXIT to leave.
Recall:1 Results 1-Patient results2-Patient flags ENTER to accept.
Recall:1 Single 1-Single result card2-All patients ENTER to accept.
Select:1 Print 1-Print result card2-Transmit patient ENTER to accept.
4-16 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
4.8.2 Combining Results During Testing
1. Use a USB cable to connect the printer to the HM2.
2. Turn on the printer, then turn on the HM2 and the VetScan.
3. Make sure the HM2 uses the same date format as the VS2 — see “Date and Time Set-
tings” on page 3-15.
4. Configure the HM2’s printer settings as follows (see “Printer Settings” on page 3-2 for
instructions):
■ Set Printer to HP 5650, Canon i455, or SeikoLPTH245 Built in.
■ HP 5650 only: set Printer cable to USB (this setting is made automatically for the
Canon i455 and built-in printers).
■ Set Autoprint to No.
5. Configure the HM2’s general settings as follows (see “General Settings” on page 3-9):
■ Set PC Link to Offline.
■ Set VSx Link to USB.
■ Set VetScan-HM2 combining within as needed.
6. To print a VetScan result only:
As long as no matching VetScan record exists, the VS2 results will be printed.
Note: Be sure to set VetScan-HM2 combining within the time frame so
that no matching record will exist in the HM2. For example, if a
VetScan analysis was run for a given patient 5 days ago, you would
set VetScan-HM2 combining within to 4 days or less to exclude
any earlier records.
Note: If you run VetScan and VS2 analyses for the same patient on the
same day and want to print only the VetScan result, you can change
the patient ID on the HM2 so that there will be no matching record.
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-17
7. To print combined HM2 and VS2 results:
■ Start the CBC first, and then run the chemistry rotor.
When the rotor finishes, the VS2 automatically transmits the results to the HM2,
and the HM2 prints out the combined results.
4.8.3 Printout Examples
Thermal Paper Printout — VetScan Chemistry Results
Note: The Patient ID of the HM2 record must match the Sample ID field
of the VS2 record.
Patient information Patient species
VetScan information
Test result units
Test quality
Test parameters
Reference ranges
Test results
indicators (rotor QC,interfering substances)
4-18 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
Thermal Paper Printout — HM2 + VetScan Chemistry Results
Patient informationPatient species
Report header
Report date
Test date & time(dates and timesassignedautomatically)
HM2 serial number
Sample ID (assignedautomatically)
Test parameters
Test result unitsTest results
Reference ranges
WBC histogram
RBC histogram
location of test
upperlimit
results withinreference range limits
lowerlimit
PLT histogram
VetScan results
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-19
8 x 11.5 Letter Printout — HM2 + VetScan Chemistry Results
Patient
Report date
Sample ID(assigned automatically)
Test
Reference ranges
lowerlimit shows location
upperlimit
of test resultswithin referencerange limits
Patientinformation
Reportheader
information
(assignedPatient
speciesautomatically)
and HM2serial number
parameters
Test results
WBC histogram
RBC histogram
PLT histogramand unit
VetScanresults
4-20 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
4.9 Using Prediluted Mode
The HM2 software provides a special predilution function for use in the following situations:
■ if an insufficient amount of blood is available for a routine CBC
■ if the CBC results are abnormally high (non-linear), resulting in an m, M, or N flag (see
“Warning Indicators” on page 9-2)
Perform an external predilution of the sample using HM2 reagent diluent, or an isotonic saline
solution. Dilute the sample by a 1:6 ratio (1 part sample to 5 parts diluent) — for example, 50 μl
sample to 250 μl diluent or saline. Mix well.
Perform the analysis as follows.
1. Press the Measurement/Analysis key ,
then press the soft key.
2. Select Prediluted mode. (The accompanying
checkbox is filled in.)
Note: Before using prediluted mode, always call Abaxis Technical Sup-
port — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
Note: Prediluted mode must be calibrated before use. The HM2 is cali-
brated at installation, and can be recalibrated as described in
“Calibration” on page 5-2 (select Prediluted blood (1:5) as the
calibrator).
After the dilution, perform a QC run for the 1:5 diluted quality
control blood. See “Performing Quality Control” on page 5-6 for
instructions.
MENU
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-21
3. Press the soft key. Notice that “1:5”
now appears in the upper left corner of the
screen.
4. If you are processing a new sample: press the
soft key, enter the patient information,
then press .
If you are processing a sample that has
already been tested as non-prediluted: select
Repeat Last Sample to avoid re-entering the
patient information.
5. Press the Start button to begin the analy-
sis. The HM2 will automatically calculate the
results with the 1:5 predilution factor.
Note: The HM2 automatically returns to normal mode after the predi-
luted analysis completes.
ACCEPT
PT.ID
ACCEPT
4-22 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
4.10 Interpreting CBC Parameters
Complete Blood Count (CBC) parameters are useful in assessing the overall wellness of a patient,
as well as for identifying and monitoring certain disease states.
The following tables outline the various CBC parameters and associated clinical indications.
Table 4-1: White Blood Cells and Associated Indications
White Blood Cell (Leukocyte) Role Increase in Disease State Decrease in Disease State
Non-Granulocytic
Lymphocytes B-cells: humoral immunity (antibody synthesis)T-cells: cellular immunity
• Chronic inflammation• Acute infection/recovery• Lymphocytic anemia• Hypoadrenocorticism
• Acute/severe disease• Viral disease• Endotoxemia• Hyperadrenocorticism• Stress-related corticos-
teroid response
Monocytes Immature macrophages — phagocytosis of debris/for-eign material, killer-cell acti-vation
Necrotic, malignant, hemor-rhagic, or immune-mediated disease
Rare, no known significance
Granulocytes
Neutrophils
Left shift: Increased numbers of immature neutrophils/band cells.• regenerative: < 10%
bands, neutrophilia, absence of myelo-cytes/metamyelo-cytes
• degenerative: >10% bands, depressed total neutropenia, presence of myelo-cytes/metamyelo-cytes (poor prognostic indicator)
Right shift: Increased number of hyperma-ture (hyper-seg-mented) neutrophils, usually seen with non-infectious inflammatory process (e.g. malig-nancy)
Phagocytize/kill microorgan-isms, initiate and modify inflammatory process, cyto-toxic
• Inflammation• Neoplasm• Stress• Exercise/excitement
• Bacterial infection• Viral infection • Drug-induced (bone mar-
row depression)
Eosinophils • Parasiticidal• Cytotoxic• Phagocytic
• Parasitic infection• Allergic responses• Hypoadrenocorticism
• Stress• Hyperadrenocorticism• ACTH therapy
Basophils • Initiate inflammation• Prevent coagulation• Activate lipoprotein lipase
• Allergic reactions• Parasitic infection• Neoplasia
No known significance
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-23
Table 4-2: Red Blood Cell Parameters and Associated Indications
Table 4-3: Platelet Parameters and Associated Indications
Parameter Definition Diagnostic Consideration
Hematocrit (HCT) Percentage of total cellular constituents (primarily red blood cells) in a unit of whole blood
Anemia exists when the HCT falls below the reference range for the species.Increase in red cell count or polycythemia is most commonly the result of dehydration.Hematocrit will normally have a value of approximately three times (3X) the hemoglo-bin value.
Hemoglobin (HGB) The oxygen-carrying component of red blood cells; allows for the calculation of MCH and MCHC
Hemoglobin normally falls in the range of one third (1/3) of the hematocrit value.
RBC IndicesAnemia Characteriza-tion
MCVMean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
Measure of the volume of an average RBC:• MCV = (HCT x 10) / RBC
• Increase: most commonly associated with reticulocytes/regenerative anemia
• Decrease: iron-deficiency anemia
MCHMean Corpuscular Hemoglobin
Calculated HGB concentration of an aver-age RBC• MCH = (HGB x 10) / RBC (in pico-
grams)
• Increase: most commonly the result of hemolysis
• Decrease: hypochromasia common in iron-deficiency anemia and reticulocytosis
MCHCMean Corpuscular HemoglobinConcentration
Calculated HGB concentration in an aver-age RBC• MCHC = MCH / MCV (in grams of
HGB per 100 ml RBCs)
• Increase: most commonly the result of hemolysis
• Decrease: hypochromasia common in iron-deficiency anemia and reticulocytosis
RDWRed Cell Distribution Width
Measure of red blood cell anisocytosis (cell size variation)
• Increase: indicates increased production of large immature cells. RDW increases even before the MCV exceeds the normal range: early indicator of regenerative anemia. RDW also increases with the production of small RBCs in iron-deficiency anemia.
Parameter Increase in Disease State Decrease in Disease State
Total Platelet Count Thrombocytosis is present with excess bleeding, iron deficiency anemia and myeloproliferative syndromes.
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation• Bone marrow depression• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia• Severe hemorrhage
MPVMean Platelet Volume
Indirect evidence of increased (bone mar-row) megakaryocyte response.
Not an accurate predictor of decreased mega-karyocyte response.
PCTPlatelet Hematocrit
Volume of platelets expressed as a per-centage of whole blood (used as a research tool).
Volume of platelets expressed as a percent-age of whole blood (used as a research tool).
PDWPlatelet Distribution Width
Increased measure of platelet anisocyto-sis (platelet size variation) indicative of active platelet release.
No known clinical significance.
4-24 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results
Section 5
Calibration and Quality ControlThis section describes the calibration and quality control procedures forthe VetScan HM2.
Section Contents
5.1 Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.1.1 When to Calibrate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.1.2 Required Calibration Materials and Handling . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.1.3 Calibration Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5.1.4 Viewing Calibration History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
5.2 Performing Quality Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
5.2.1 Required Quality Control Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
5.2.2 Quality Control Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
5.2.3 Monitoring Quality Control Values Over Time . . . . . . . . 5-8
5.2.4 Viewing the Accepted QC Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Calibration and Quality Control 5-1
5.1 Calibration
5.1.1 When to Calibrate
The HM2 is factory-calibrated for optimal performance. In the following situations, a fine-tuning
calibration can be done (using three measures of calibrator material):
■ on initial installation
■ when quality control measurements show a systematic error (bias — the curve is shifted
upward or downward) or are repeatedly outside predefined limits
■ after service that replaces any component related to the process of dilution or measure-
ment
■ after relocating the instrument
■ after software upgrades (as directed by Abaxis)
■ before using prediluted mode
5.1.2 Required Calibration Materials and Handling
The calibration procedure requires the Hematology Calibrator, Abaxis Part No. 700-9005.
WARNING: THE CALIBRATION PROCEDURE REQUIRES A SPECIAL CALI-
BRATOR THAT IS DERIVED FROM HUMAN SOURCES.
OBSERVE UNIVERSAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN HAN-
DLING THE CALIBRATOR SAMPLE.
5-2 Calibration and Quality Control
5.1.3 Calibration Procedure
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Calibration.
2. Select Run Calibrator.
3. Select the calibrator: Whole blood or Predi-
luted blood (1:5).
Select Prediluted blood (1:5) only if you are
using prediluted mode.
4. Enter the assay values for each parameter from
the calibrator package insert.
Use the and soft keys to move
between pages.
5. When all parameters are set, press the
soft key.
WARNING: IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT LATEX GLOVES BE
WORN DURING THIS PROCEDURE.
Note: Make sure to bring the calibrator up to room temperature
before beginning this procedure.
PGUP PGDN
ACCEPT
Calibration and Quality Control 5-3
6. Mix the calibrator by gently inverting the tube between thumb and forefinger 10 to 15
times. Remove the tube cap.
7. Place the calibrator into the control tube adapter.
8. Press the Start button .
9. When analysis is complete and the display
shows the results, press .
The display then shows 2/3 Calib at the top.
10. Remove the tube from the adapter, and mix by gently inverting the tube between thumb
and forefinger 10 to 15 times.
11. Replace the tube in the adapter, and press the Start button.
Note: Needle height must be at
–2 mm. To adjust,
press , select
3: Needle Height,
press repeatedly
until needle height
= –2 mm, then
press .
The display shows 1/3 Calib
at top center, and Calib at
top right.
MENU
OK
ACCEPT
ACCEPT
5-4 Calibration and Quality Control
12. When the second analysis is complete and the
results are displayed, press .
The display then shows 3/3 Calib at top.
13. Remove the tube from the adapter, and mix by gently inverting the tube between thumb
and forefinger 10 to 15 times.
14. Replace the tube in the adapter, and press Start.
15. When the third analysis is complete, press
.
The new calibration factors are then displayed.
Use the and soft keys to move
between pages.
ACCEPT
ACCEPT
NEXT PREV
Calibration and Quality Control 5-5
16. Press to accept the new calibration factors. The instrument is now calibrated.
17. Press .
5.1.4 Viewing Calibration History
All calibration times and the settings used are logged and
saved, and can be viewed as follows:
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Cali-
bration.
2. Select View Calibration History.
5.2 Performing Quality Control
The HM2 is pre-programmed to monitor three different quality control (QC) types: Dog, Cat, and
Human. You should perform QC determinations regularly to verify continued optimal perfor-
mance.
We recommend testing control material (dog control or cat control) each time the reagent pack is
changed, or otherwise approximately once per month. Also, perform a quality control measure
after each service. The analyzer stores all accepted QC results in an internal database.
5.2.1 Required Quality Control Materials
The quality control procedure requires the following materials:
■ Dog Control, Abaxis Part No. 700-9003
■ Cat Control, Abaxis Part No. 700-9004
■ Human Calibrator, Abaxis Part No. 700-9005
Note: To complete the calibration, you need to press the
soft key after each calibration measurement. When all three
measurements are accepted, the instrument then calculates
and displays the new calibration factors. Do not change
any of these displayed calibration factors.
If the message “1 or more of your factors are out of range”
appears, call Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer
and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
ACCEPT
EXIT
ACCEPT
5-6 Calibration and Quality Control
5.2.2 Quality Control Procedure
Perform a quality control (QC) check as follows.
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Quality control.
2. Select Select QC type, then select the QC
material you want to use: Dog, Cat, or Human.
3. Select Set QC reference ranges.
4. From the package insert, enter the lot no., exp.
date, and assay and gap values for each test
parameter.
■ To disable QC of a parameter, set that
parameter to 0.0.
■ Use the and soft keys to
view and enter additional parameters.
5. Press to accept the data, then press again to confirm.
6. Mix the control vial by gently inverting the tube between thumb and forefinger 10 to 15
times, and remove its cap.
7. Put the control vial onto the control vial adapter on the sample rotor.
Note: Before performing this procedure, be sure to bring the qual-
ity control materials up to room temperature.
PGDN PGUP
ACCEPT ACCEPT
Calibration and Quality Control 5-7
8. Select Run QC to start the analysis.
Press the Start button .
The results screen displays Quality Control
as ID.
9. Press to accept the results and save them
in the QC database.
10. Abaxis strongly recommends performing three successful QC runs after calibrat-
ing the instrument.
5.2.3 Monitoring Quality Control Values Over Time
Many laboratories monitor the recovery values of quality control material over time to identify
trends and potential performance drift. The HM2 allows you to do this easily using a database table
and in graphic form.
5.2.4 Viewing the Accepted QC Database
You can view all of the accepted QC results from the instrument’s database in table or graphic
(Levy-Jennings) form. The QC measurement results are assigned sequential ID numbers.
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Quality control.
2. Select View table of QC measures.
■ Use the and keys to select entries,
and the and keys to move among
parameters.
■ To print a selected QC result, press
, then press the Print key .
Note: Any values that are out of range are highlighted.
If you don't accept the QC results, they will not be saved in
the instrument’s database.
ACCEPT
GRAPH
5-8 Calibration and Quality Control
Section 6
Managing the DatabaseThis section describes how to use the analyzer’s database.Section Contents
6.1 Database Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
6.2 Database Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
6.3 Navigating the Database System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Managing the Database 6-1
6.1 Database Overview
The analyzer can store up to 1,000 complete test results in its internal database. Results are stored
chronologically by date and time. (When more than 1,000 measurements are stored, the most
recent file replaces the oldest file.) You can retrieve these results anytime.
6.2 Database Table
To access the Database table, press the Database key on the front panel.
The first screen shows a table of the most recently saved
tests, as shown at right.
You can view the results in this screen as follows:
■ Use the and keys to view results that extend past the edge of the screen. Each test
result includes the following:
■ Use the and keys to move through individual results.
■ Select the highlighted patient results by pressing the OK key on the keypad. (The check
box next to the patient name is then filled.)
❑ To display the WBC, RBC, and PLT histograms, press the histogram soft key.
❑ To view the second panel, containing PLT results, press the soft key.
❑ To view sample information, press .
❑ To view the results in table format, press to return to the previous screen.
❑ To go to the Local Menu, press .
■ Print selected patient results by pressing the Print key. The screen then displays:
❑ Print as table — select this to print the selected results in table format.
❑ Print result by result — select this to print each result with its sample information,
CBC values, and histograms.
To print an individual result, highlight the result, press , then press Print .
❑ Sample ID ❑ Warnings (if any) ❑ Mode
❑ Date ❑ Name ❑ Doctor
❑ Patient ID ❑ Age ❑ Lyse
❑ 18 CBC parameters ❑ Sex ❑ Clogging report
GRAPH
NEXT
PT.ID
TABLE
MENU
GRAPH
6-2 Managing the Database
6.3 Navigating the Database System
Use the Database local menu to access and manage the records stored in the analyzer’s database.
From the Database table screen, enter the Database local
menu by pressing the key.
The menu contains the following items:
■ Go to specified record: Jumps to a particular
sample record. Enter the date and time, sample
ID, and patient ID of the sample you want to
view, and press the key. The first sample
meeting your parameters is then displayed. If
Patient ID is blank (0), records are searched by
date/time only.
■ Selection: Selects all records in memory, or all
those with a specific date, time, and ID. Select
by date, time and ID selects a range of records
by date, time, and/or ID number. Select all
selects all records, and Deselect all deselects all
records. Entering 0 as an ID searches by date
only. Corresponding results are marked with a
filled box.
■ Change sort order: Changes the order in
which results are displayed: Unsorted, Sort by
time, Sort by sample ID, or Sort by patient
ID.
MENU
ACCEPT
Managing the Database 6-3
■ Manage selected records: Enables you to
Send selected records to a PC, Delete selected
records, or Backup selected records to a USB
flash drive. (Before selecting Backup selected
records, insert a USB flash drive into the USB
port on the analyzer’s front-panel.)
■ View external: Views previously saved data from a USB flash drive inserted into the
USB port on the analyzer’s front-panel.
■ Backup one day: Backs up all records from a
specified day to a USB flash drive.
1. Select the date to back up, and confirm by
pressing the soft key.
2. Insert a flash drive in the USB port on the
front of the analyzer, then press .
The records are then copied to the flash
drive.
ACCEPT
ACCEPT
6-4 Managing the Database
Section 7
Maintenance & ServiceThis section details maintenance and service procedures for the analyzer.Section Contents
7.1 Periodic Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
7.1.1 Daily Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
7.1.2 Weekly Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
7.1.3 Monthly Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
7.2 Cleaning the Aperture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
7.3 Bleach-Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
7.4 Shut-Down Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7
7.5 Changing the Reagent Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
7.6 Running the Self Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
7.7 Replacing the Peristaltic Pump Tube Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
Maintenance & Service 7-1
7.1 Periodic Maintenance
Performing the simple and easy maintenance procedures in this section will help keep your ana-
lyzer in optimal operating condition, thus ensuring peak performance, high-quality results, and a
good return on your investment.
7.1.1 Daily Maintenance
The analyzer’s automatic standby mode is designed to keep the system’s internal workings in opti-
mal condition, and so reduces the amount of maintenance needed.
■ Always keep the analyzer and its immediate surroundings as clean as possible to prevent
debris from getting into the system.
■ Check all reagent lines for kinks, pinches, abnormalities, and leaks or spills.
■ Clean up any standing fluid near the analyzer.
■ Wipe up any spills on the sample rotor.
7.1.2 Weekly Maintenance
Perform the following tasks once a week.
Clean the Wash Head
The wash head cleans the outer surface of the sample needle with a saline diluent. Salt can build up
around the wash head if it is not cleaned regularly. As a reminder, once a week the analyzer dis-
plays this message on the bottom of its screensaver:
“It is time to clean the needle wash head. Go to , Maintenance, Cleaning for
instructions.”
When this message appears, follow the instructions below to clean the wash head and prevent salt
accumulation. The process takes only a few seconds to complete.
Note: Pay particular attention to the weekly maintenance.
CAUTION: Do not touch any components inside the instrument except as spe-
cifically directed.
7-2 Maintenance & Service
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Maintenance.
2. Select Clean the wash head.
3. Open the door on the right side of the instrument.
The wash head’s location is shown at right.
4. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and warm tap water to gently rub
the lower surface of the wash head to remove any salt build-
up.
5. When finished, close the side door, then press the soft key.
Once this procedure is complete, the screensaver reminder will disappear, and will reappear
in one week.
ACCEPT
Maintenance & Service 7-3
7.1.3 Monthly Preventive Maintenance
Once a month, clean the analyzer as follows.
1. Turn off and (if possible) unplug the analyzer.
2. Use a slightly damp cloth to clean the analyzer’s cover, front panel, and sampling rotor.
3. Open the side and rear doors, and clean the internal metal chassis underlay if necessary.
4. Clean the entire pneumatic system (tubes, valves, chamber, and aperture) with a “Prime
all” cycle:
a. Press the Utilities key , then select Maintenance.
b. Select Priming.
c. Select Prime all.
The analyzer then performs its priming process, including cleaning.
CAUTION: Do not use chemical cleaners such as bleach, and do not use an
excessively wet cloth. Water can cause the instrument’s electronics
to malfunction. Avoid touching internal components.
Note: Step 4 can be skipped if the reagent pack is changed monthly
and the instrument is shut down weekly.
7-4 Maintenance & Service
7.2 Cleaning the Aperture
The analyzer automatically performs a three-step cleaning process after each analysis. In addition,
the analyzer provides a software-driven process that you can use to clear the measuring aperture of
any debris when needed (such as when directed to perform as a part of troubleshooting).
1. Press the Utilities key , select Mainte-
nance, then select Cleaning.
2. Select Automatic self-cleaning.
The analyzer then performs its cleaning process,
and returns to the Maintenance menu when fin-
ished.
7.3 Bleach-Cleaning
Use this procedure to bleach-clean the analyzer’s internal tubing each time you change the reagent
pack. You will need the following materials:
■ cleaning tube kit (shown on page 2-10)
■ household-strength chlorine bleach — at least 5 ml
■ distilled water — at least 195 ml
Run the bleach-cleaning process as follows:
1. Prepare a 5% bleach solution using 5 ml of bleach and 95 ml of distilled water.
In addition to the bleach solution, you will need at least 100 ml of distilled water for
rinsing.
Maintenance & Service 7-5
2. Press the Utilities key , then select
Maintenance.
3. Select Bleaching.
4. When asked to confirm, press .
5. When prompted, disconnect the reagent tubing from the reagent inlets (diluent, lyse,
cleaner, and rinse) on the back of the analyzer, but leave the waste tubing connected.
6. Press to continue.
7. When prompted, connect the cleaning tube kit to the
reagent inputs as shown.
Note: If you do not have the cleaning tubing, leave the reagent
lines connected to the analyzer, and instead disconnect the
rinse, lyse, diluent, and cleaner bottle caps, and submerge
all four lines into the bleach solution — see step 8.
ACCEPT
ACCEPT
7-6 Maintenance & Service
8. Submerge the free end of the cleaning tube in the
bleach solution.
9. Press to continue.
10. When prompted, disconnect the cleaning tube (leaving the waste tubing connected), then
press .
11. When prompted, connect the cleaning tube kit to the reagent inputs as shown in step 7,
and submerge the free end of the cleaning tube in a container of at least 100 ml of dis-
tilled water, as shown in step 8.
12. Press to continue.
13. When prompted, disconnect the cleaning tube (leaving the waste tubing connected), then
press .
14. When prompted, select from the following options as needed:
■ To install a new reagent pack, press .
■ To reconnect the old reagents, press .
■ To turn off the analyzer, press .
7.4 Shut-Down Procedures
If you will not use the instrument for more than 72 hours, shut it down as described in “Turning the
Analyzer Off” on page 2-28.
Note: Proper use of the analyzer’s shut-down procedure is critical
for maintaining the instrument in good working condition.
ACCEPT
ACCEPT
ACCEPT
ACCEPT
NEW
OLD
STOP
Maintenance & Service 7-7
7.5 Changing the Reagent Pack
Follow this procedure to change the reagent pack.
1. Disconnect the reagent tubing from the reagent inlets (diluent, lyse, cleaner, and rinse)
on the back of the analyzer, but leave the waste tubing connected.
2. Perform a bleach cleaning — see “Bleach-Cleaning” on page 7-5.
3. Reconnect the reagent tubing to the inlets on the back of the analyzer.
4. Remove the caps (with tubing still attached) from the old reagent pack (including the
waste container).
5. Connect a new reagent pack, using the same tubing and reagent cap connectors.
6. Re-cap the used reagents with their original caps, and dispose of them in an environmen-
tally appropriate manner.
7. Prime all reagent lines:
a. Press the Utilities key , then select Maintenance.
b. Select Priming, then select Prime All.
8. Reset the reagent status:
a. Press the Utilities key , then select Maintenance.
b. Select Reagent Status.
7-8 Maintenance & Service
c. Press the soft key, then press
to confirm.
The analyzer updates the installation
date, reagent lifetime, and the amount of
reagent in each container.
d. Press when finished.
9. If you place the new reagent pack in a different location relative to the instrument (com-
pared to the old pack), recalibrate the fluid sensors to obtain the maximum number of
tests per pack. (Calibration is not necessary if the new pack is placed in the same loca-
tion as the old one.)
If needed, calibrate the fluid sensors — see “Fluid Sensor Settings” on page 3-16.
10. Run a quality control procedure using a dog or cat sample — see “Performing Quality
Control” on page 5-6.
Note: If you selected NEW at the last step of the bleach-cleaning,
the reagent status will be automatically reset for a new pack
(100% for each reagent).
CHANGE
ACCEPT
EXIT
Maintenance & Service 7-9
7.6 Running the Self Test
The analyzer includes an automated Self test that verifies proper operation of essential components
of the instrument. Run the Self test at these times:
■ at installation
■ after replacing any component
■ after any extended time out of use
■ if you suspect the analyzer is not working properly
1. Press the Utilities key , and select Diagnostics.
2. Select Self test. The analyzer then lists and checks off subsystems as it tests each.
3. When the test is finished, the analyzer displays
a summary of the results.
Press and to move through the
pages and view details.
Note: If the Overall result displayed is Errors, call Abaxis Techni-
cal Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on
page 1-2.
PGDN PGUP
7-10 Maintenance & Service
7.7 Replacing the Peristaltic Pump Tube Assembly
The analyzer’s peristaltic pump is designed to be maintenance-free. However, after extended, long-
term use (normally longer than a year), the pump tubing may eventually need to be replaced. The
analyzer includes a spare peristaltic pump tube set, with two plastic connectors and two metal
spring clips.
Though replacement is a simple process, Abaxis strongly recommends that you call Abaxis Tech-
nical Support before beginning, so that they can verify the need for pump tube replacement and
guide you through the process if necessary. See “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
Replace the peristaltic pump tube assembly as follows.
1. Open the analyzer’s rear door, and locate the peristal-
tic pump at the lower left of the rear compartment.
Disconnect the color-coded tubes attached to the base
of the pump housing, as shown.
2. Locate the locking mechanism on the underside of the
pump housing. Use the middle finger and thumb of
your right hand (as shown) to twist the fixing lock at
the base of the pump counterclockwise to loosen the
tube case.
WARNING: MAKE SURE THE INSTRUMENT IS POWERED OFF BEFORE YOU
BEGIN THIS PROCEDURE.
Note: Wear gloves while performing this procedure.
Keep paper towels on hand in case any liquid spills from the
tubes.
turn counterclockwise
Maintenance & Service 7-11
3. Lift the pump tube case upward and remove it.
4. Remove the tubing from inside the case and replace
it with the new tubing provided.
Make sure the two plastic connectors at the ends
of the tubing are properly placed into the slots of
the tube case, and that the metal clips face
inward. Otherwise, the tube case cannot be
installed properly.
5. Fit the tube case back onto the pump housing from
the top, and firmly press both sides of the case.
6. Twist the fixing lock at the base of the pump clock-
wise until it clicks. The pump tube is then properly
installed.
Make sure the tubing case fits properly and tightly
in the correct position.
7. Reconnect the color-coded tubes to their proper
connectors: white to white, green to green.
8. Wipe up any spilled fluids from the base of the instrument. Close the rear door.
7-12 Maintenance & Service
Section 8
Special FunctionsThis section describes special functions you can use in operating theinstrument.
Section Contents
8.1 Viewing the Software Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
8.2 Viewing Status Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
8.3 Updating the Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
8.4 Customizing the User-Defined Species Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
8.5 Customizing and Printing the Normal Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Special Functions 8-1
8.1 Viewing the Software Version
■ To view the software version number, press the
Utilities key , select Diagnostics, then
select Device information.
8.2 Viewing Status Information
■ To view device statistics — number of analyses
performed, clogs, and errors, and other infor-
mation that may be useful for technical service
— press the Utilities key , select Diagnos-
tics, then select Statistics.
■ To view the status of the reagent pack, press the
Utilities key , select Maintenance, then
select Reagent status.
Note: Do not press the soft key unless you are changing
the reagent pack. Otherwise, the analyzer will not display
the true reagent status.
CHANGE
8-2 Special Functions
8.3 Updating the Software
From time to time, Abaxis will send you an updated version of the analyzer software on a CD. Use
the following procedure to install the update from the CD.
1. Press the Utilities key , and select Maintenance.
2. Select Software upgrade.
3. Open the analyzer’s CD-ROM drive by pressing the button on the drive door.
4. Insert the update CD in the drive, then close the drive.
5. Press . The system then restarts.
6. When the Upgrade/Install menu appears, select Upgrade existing version.
7. When the CD-ROM drive opens, remove the CD from the drive and store it in a safe
place.
8. Restart the analyzer by turning it off and then on again using the power switch on the
back of the instrument
The analyzer then automatically functions with the upgraded software version.
8.4 Customizing the User-Defined Species Profile
The analyzer includes a User-Defined Species Profile that enables you to define your own species
for testing. This profile can only be activated by Abaxis Technical Support personnel.
If you need to create custom species, please contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer
and Technical Support” on page 1-2. They will guide you through activating the profile, and help
you to customize it to suit your requirements.
ACCEPT
Special Functions 8-3
8.5 Customizing and Printing the Normal Range
If you need to print out the normal range for particular species, do so as follows.
1. Press the Measurement/Analysis key , then press the soft key.
2. Select the species you want, then press the key. The species you selected are
shown at the upper right corner of the next screen.
3. Press . The normal ranges of the
selected species are then displayed.
4. Change any limits as needed, then press
.
5. Press the Print key .
The normal range of the selected species then
prints.
PT.ID
ACCEPT
LIMITS
ACCEPT
8-4 Special Functions
Section 9
TroubleshootingUse the information in this section to help diagnose and solve problemswith the analyzer.
Section Contents
9.1 Warning Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.1.1 Blank Flags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.1.2 Measurement conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.1.3 Out-of-Range Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.1.4 Results Flags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.2 Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
9.3 Evaluating Unexpected Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
9.3.1 Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
9.4 Preparing the Analyzer for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10
Troubleshooting 9-1
9.1 Warning Indicators
This section lists warning indicators (flags) that can appear in test results, along with possible solu-
tions for each.
9.1.1 Blank Flags
If analysis errors occur or the blank measurement is too high,
an E error flag appears along with the affected parameter,
and “---” is displayed instead of results. In this situation, per-
form a cleaning — see “Cleaning the Aperture” on page 7-5.
If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support —
see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
9.1.2 Measurement conditions
Warning flags are grouped according to measurement conditions and problems with the sample.
■ c, C, q, and Q flags are related to aperture clogging. Perform three to five cleanings as
needed (see “Cleaning the Aperture” on page 7-5), and repeat the blank measurement
(see “Run a Blank Measurement” on page 4-5).
■ b, p, E, H, and B are generally due to reagent contamination or lack of sample. Check
the sample (needle height, etc.). If contamination is suspected, change the reagent pack
(see “Changing the Reagent Pack” on page 7-8).
■ m, M, and N are caused by too high a cell concentration. Perform an external 1:5 dilu-
tion and repeat the measurement (see “Using Prediluted Mode” on page 4-21). Run a
quality control procedure if needed (see “Performing Quality Control” on page 5-6).
An asterisk (*) near a parameter indicates uncertainty. A variety of causes are possible. If a result
warning flag is present, refer to Table 9-1 on page 9-3 for possible causes and solutions.
9.1.3 Out-of-Range Results
If a parameter is outside the normal reference range, it is flagged with “–” if below the normal
range, or “+” if above the normal range. Reference ranges can be edited and customized in the
Limits menu. A setting of 0 for a range limit results in no reference range flagging.
9.1.4 Results Flags
If a warning occurs, a “*” flag appears before the result. Specific warning flags are displayed on
the results screen, and are grouped according to measurement conditions and the problems relating
to the blood sample:
■ Uppercase warning flags (E, H, B, C, Q) are related to WBC or HGB measures.
■ Lowercase flags (p, b, c, q) are related to RBC or PLT measures.
9-2 Troubleshooting
The following table summarizes these flags.
Table 9-1: Result Warning Flags
Flag Meaning Description / Recommended action
E Empty sample. • Needle may not reach sample. Check needle height and adjust to –2 mm if needed.
No WBC 3-part differential(unable to report a WBC dif-ferential)
• May occur in pathological lymphocytosis. Review slide if WBC count is outside normal limits.
• Possible lyse problem. Prime lyse and repeat the blank.
H HGB blank is high, or no HGB blank
• Possible interference. Make sure the side door is closed, and repeat the blank measurement.
• Possible bubbles in the WBC chamber. Check the connec-tions of the reagent inputs and perform a cleaning. Repeat the blank.
B WBC blank is high, or no WBC blank
• Check to see if wash head needs cleaning. If cleaning is needed, perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and repeat the blank measurement.
• If the blank is too high, perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and repeat the blank measurement.
• Possible lyse problem. Prime lyse and repeat the blank.• Possible lyse contamination. Check lyse container and line
for contamination. Repeat the blank.• Possible electrical noise interference. Be sure to use an unin-
terruptable power supply (UPS). Repeat the blank.
M, N Linearity error, or WBC coin-cidence is too high
• The results are out of the linearity range. Make a dilution with an external method to achieve 1:5 dilution rate, and run again. (1:5 calibration should be current.)
• Prime lyse and repeat the blank.
C, Q WBC clogging • Aperture clogging. Perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and repeat the measurement. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see page 1-2.
• Low-temperature reagents (mainly diluent) can cause this. Be sure to allow reagents to reach room temperature.
p PLT blank is high, or no PLT blank
• Check to see if wash head needs cleaning. If cleaning is needed, perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and repeat the blank measurement.
• Possible reagent contamination or system cleanliness prob-lem. If the problem persists, change the reagent pack, per-form a cleaning, and repeat. If the problem still remains, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see page 1-2.
b RBC blank is high, or no RBC blank
• Check to see if wash head needs cleaning. If cleaning is needed, perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and repeat the blank measurement.
• Possible reagent contamination or system cleanliness prob-lem. If the problem persists, change the reagent pack, per-form a cleaning, and repeat. If the problem still remains, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see page 1-2.
m Linearity error, or RBC/PLT coincidence is too high
• Results are out of linearity range. contact Abaxis Technical Support — see page 1-2. Run a control cycle.
c RBC/PLT clogging • Low-temperature reagents (mainly diluent) can cause this. Be sure to allow reagents to reach room temperature.
• Aperture clogging. Run cleaning and repeat the measure-ment. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Sup-port — see page 1-2.
Troubleshooting 9-3
9.2 Error Messages
Below are a few very common error messages and solutions to the errors.
■ Error message: “Out of diluent, lyse, cleaner, or rinse”
Solutions:
❑ Visually check the reagent containers for reagent. If needed, change the reagent pack
— see “Changing the Reagent Pack” on page 7-8.
❑ Check for bubbles in the reagent tubing. If bubbles are present, check the connec-
tions at the back of the instrument, at the top of the corresponding reagent container,
and under the container cap to make sure they are tight.
❑ Make sure the reagent sensor is on — if it is not, there will be an “S” in the top left
corner of the display. In this case, calibrate the fluid sensor — see “Fluid Sensor Set-
tings” on page 3-16.
■ Error message: “Pressure or vacuum error”
Solutions:
❑ Check for loose, detached, or kinked tubing inside and outside the instrument. Make
sure there are no leaks.
❑ Check the tubing inside the instrument for clots.
❑ Check for bubbles in the reagent tubing. If bubbles are present, check the connec-
tions at the back of the instrument, at the top of the corresponding reagent container,
and under the container cap to make sure they are tight.
❑ Visually check the reagent containers for reagent. If needed, change the reagent
pack— see “Changing the Reagent Pack” on page 7-8.
9-4 Troubleshooting
9.3 Evaluating Unexpected Results
This section presents several histograms demonstrating unexpected results. These examples will
assist you in identifying various cell populations, their position, and their ratio as indicated by their
respective histograms.
The figure at right shows a “full-spectrum” histogram.
The first two discriminators in this example show a clean val-
ley between 29 and 34, which is ideal. The first discriminator
indicates the end of the platelet population (and is not nor-
mally displayed in the PLT histogram), and the second indi-
cates the start of the WBC category. High peaks or lack of a
“valley” here indicate one or more of the following:
■ existence of nucleated RBCs or reticulocytes
■ existence of resistive RBCs (bigger pieces of hemolysed RBCs in WBC solution)
■ contaminated reagents, or other interference such as electrical noise, etc.
Note that this illustration shows a “full-spectrum” histogram (2–400 fl) following the RBC lysing
process, whereby the entire RBC population is ideally lysed for accurate counting of white blood
cells and platelets.
In the above histogram, the third and fourth discriminators establish the WBC differential:
■ The area (cells) between the second and third discriminators is classified as lympho-
cytes.
■ The area between the third and fourth discriminators is classified as monocytes.
■ The area to the right of the fourth discriminator is classified as granulocytes.
Discriminators
1 2 3 4
Troubleshooting 9-5
9.3.1 Examples
1 — High Blank, Flag p
The blank measurement shown below indicates a high PLT background, most likely due to a con-
taminated system. Blank is optimal if PLT < 26.
Evaluation
The above histograms indicate the following (see the arrows):
■ WBC — normal: shows no traces of particles
■ RBC — shows some background “noise”
■ PLT — shows a p flag, indicating background “noise” (such as chamber contamination)
Solution
1. Perform three to five cleanings as needed — see “Cleaning the Aperture” on page 7-5.
2. Repeat the blank measurement — see “Run a Blank Measurement” on page 4-5.
3. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Techni-
cal Support” on page 1-2.
any cells in this area may reflectthe presence of aggregated/giantplatelets, nRBCs, retics, etc.
9-6 Troubleshooting
2 — No results due to having accepted a high blank — flags p, b, and B
A report similar to that shown below results from measuring a sample without first generating an
acceptable blank. The p (high PLT), b (high RBC), and B (high WBC) flags show that the previous
blank measurement had high background values. Although histograms are shown, the values are
not reported (see the arrows in the values listing).
Evaluation
The above histograms indicate the following (see the arrows):
■ WBC — B flag, high WBC background
■ RBC — b flag, high RBC background
■ PLT — p flag, high WBC background
Solution
1. Perform three to five cleanings as needed — see “Cleaning the Aperture” on page 7-5.
2. Repeat the blank measurement — see “Run a Blank Measurement” on page 4-5.
3. Repeat the sample run after obtaining an acceptable blank.
4. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Techni-
cal Support” on page 1-2.
Troubleshooting 9-7
3 — WBC clogging, flag C
In cases of aperture clogging, the histogram represents apparent large cells, since clogging results
in a smaller effective aperture, which makes the particles passing through appear relatively larger.
The histograms are drawn, but WBC results are not available.
Evaluation
The above histograms indicate the following (see the arrows and highlight):
■ WBC — flag C shows WBC aperture clogging
■ HGB — the result is unbelievably high (resulting in erroneous MCH/MCHC results)
■ RBC — normal
■ PLT — normal
Solution
1. Perform three to five cleanings as needed — see “Cleaning the Aperture” on page 7-5.
2. Repeat the measurement.
3. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Techni-
cal Support” on page 1-2.
Note: In cases of RBC clogging, MCV (and consequently HCT)
are artificially larger.
9-8 Troubleshooting
4 — WBC non-linear, flag M
This particular sample shows a typical lymphocytosis (WBC count beyond linearity limits).
Evaluation
The above histograms indicate the following (see the arrow and highlight):
■ WBC — WBC is very high, indicating leukocytosis. Flag M means that the WBC
results are out of the linearity range. The absolute and percentage values are marked
with asterisks (*), due to overlapping cell populations (cell discriminators may not be
accurate).
■ RBC — normal
■ PLT — normal
Solution
Contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
Troubleshooting 9-9
9.4 Preparing the Analyzer for Shipment
If Abaxis Technical Support determines that your instrument needs to be sent in for service, Abaxis
will send you a loaner unit for use in the meanwhile. After you receive the loaner unit, prepare your
analyzer for shipping as follows.
1. Switch off the instrument as described on page 2-29.
2. Remove the waste connector from the instrument.
3. Put the cap on each reagent intake valve on the instrument to prevent reagent solutions
from leaking out.
4. Remove the thermal printer paper roll from the built-in printer.
5. Remove the sample adapter from the sample rotor.
6. Unplug the external power supply, printer cable, and mini-keyboard from the instrument.
7. Open the instrument side door. Wipe up any liquid left inside the instrument.
8. Insert the foam piece in the position
shown to prevent sample needles from
sliding.
9. If you received a loaner instrument,
transfer the tape from the loaner instru-
ment's counting chamber onto the top of
your instrument’s counting chamber to
protect it from dust.
If you did not receive a loaner instru-
ment, proceed to the next step.
10. Close the side door. Wipe up any liquid left outside of the instrument.
11. Place the analyzer into its original plastic bag and place it inside its shipping box. Make
sure that the forms and instrument fit perfectly inside of the box.
12. Place the power supply and power cord properly into the shipping box.
13. Close the box and seal the box using a strong tape.
The instrument is now ready for shipping.
CAUTION: DO NOT use any other type of tape, as the tape’s adhesive may
damage the counting chamber.
9-10 Troubleshooting
Section 10
SpecificationsThis appendix contains technical specifications for the HM2 system, andlists its linearity ranges.
Section Contents
10.1 VetScan HM2 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
10.2 Linearity Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Specifications 10-1
10.1 VetScan HM2 Specifications
Sample volume 25 µl whole blood (50 µl in prediluted mode)
Aperture diameter 80 µm
Throughput Approximately 25 tests/hour
CharacteristicsAccuracy
(max. deviance from expected)
Reproducibility (CV)
Carry-over betweensamples Test range
WBC 3% < 3% < 1% 4.0–20.0
RBC 3% < 3% < 1% 4.00–15.00
HCT 3% < 3% < 1% 25.0–50.0
MCV 2% < 1% N/A 50–90
HGB 2% < 2% < 1% 9–16
PLT 4% < 4% < 3% 200–900
HCT 3% < 3% < 1% 25.0–50.0
Sampling method Open tube system with automatic sample rotor
Clog prevention High-voltage pulse and chemical cleaning of the aperture in each analysis cycle
Cleaning procedure High-voltage burst of the aperture, high-pressure back-flush, chemical cleaning of the aperture
Quality control 3 QC options. QC parameters include: mean, ± range, SD and CV for all measured and calculated parameters, 16- and 64-day Levy-Jennings charts, separate QC database
Calibration Automatic based on 3 measurements (default method). Predilution method must be calibrated independently.
Multi user feature Three-level Multi user operation with selective privilege levels, user identi-fication with ID and password
User interface Easy-to-use, menu-driven user interface with 6 hard-function buttons, graphic icons, and on-screen help
Languages available English. For other languages, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see page 1-2.
Data capacity 1000 results, including histograms on-board. Data can be saved to USB flash drive or downloaded to computer.
Host computer interface Serial (RS-232) computer link and USB
Data back-up method USB flash drive
Software upgrade method USB flash drive or CD-ROM
External printer interface USB
Built-in printer “Easy Paper Operation” built-in thermal printer
Display 240x128-dot, high-contrast, CCFL, backlit, graphics liquid crystal diode
Keypad 24 foil keys + START button
External keyboard Standard PS/2 or USB-compatible keyboard
Power supply External 12 VDC, 8 A power module
Power supply (input) 100/240 V, 50–60 Hz, 10 W stand by, 80 W operating
Operating temperature 59–86 °F (15–30 °C). Optimal temperature is 77 °F (25 °C).
Dimensions (W x D x H) 12.6 x 10.2 x 14.4 in (320 x 260 x 365 mm)
Net weight 26.4 lbs (12 kg)
10-2 Specifications
10.2 Linearity Ranges
The HM2 is guaranteed to provide specified accuracies within its linearity range. Beyond this
range, results may still be displayed, but accuracy is no longer guaranteed.
If the value is over the maximum range of guaranteed linearity, the instrument cannot measure it,
and the result will be marked with an E, m, M, or N flag.
To measure a sample whose parameters exceed the maximum linear value indicated in the table
below, predilution is recommended — see “Using Prediluted Mode” on page 4-21.
The following tables list the linearity ranges for primary parameters in normal measuring mode
and prediluted mode.
Table 10-1: Linearity Ranges in Normal Measuring Mode
Table 10-2: Linearity Ranges for Prediluted Mode
Parameter Linearity Ranges Maximum Unit
WBC 0–100 150 109 cells/liter
RBC 0–15 20 1012 cells/liter
PLT 0–700 1000 109 cells/liter
HGB 0–250 400 g/l
HCT 0–100 — %
MCV 30...150 — Fl
MPV 3...30 — Fl
Parameter Linearity Ranges Maximum Unit
WBC 2–200 300 109 cells/liter
RBC 1–30 40 1012 cells/liter
PLT 100–2000 3000 109 cells/liter
Specifications 10-3
10-4 Specifications
Appendix A
Introduction to Veterinary HematologyThis section introduces several fundamental concepts of veterinary hema-tology. Having a basic knowledge of these concepts will help you better
understand the results from the analyzer.
Appendix Contents
A.1 Function of Blood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
A.2 Composition of Blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
A.3 Blood Cell Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
A.3.1 Red Blood Cells, Hemoglobin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
A.3.2 White Blood Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5
A.3.3 Automated WBC Classification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5
A.3.4 Platelets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-6
A.4 Normal Hematology Ranges (Dog, Cat, Horse, and Others) . A-7
A.5 Veterinary Hematology References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-8
Introduction to Veterinary Hematology A-1
A.1 Function of Blood
Blood circulates in the body and acts as a transport medium that carries oxygen, essential nutrients,
and other materials to the cells of the body. It also serves to transport waste products for disposal.
Neurons, muscle cells, connective tissue cells, and epithelial cells draw their nourishment from
interstitial spaces, and respond to the glucose and oxygen content of that environment. Fresh sup-
plies of oxygen and glucose are exchanged with the blood circulating in the capillaries. Blood
receives its oxygen from lungs and glucose from the intestines and liver.
Normal cell function depends on the rapid removal of toxic metabolic products (CO2 and NH3)
from the interstitial fluid environment. These waste products are taken up by the plasma and red
blood cells, and eliminated as the blood passes through the kidneys and lungs. Blood also delivers
hormones, lipids, amino acids, salts, and vitamins, and removes urea and conjugated acids.
Blood distributes the heat generated by metabolizing body cells, so that body temperature is main-
tained at a constant level. In the event of vascular injury, blood platelets and plasma coagulation
mechanisms prevent blood loss by aggregating with other platelets to form large hemostatic plugs
(clots).
White blood cells protect against infections by identifying and killing invasive bacteria.
The number, size and distribution of blood cells provide important information for clinical diagno-
sis and therapy. The aim of hematology is to collect this information.
A-2 Introduction to Veterinary Hematology
A.2 Composition of Blood
Whole blood contains three cellular components:
■ Red blood cells (erythrocytes, RBC)
■ White blood cells (leukocytes, WBC)
■ Platelets (thrombocytes, PLT)
Table A-1: Cell Composition of Whole Blood*
Red Blood Cells White Blood Cells Platelets
Normal density 5–12 x 1012 cells/l 6–15 x 109 cells/l 100–700 x109 cells/l
Nucleated? No ** Yes No
Sub-populations and their per-centages
RBC: 99.9%
NRBC **(Nucleated RBC) 0.1%
GRAnulocytes: 65%NEUtrophil: 60%EOSinophil: 4%BASophil: 1%
LYMphocytes: 32%MONocytes: 3%
Shape, sizeBiconcave (donut) shapediameter: 5–7 µmthickness: 1.8–2 µm
GRAnulocytes: 13–16 µmLYMphocytes: 8–15 µmMONocytes: 15–25 µm
Fragments with a diameter of 2-4 µm
Volume of cell 30–80 fl 50–1500 fl 5–15 fl
Volumetric% in whole blood
40–45% 0.1% 0.3%
* Data generated using whole human blood.**Mature mammalian RBCs are non-nucleated.
Introduction to Veterinary Hematology A-3
A.3 Blood Cell Parameters
A.3.1 Red Blood Cells, Hemoglobin
Red blood cells — RBC — are formed in the bone marrow. A mature human red blood cell is non-
nucleated, and has a mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of approx. 70 fl. RBCs are the most numer-
ous cell type in blood. There are approximately 5–10 x 1012 cells/l in the blood of a healthy dog.
RBC and MCV are directly measured primary parameters.
Hematocrit — HCT — is the proportion of RBCs to plasma (liquid portion) in blood. HCT is the
most accurate and simplest way to measure the degree of anemia, and is calculated from the RBC
and MCV values:
HCTpercent = RBC x MCV / 10
HCTabsolute = HCTpercent / 10
Typically, HCT = 0.45 = 45%
Red Blood Cell Distribution Width — RDW — is a
measure of RBC anisocytosis, the degree of cell size
variation. In a healthy sample, RBCs demonstrate a
normal (Gaussian) distribution (bell curve), as shown
at right. RDW can be characterized by a standard
deviation (RDW-SD) or a coefficient of variation
(RDW-CV) represented as a percentage.
Hemoglobin — HGB — is the main component of RBCs. It is a conjugated protein (with Fe), and
its main function is to transport oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide from the tis-
sues back to the lungs. Normal HGB concentration of samples is approximately 14 g/dl or 140 g/l
or 87 mmol/l.
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin — MCH — is the average hemoglobin content of RBCs, and is
calculated from RBC and HGB values:
MCH = HGB / RBC x 10, reported in picograms or fmol
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration — MCHC — is the concentration of HGB in an
average RBC, calculated from the HGB and HCT values:
MCHC = HGB / HCTabsolute , reported in g/dl, g/l or mmol/l
(fl)
A-4 Introduction to Veterinary Hematology
A.3.2 White Blood Cells
White Blood Cells — WBC — are formed in the bone marrow. During their maturation sequence
they differentiate from the parent cell into five sub-populations. WBCs are nucleated and classified
as granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils), lymphocytes, and monocytes. WBCs are
equipped with all cell organelles necessary to perform vital protective functions in the body.
The normal WBC is in the range of 7 x 109 cells/l, a fraction of the RBC population. In pathologi-
cal conditions, the WBC count can increase dramatically (up to 300 x 109 cells/l in extreme leuke-
mia). In these cases, predilution of the sample is recommended for the most accurate results (see
“Diluting Whole Blood” on page B-3).
Three-part differential histograms (volume distribution curves) of WBCs can be used as a simple,
visual evaluation of the number and relative percentage of lymphocytes (LYM, LYM%), mono-
cytes (MON, MON%), and granulocytes (GRA, GRA%).
WBC-related parameters are defined as follows:
WBC = LYM + MON + GRA
LYM% = LYM / WBC
MON% = MON / WBC
GRA% = GRA / WBC
A.3.3 Automated WBC Classification
The analyzer evaluates each sample as a unique population, using dynamic cellular discriminators
to assess the cellular distribution most accurately. To determine WBC sub-populations, the ana-
lyzer first sets “discriminator 1” at the limit of hemolysed RBCs + PLTs (on the left) and LYM
population, then fits normal distribution curves to the remaining WBC histogram (shown below in
different shades of grey).
RBC/PLT region
LYM population
GRA population
Discriminators:1. 2.3.
MID population
Introduction to Veterinary Hematology A-5
Eosinophilia is often depicted as a peak between the MON and GRA classifications.
As with any automated system, good laboratory practice requires that all abnormal results be veri-
fied by slide (blood smear) review.
A.3.4 Platelets
Platelets — PLT — are non-nucleated fragments of the megakaryocyte. Note that platelets are
formed by cellular fragmentation and not by a so-called maturation sequence. Therefore, the plate-
let histogram normally has a logarithmic shape on the left side, and a normal shape on the right
side (“log-normal” distribution).
Normal PLT concentrations range from 200–800 x 109 cells/l (for dogs), depending on the mean
platelet volume (MPV), but can vary from 0–1000x109 cells/l under certain circumstances.
PLTs are relatively small compared to RBCs. The mean platelet volume — MPV — is approxi-
mately 10 fl, so PLTs can effectively be separated from RBCs by their size.
Platelet aggregation is common, particularly in feline
species, and is depicted by a flattened, lumpy histogram,
as shown at right. This effect can be minimized with
proper sample collection and vortex mixing of the sam-
ple (up to 30 seconds) before analysis.
The analyzer calculates the volumetric ratio of PLTs in whole blood as follows:
PCTpercent = PLT x MPV/10%,
PCTabsolute = PCTpercent / 10
Typically, PCT = 0.003 = 0.3%
Platelet Distribution Width — PDW — is a measure of platelet anisocytosis, the degree of size
variation. In a healthy sample, platelets demonstrate a normal (Gaussian) distribution (bell curve).
PDW can be characterized by a standard deviation (PDW-SD) or a coefficient of variation
(PDW-CV) represented as a percentage.
A-6 Introduction to Veterinary Hematology
A.4 Normal Hematology Ranges (Dog, Cat, Horse, and Others)
The following table summarizes normal ranges of blood cell parameters. Keep in mind that normal
values vary from population to population.
Parameter Unit Dog Cat Horse Bovine Pig Mouse
WBC 109 cells/l 6–17 5.5–19.5 5.4–14.3 4–12 11–22 6–15
LYM% % 12–30 20–55 17–68 45–75 39–62 57–93
MID% % 2–4 1–3 0–14 2–7 2–10 0–7
GRA% % 62–87 35–80 22–80 15–65 28.5–64 8–48
RBC 1012 cells/l 5.5–8.5 5–10 6.8–12.9 5–10 5–8 7–12
HCT % 37–55 24–45 32–53 24–46 32–50 35–45
MCV fl 60–77 39–55 37–59 40–60 50–68 45–55
RDWcv %
HGB g/dl 120–180 80–150 110–190 80–150 100–160 122–162
MCH pg 19.5–24.5 12.5–17.5 12.3–19.7 11–17 17–21 11.1–12.7
MCHC g/dl 310–340 300–360 310–390 300–360 300–340 223–320
PLT 109 cells/l 200–500 300–800 100–400 100–800 325–715 200–450
MPV fl 3.9–11.1 12–17
Parameter Unit Dog Cat Horse Bovine Pig Mouse
WBC 109 cells/l 2.1–19.5 3–11.5 2–10 5.7–21 6–17 6–17
LYM% % 55–97 55–98 27–80 43–77 12–30 12–30
MID% % 0–5 0–6 0–10 0.4–6
GRA% % 2–31 0–40 16–70 19–52 62–87 62–87
RBC 1012 cells/l 5.3–10 5–9 7.8–13 4.8–6.3 5.5–8.5 5.5–8.5
HCT % 35–52 36–50 36–56 30–44 37–55 37–55
MCV fl 50–62 57–70 40–48 50–90 60–77 60–77
RDWcv %
HGB g/dl 140–180 127–163 124–187 80–150 120–180 120–180
MCH pg 16–23 17.5–23.5 13.5–16.5 12–13 19.5–24.5 19.5–24.5
MCHC g/dl 310–400 300–380 321–355 300–360 310–340 310–340
PLT 109 cells/l 500–1370 218–641 96–776 200–600 200–500 200–500
MPV fl
Introduction to Veterinary Hematology A-7
A.5 Veterinary Hematology References
■ “Schalm’s Veterinary Hematology,” 5th ed.,
Feldman, Bernard, et al, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2000.
■ “Veterinary Hematology, Atlas of Common Domestic Species,”
Reagan, William, et al, Iowa State Press, 1998.
■ “Veterinary Laboratory Medicine, Interpretation & Diagnosis,” 3rd ed.,
Meyer, Denny & Harvey, John, Elsevier Press, 2004.
■ “A Guide to Hematology in Dogs & Cats,”
Rebar, Alan, et al, Teton New Media, 2002.
■ “Automated Blood Counts & Differentials, A Practical Guide,”
Bessman, J David, Johns Hopkins University Press, 1986.
■ “Hematology Techniques & Concepts for Veterinary Technicians,”
Voigt, Gregg, Blackwell Publishing, 2000.
A-8 Introduction to Veterinary Hematology
Appendix B
Operating PrinciplesThis appendix explains the basic operating principles of the analyzer.Appendix Contents
B.1 Complete Blood Count (CBC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
B.2 Measurement Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
B.2.1 Volumetric Impedance Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
B.2.2 Diluting Whole Blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3
B.2.3 Three-Part WBC Differential Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4
B.3 Hemoglobin Determination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5
B.3.1 Hemoglobin Determination by Photometry . . . . . . . . . . B-5
B.4 Measured and Calculated Values. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6
Operating Principles B-1
B.1 Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The analyzer utilizes impedance technology whereby electrically neutral blood cells pass through
an electrically charged aperture thereby generating a “pulse.” Cell counts are determined by the
number of pulses measured in a given volume of blood over a set period of time. The decrease in
electrical conductance (degree of intensity) as measured is directly proportional to the cell volume.
This size discrimination, along with susceptibility to various lysing agents distinguish the basic
cell types (red, whites, platelets).
B.2 Measurement Methods
This section provides an overview of the hematology measurement methods used by the analyzer.
B.2.1 Volumetric Impedance Method
The analyzer uses a volumetric impedance method of counting blood cells. The following figure
illustrates this method.
The principle of this method is that blood diluted with an isotonic solution (diluent) conducts elec-
tric current by ionic conduction. A counting chamber made of an insulating material (plastic) holds
this diluted blood, while a small circular hole (aperture) in this chamber allows the flow of diluted
blood. (The analyzer aperture diameter and length is 80 µm — the optimal size for veterinary
hematology.)
Placing two electrodes on the two sides of this aperture and applying constant electric current
causes the isotonic solution to conduct electricity, and allows a voltage to be measured on the aper-
ture.
B-2 Operating Principles
Applying pressure to the diluted sample causes it to flow through the aperture. When a cell is pass-
ing the aperture, a small change in electric impedance occurs, so that the voltage rises somewhat
and a small electric pulse occurs. The amplitude of this pulse is proportional to the ratio of the cell
volume (size) and the aperture volume: the bigger the cell, the higher the pulse.
Proper counting (or differentiation) of cells requires passing of only one cell through the aperture
at a time. To help ensure this, the blood samples must be diluted, since cell concentrations are oth-
erwise too high.
In cases of cell counts beyond the linear range, an external predilution of the sample is recom-
mended — see “Using Prediluted Mode” on page 4-21.
B.2.2 Diluting Whole Blood
The analyzer uses the following procedure to dilute the blood sample for processing:
Although diluted blood is used, in cases of extremely high concentrations (such as leu-kemia) WBC density can be 100x higher than normal, causing two or more cells to pass through the aperture at a time, generat-ing one pulse instead of two (or more). This is called coincidence, and results in non-lin-ear counting of cells. Flags m, M, and N appear in this case.
The WBC linearity range is 100 x 109 cells/l.
Operating Principles B-3
In this procedure, 25 µl of whole blood is diluted with 4 ml of diluent to form a 1:160 first dilution.
25 µl of this dilution is then mixed with 0.5 ml of lyse to form an overall 1:180 dilution, suitable
for measuring WBC and HGB. After WBC-HGB measurement, 25 µl of the first dilution is mixed
with 5 ml of diluent to form an overall 1:32000 dilution, suitable for measuring RBC and PLT.
B.2.3 Three-Part WBC Differential Method
Since RBCs are typically 1000 times more concentrated in normal blood than are WBCs, they
would interfere with WBC counting if left intact.
In addition, the analyzer directly measures HGB, which is inside the RBCs and so must be
extracted.
Therefore, a hemolysing reagent (lyse) is used to dissolve cellular membranes, thus destroying
RBCs, and creating a complex solution suitable for photometry of HGB and counting WBCs.
The following figure shows the changes in blood cell characteristics that occur during three-part
differential hemolysis.
The membranes of the WBCs become selectively permeable, so that they begin to shrink down to
their nuclei in the slightly hypertonic lyse solution. Effectively hemolysed samples contain WBC
particles in the 30–300 fl region (for veterinary species).
B-4 Operating Principles
The figure below shows a typical three-part differential WBC histogram of selective hemolysis
(dog).
B.3 Hemoglobin Determination
Hemoglobin is measured directly by means of the traditionally used cyanomethoglobin reaction,
but using cyanide-free substances to reach the same endpoint:
Fe 2+ converted to Fe 3+ methemoglobin + KCN cyanmethemoglobin
Hemoglobin concentration is measured photometrically.
B.3.1 Hemoglobin Determination by Photometry
HGB determination is one of the most important hematology parameters, as it relates to the oxygen
carrying capacity of blood.
The analyzer uses a cyanide-free lysing reagent to minimize environmental impact. The effect of
cyanide-free lyse is very similar to that of lyse containing cyanide, but the chemical reaction is
slightly different. The figure below illustrates the HGB measurement method.
HGB is measured by passing light (540 nm) through the WBC dilution, and measuring the transmitted light with a photo detector.
The light intensity (I) of the sample liquid is logarithmically proportional to the concen-tration of HGB:
HGB ≈ log (Ireference / Isample)
LYM GRAMON
Operating Principles B-5
B.4 Measured and Calculated Values
Each sample is analyzed to produce a complete, 18-parameter blood count (CBC), including the
following measured or calculated parameters:
■ WBC — total white blood cell count
■ LYM — lymphocytes count
■ MON — monocyte count*
■ GRA — granulocytes count
■ LYM% — lymphocyte percentage
■ MO% — monocyte* percentage
■ GRA% — granulocytes percentage
■ RBC — red blood cell count
■ HGB — hemoglobin
■ HCT — hematocrit
■ MCV — mean corpuscular volume
■ MCH — mean corpuscular hemoglobin
■ MCHC — mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration
■ RDWc — red cell distribution width
■ PLT — platelet count
■ PCT — platelet percentage
■ MPV — mean platelet volume
■ PDWc — platelet distribution width
* The monocyte category consists primarily of monocytes. Impedance counters categorize white blood cell types (differential) according to size, and therefore a certain percentage of eosinophils may have a mass that falls in the normal range for monocytes (the exact percentage depends on the individual animal and is generally inconsequential due to the very low numbers of eosino-phils in a healthy animal). Eosinophilias, however, can typically be visualized as a distinct peak between the monocyte range and the granulocyte peak on a histogram.
B-6 Operating Principles
B.5 Measured and Calculated Values
The HM2 measures and calculates the following values from tested blood samples.
Table B-1: Measured and Calculated Values
Values Definitions
White Blood Cells — WBC(reportable as: cells/l, cells/µl)
Total number of leukocytes (white blood cells).• WBC = WBCcal x (cells/l, cells/µl)
Red Blood Cells — RBC(reportable as: cells/l, cells/µl)
Total number of erythrocytes (red blood cells).• RBC = RBCcal x (cells/l, cells/µl)
Hemoglobin concentration — HGB(reportable as: g/dl, g/l, mmol/l)
Measured photometrically at 540 nm (see page B-2 for details).• HGB = HGBcal x (HGBmeasured – HGBblank)
Mean Corpuscular Volume — MCV (fl) Average volume of individual erythrocytes derived from the RBC histogram.
Hematocrit — HCT(reportable as: percentage, absolute)
Also known as Packed Cell Volume (PCV).Calculated from the RBC and MCV values:• HCTpercentage = RBC x MCV / 10• HCTabsolute = RBC x MCV
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin —MCH (reportable as: picogram, fmol)
Average hemoglobin content of erythrocytes, calculated from RBC and HGB values:• MCH = HGB / RBC
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concen-tration — MCHC (reportable as: g/dl, g/l, mmol/l)
Calculated from the HGB and HCT values:• MCHC = HGB / HCTabsolute
Red Cell Distribution Width —(reportable as: RDW-SD [fl], RDW-CV [absolute])
Measure of the degree of RBC anisocytosis. Calculated using the distribution width of the erythrocyte or platelet population derived from the histogram at 20% of peak:
Platelet — PLT(reportable as: cells/l, cells/µl)
Number of thrombocytes (platelets).• PLT = PLTcal x (cells/l, cells/µl)
Mean Platelet Volume — MPV (fl) Average volume of individual platelets derived from the PLT histogram.
Platelet Distribution Width —(reportable as: PDW-SD [fl], PDW-CV [absolute])
Measure of the degree of platelet anisocytosis.
Platelet Hematocrit (Thrombocrit) — PCT (reportable as: percentage, absolute)
Calculated from the PLT and MPV values:• PCTpercentage = PLT x MPV x 100• PCTabsolute = PLT x MPV
Operating Principles B-7
White Blood Cell Differential:LYM, LYM%: lymphocytesMON, MON%: monocytesGRA, GRA%: neutrophil, eosinophil and basophil granulocytes
Absolute values counted in the channels determined by the three WBC discriminators:
Percentages calculated from the absolute WBC value.
Values Definitions
LYMMON
GRA
B-8 Operating Principles
Appendix C
Potential Sample InterferencesTable C-1 lists situations in which substances in the samples themselvescan interfere with accurate analysis, and provides possible solutions.
Potential Sample Interferences C-1
Tabl
e C
-1:
Int
rins
ic S
ubst
ance
s: P
oten
tial
Sam
ple-
Indu
ced
Inte
rfer
ence
s
Sam
ple
Co
nd
itio
nIn
dic
ato
rsR
esu
lts
Aff
ecte
dC
ause
sS
olu
tio
ns
Lipe
mia
•C
loud
y, w
hite
pla
sma.
•H
igh
MC
HC
.In
crea
sed
HG
B,
MC
HC
, MC
H.
RB
Cs
may
be
smud
ged
on
bloo
d fil
m.
Non
-fas
ted
sam
ple
Red
raw
fast
ed s
ampl
e.
Met
abol
ic d
isor
dera
Use
RB
C, P
CV,
MC
V, a
nd R
DW
rat
her
than
HG
B, M
CH
, MC
HC
val
ues
to a
sses
s an
emia
.
Hem
olys
isP
ink
or r
ed p
lasm
a.•
Dec
reas
ed
RB
C, P
CV
•D
ecre
ased
M
CH
C
Trau
mat
ic
veni
punc
ture
Red
raw
w/ c
lean
ven
ipun
ctur
e.
Hem
olyt
ic a
nem
iaN
/A
Clu
mpe
d pl
atel
ets
•D
ecre
ased
pla
tele
t cou
nt w
/ pla
tele
t cl
umps
ofte
n vi
sibl
e on
blo
od s
mea
r or
ap
plic
ator
stic
k di
pped
in s
ampl
e.•
Ris
ing
left
side
of l
ymph
ocyt
e cu
rve.
•S
mal
l pal
e cl
ots
stic
k to
woo
den
appl
icat
or s
tick
swirl
ed in
sam
ple.
Dec
reas
ed P
LT+
/- in
crea
sed
WB
C
Trau
mat
ic
veni
punc
ture
or
felin
e sp
ecie
s
Red
raw
; col
lect
blo
od in
ant
i-coa
gula
ted
syrin
ge o
r us
e va
cuta
iner
sys
tem
; inv
ert
tube
sev
eral
tim
es im
med
iate
ly a
fter
fillin
g; v
orte
x sa
mpl
e im
med
iate
ly b
efor
e te
stin
g.
Exc
ess
ED
TA
(und
er-f
illed
tube
)F
ill tu
be a
t lea
st h
alfw
ay, o
r re
mov
e po
rtio
n of
ED
TA b
efor
e fil
ling
tube
.
Mis
cella
neou
s/
idio
path
icU
se a
ltern
ativ
e an
ti-co
agul
ant a
s he
parin
or
citr
ate;
vor
tex
sam
ple
imm
edia
tely
pr
ior
to s
ampl
ing.
Gia
nt p
late
lets
Rig
ht s
ide
of p
late
let h
isto
gram
run
s in
to
RB
C h
isto
gram
.D
ecre
ased
PLT
, de
crea
sed
MP
VT
hrom
bopo
iesi
s,
felin
e sp
ecie
sC
onfir
m p
late
let e
stim
ate
on s
mea
r an
d/or
man
ual p
late
let c
ount
.
Clo
tted
sam
ple
•V
isib
le c
lot i
n sa
mpl
e.•
Red
clo
t(s)
stic
k to
woo
den
appl
icat
or
stic
k sw
irled
in s
ampl
e.•
Pla
tele
t clu
mps
may
or
may
not
be
visi
ble
on b
lood
sm
ear.
Dec
reas
ed P
LT,
decr
ease
d W
BC
, an
d/or
dec
reas
ed
RB
C (
varie
s w
ith
clot
siz
e)
Trau
mat
ic
veni
punc
ture
and
/or
del
ayed
tran
sfer
to
ant
i-coa
gula
nt
Red
raw
with
cle
an v
enip
unct
ure;
use
va
cuta
iner
sys
tem
or
anti-
coag
ulat
ed
syrin
ge; m
ix c
olle
ctio
n tu
be b
y m
ultip
le
inve
rsio
ns im
med
iate
ly a
fter
fillin
g.
Clo
tted
sam
ple
may
clo
g th
e sa
mpl
e ne
edle
.
Lyse
-res
ista
nt
RB
Cs
Ris
ing
left
side
of l
ymph
ocyt
e cu
rve.
Incr
ease
d W
BC
, in
crea
sed
Lym
phs
Idio
path
ic (
mos
t co
mm
only
with
fe
lines
)
Lyse
vol
ume
may
be
adju
sted
for
the
sam
ple
(for
add
ition
al in
form
atio
n,
cont
act A
baxi
s Te
chni
cal S
uppo
rt —
see
pa
ge1-
2).
a).D
iabe
tes
mel
litus
, nep
hrot
ic s
yndr
ome,
hyp
othy
roid
ism
, lip
opro
tein
lipa
se d
efic
ienc
y, a
cute
pan
crea
titis
, cho
lest
asis
, hyp
erad
reno
cort
icis
m, h
yper
chol
este
role
mia
in
bria
rds,
idio
path
ic h
yper
lipid
emia
of m
inia
ture
sch
nauz
ers.
C-2 Potential Sample Interferences
Appendix D
Veterinary Case StudiesThe following pages present a variety of veterinary case studies.Appendix Contents
D.1 Human Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-2
D.2 Dogs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-3
D.2.1 Dog: Normal Sample. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-3
D.2.2 Dog: High LYM%, Low GRA% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-4
D.2.3 Dog: High PLT, High GRA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-5
D.2.4 Dog: Low PLT, High WBC and GRA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-6
D.2.5 Dog: High RBC and HGB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-7
D.2.6 Dog: Low RBC and PLT, high WBC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-8
D.2.7 Dog: Eosinophilia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-9
D.3 Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-10
D.3.1 Cat: Optimal Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-10
D.3.2 Cat: Low PLT and RBC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-11
D.3.3 Cat: Clumped/Aggregated Platelets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-12
D.3.4 Cat: High WBC and GRA, Low RBC, HCT, and HGB D-12
D.3.5 Cat: Possible nRBCs and Clumped Platelets . . . . . . . . D-13
D.4 Horses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-15
D.4.1 Horse: Normal Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-15
D.4.2 Horse: Low LYM%, High GRA%. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-16
D.4.3 Horse: Low PLT and MPV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-17
D.4.4 Horse: Low RBC and HGB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-18
Veterinary Case Studies D-1
D.1 Human Control
The following report shows typical histograms of normal human control blood (that is, human con-
trol run in QC mode).
Note the differences in cell populations: human sample and control blood contains larger cells than
does animal blood.
D-2 Veterinary Case Studies
D.2 Dogs
Dog samples show RBC peaks around 60-70 fl with a good separation of the PLTs from the RBCs.
Canine lymphocyte populations (lymphocytes, monocytes, and granulocytes) can overlap as a
result of similar cell sizes.
D.2.1 Dog: Normal Sample
The following shows a normal dog histogram.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — All cells larger than 39 fl are counted as WBCs (indicated by discriminator 1).
Discriminators 2 and 3 show the MON population.
■ RBC — All cells larger than 25 fl are counted as RBCs. The RBC histogram follows a
normal distribution. The expected MCV is near 60 fl, and the expected RBC is near
7 x 1012 cells/l.
■ PLT — PLT cell population is between 2 and 25 fl. The PLT histogram follows a log-
normal distribution.
Veterinary Case Studies D-3
D.2.2 Dog: High LYM%, Low GRA%
The following shows a sample that has high LYM%. (LYM% is normally near 25–30% for dogs.)
This case shows a lymphocytosis.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — High LYM%, low GRA%.
■ RBC — Normal.
■ PLT — Normal.
D-4 Veterinary Case Studies
D.2.3 Dog: High PLT, High GRA
In this sample, the absolute value of GRA and PLT is high, and the LYM population is much
smaller than the GRA population. This case demonstrates a neutrophilia and thrombocytosis.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Three-part differential curve with good separation between populations.
■ RBC — Normal.
■ PLT — High PLT. (Note that the RBC histogram shows that the peak of the PLT curve,
to the left of the RBC discriminator, is higher than normal.)
Veterinary Case Studies D-5
D.2.4 Dog: Low PLT, High WBC and GRA
This sample shows a very low PLT, while the WBC is high due to an extremely high GRA. This
case demonstrates a neutropenia and thrombocytosis.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Discriminator 1 is at 53 fl, accurately separating the RBC/PLT region. Discrim-
inators 2 and 3 are placed correctly according to the WBC population.
■ RBC — Normal. Note that the PLT curve is very flat.
■ PLT — Very low PLT.
D-6 Veterinary Case Studies
D.2.5 Dog: High RBC and HGB
This sample shows a slightly high RBC and HGB, while the WBC and PLT are normal.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Discriminator 1 is at 56 fl, accurately separating the RBC/PLT region. Discrim-
inators 2 and 3 are placed correctly according to the WBC population.
■ RBC — Slightly high RBC, normal distribution.
■ PLT — Normal, with a perfect discriminator at 25 fl.
Veterinary Case Studies D-7
D.2.6 Dog: Low RBC and PLT, high WBC
This sample shows low RBC, PLT, HGB, and HCT values. The WBC is high due to a high GRA
population. This case demonstrates anemia and neutrophilia.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Discriminator 1 is at 45 fl, accurately separating the RBC/PLT region. Discrim-
inators 2 and 3 are placed correctly according to the WBC population.
■ RBC — Very low RBC, with a normal distribution, indicating anemia.
■ PLT — Low PLT.
D-8 Veterinary Case Studies
D.2.7 Dog: Eosinophilia
This sample demonstrates an eosinophilic canine patient.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — The histogram indicates a normal WBC accompanied by an absolute lym-
phopenia and relative granulocytosis. The presence of the secondary eosinophil peak
(indicated by the arrow) indicates a eosinophil count higher than normal, and a need for
a manual blood smear.
Veterinary Case Studies D-9
D.3 Cats
An important characteristic of cat blood is that the RBCs are much smaller than those of dogs (20–
50 fl, MCV = 35–40 fl), potentially causing the RBC and PLT histograms to overlap slightly.
Cats also commonly demonstrate both platelet aggregation and giant platelets. The analyzer mini-
mizes these effects with a proprietary technology and dynamic discriminator approach to maxi-
mize accuracy.
A good practice when taking blood from cats is to discard the first few drops of the sample. This
can prevent hair and skin pieces from getting into the sample. Some clinics have minimized stress-
induced platelet aggregation by collection from the saphenous vein using a vacutainer. Pre-analyti-
cal vortex mixing (up to 30 seconds) also helps disaggregate platelets, with no deleterious effects.
D.3.1 Cat: Optimal Sample
The following shows an optimal normal cat sample.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Normal.
■ RBC — Normal.
■ PLT — Optimal: the PLT is well separated from the RBC.
D-10 Veterinary Case Studies
D.3.2 Cat: Low PLT and RBC
This sample demonstrates a very low PLT, and a typical feline WBC histogram.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Normal. (Note that the WBC histogram at discriminator 1 is high, indicating
the presence of lyse-resistive RBCs.)
■ RBC — Slightly low RBC, with a correct distribution.
■ PLT — Very low PLT.
Veterinary Case Studies D-11
D.3.3 Cat: Clumped/Aggregated Platelets
The following samples show normal and clumped platelets, respectively:
D.3.4 Cat: High WBC and GRA, Low RBC, HCT, and HGB
The results for this cat indicate anemia and leukocytosis.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Discriminators are set correctly, showing a high GRA population.
■ RBC — Normal distribution, low RBC.
■ PLT — Discriminators are set correctly, showing a slightly low PLT.
Normal Clumped
D-12 Veterinary Case Studies
D.3.5 Cat: Possible nRBCs and Clumped Platelets
This sample demonstrates a patient that may have nucleated RBCs and clumped platelets.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Rising left side of the histogram may indicate nucleated RBCs, or highly lyse-
resistant RBCs, which can be present in feline samples.
■ RBC — Normal distribution.
■ PLT — Flattened, lumpy histogram indicates aggregated (clumped) platelets.
Veterinary Case Studies D-13
D.3.6 Cat: Eosinophilia
This sample demonstrates an eosinophilic feline patient.
Cat eosinophils can appear as a “shoulder” (indicated by the arrow) on the main granulocyte peak.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Leukocytosis with an absolute granulocytosis and a relative monocytosis. All
cases of granulocytosis with an atypical histogram should be evaluated with a manual
blood smear.
■ RBC — Normal, with normal distribution.
D-14 Veterinary Case Studies
D.4 Horses
Horse samples typically show a good separation of PLT/RBC, and well-separated WBC popula-
tions. The MCV is relatively low, while the RBC is high — around 10x1012 cells/l — giving a cor-
rect HCT near 40%.
D.4.1 Horse: Normal Sample
The following shows a typical normal sample for a horse:
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — WBC value is normal, and the discriminators are set accurately.
■ RBC — Normal. (Compare dog and horse histograms to see the smaller cells in the
horse.)
■ PLT — PLT is correct. (Note the good separation at the PLT/RBC discriminator.)
Veterinary Case Studies D-15
D.4.2 Horse: Low LYM%, High GRA%
The following is a typical horse sample with a low LYM content.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Slightly low LYM% and a high GRA%. Discriminators are set accurately.
■ RBC — Normal.
■ PLT — Normal. (Note the good separation from RBCs.)
D-16 Veterinary Case Studies
D.4.3 Horse: Low PLT and MPV
In some cases, the PLT will be low. You can compare the height of the PLT peak to the RBC peak
on the RBC histogram. Low MPV is typical for horse samples, because their PLTs are small.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — Normal WBC, with accurately placed discriminators.
■ RBC — Normal.
■ PLT — Low PLT (and MPV). (Note that the valley between the PLT and RBC popula-
tions is well defined, indicating that the PLT value is correct.)
Veterinary Case Studies D-17
D.4.4 Horse: Low RBC and HGB
This case shows a normal sample, with a slightly low RBC and HGB. It also shows good separa-
tion of the WBC populations from the RBC and from each other.
These histograms indicate the following:
■ WBC — WBC is well separated histogram from the RBC. Clear populations, good
WBC differentials.
■ RBC — Slightly low RBC (HCT) and HGB, indicating possible anemia.
■ PLT — Normal. (Note the good separation from RBCs.)
D-18 Veterinary Case Studies
Appendix E
Glossary■ AnemiaAnemia with reticulocytosis or polychromasia is described as regenera-tive or responsive. This type of anemia occurs when the bone marrow is actively producing red blood cells (RBCs). Findings that indicate regenerative anemia include polychromasia, reticulocytosis, and hyper-cellular bone marrow with a low myeloid:erythroid ratio. The presence of regeneration suggests blood loss or RBC destruction. Regenerative anemia also denotes that sufficient time has elapsed for regeneration to occur (two to three days), that there are adequate blood-forming ele-ments (iron, appropriate vitamins, protein) for regeneration, that there are enough erythrocytic colonies in the bone marrow, and that there is adequate kidney function to form erythropoietin.
■ Anemia, Macrocytic Hypochromic
Macrocytic, hypochromic anemia is characterized by abnormally large red blood cells (RBCs) containing subnormal amounts of hemoglobin. It is seen after acute blood loss or hemolysis. This type of anemia indi-cates marked RBC regeneration, but several days must elapse before this response is noted. Production of reticulocytes in response to ane-mia contributes to the pallor, increased mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and decreased mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC).
■ Anemia, Microcytic Hypochromic
Microcytic, hypochromic anemia is characterized by abnormally small red blood cells (RBCs) containing subnormal amounts of hemoglobin. It is caused by iron deficiency, impaired iron metabolism, or iron deple-tion from chronic blood loss. In rare cases, portosystemic shunts and chronic inflammation cause this type of anemia.
■ Anemia, Non-regenerative
Anemia without reticulocytosis or polychromasia is described as non-regenerative. During the first two or three days after hemorrhage or hemolysis, anemia may be non-regenerative. The slight anemias of dis-ease can also be non-regenerative. When no response is seen for several days, a primary or a secondary bone marrow disorder is indicated.
■ Anisocytosis
Anisocytosis is a variation in red blood cell (RBC) size without a change in cell shape. Slight anisocytosis occurs normally in cats and dogs, and by itself is not diagnostic. In moderate to marked anisocyto-sis, RBCs can be macrocytic or microcytic. Microcytic RBCs occur in immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, microvascular constriction, early Heinz-body anemia, and iron-deficiency anemia. Macrocytic RBCs occur with regenerative anemia and rarely with erythrocytic leukemia. Since macrocytes raise the mean corpuscular volume (MCV), if micro-cytic anemia is also a regenerative anemia (such as occurs with Heinz-body anemia), the MCV is normal but the smear shows marked aniso-cytosis.
Glossary E-1
■ Band Cells (stab cells)
The band cell (also called a stab cell) is an immature neutrophil occasionally found circulating in peripheral blood. An increase in the absolute number of bands indicates increased demand due to inflammation. Increased numbers are termed a “left shift.” Slight increases in bands (300–1,000/ml) can occur in non-suppurative diseases, such as hemorrhagic or granulomatous disease. Bands in excess of 1,000/ml indicate an intense purulent exudative process. Human labs often misdiagnose canine neutrophils as band cells because the canine neutrophil is less lobulated than the human neu-trophil.
■ Basophils
Basophils and tissue mast cells contain granules of histamine and heparin. These substances initiate inflammation, prevent coagulation, and activate lipoprotein lipase. Basophils can be seen with a vari-ety of diseases, while the presence of many mast cells on a blood smear signifies mast-cell neoplasia. Mast cells and basophils are similar in appearance because both contain purple metachromatic gran-ules. Mast-cell granules usually stain intensely and are often numerous enough to obscure the nucleus. Canine and feline basophils contain fewer dark granules. The granules in feline basophils stain light blue and are often missing from the cytoplasm, making them difficult to identify on blood films. Basophils have a tri-lobed nucleus, similar to that of neutrophils. Mast cells have a single, round nucleus.
■ Blood Indices
Anemia occurs when the number of circulating RBCs is below the normal level for the age, sex, and breed of the species. The laboratory identifies anemia by low values for the PCV, hemoglobin, and RBC count. Anemias are classified by response, cause, and cell characteristics such as cell size, shape. and hemoglobin concentration. The red blood cell indices consist of the mean corpuscular vol-ume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), which are used to determine the type of anemia. Red cell indices are estimations of the size and cellular hemoglobin concentration of a population of RBCs. Determining the type of anemia can help select appropriate therapy and monitor therapy progress. Automated blood analyzers often have a built-in function that determines one or more of the indices; the remaining indices are then calcu-lated from determined values. The values can be calculated by knowing the PCV, hemoglobin level, and RBC count. The MCHC and MCH are high at birth, but decrease to adult values in two months.
■ Differential White Blood Cell Count
In a differential WBC count, the number of each leukocytic cell type is reported as a percentage of the total WBC count. To determine absolute numbers of each cell type, individual (100–200) WBCs are identified and reported as a percentage of the total WBC count. This percentage is then multiplied by the total WBC count to obtain absolute numbers of each cell type. The five-part traditional system classifies the cells into neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Immature forms are classified separately.
The analyzer gives a three-part differential count. It groups the granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils), but differentiates the lymphocytes and monocytes. A Percent Differential reports each cell type and a percent of the total count. An absolute differential count multiplies the percent count by the number of total WBCs. A good hand count evaluates 100–200 cells, but a machine count eval-uates several thousand. An absolute count is determined by multiplying the percent of each cell by the total white blood cell count, and provides a more accurate representation of the circulating cells.
■ Eosinophils
Eosinophils are WBCs with numerous functions. They are parasiticidal, help regulate allergic and inflammatory responses by inhibiting mast cell release of histamine and serotonin, detoxify histamine at the site of antigen-antibody reactions, regulate the intensity of IgE reactions, and have some phago-cytic activity against invading bacteria. Their granules contain potent cytotoxic proteins and lipids that are active in almost all types of inflammation and tissue injury. Eosinophils are easily recognized on stained blood smears by their large yellow-orange granules. They normally occur in small numbers in peripheral blood.
E-2 Glossary
■ Fibrin
Fibrin is a filamentous protein that is formed when the blood clots. It is deposited in filaments that entangle with blood cells and platelets to form a clot.
■ Granulocytes
Granulocytes are WBCs that contain cytoplasmic granules. These include neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. These cells are produced in the bone marrow. Increased granulocyte counts normally indicate a neutrophilia, and decreased counts indicate a neutropenia.
■ Hematocrit
The terms hematocrit (HCT) and packed cell volume (PCV) are used interchangeably to indicate the percent of red blood cells in a unit of whole blood. The analyzer calculates the HCT, which is equiva-lent to the manual centrifuge packing of red cells done for the PVC. When a blood sample is centri-fuged (spun hematocrit), it separates into three layers: an upper layer of plasma, a middle layer of WBCs and thrombocytes (buffy coat), and a bottom layer of packed RBCs. Technically, the hemat-ocrit is a measure of all cellular elements of blood (WBCs, thrombocytes, and RBCs), but by common usage it has become synonymous with PCV. See also “Packed Cell Volume (PCV)” on page E-6.
■ Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin (Hb) is the oxygen-carrying pigment formed by developing RBCs in the bone marrow. The hemoglobin value of a blood sample is approximately one-third of the PCV. Variations from this indicate a laboratory error, hemolysis, or abnormalities such as Heinz bodies or lipemia. Altered hemoglobin can form Heinz bodies or crystals. Determination of hemoglobin provides no clinical advantage over measurement of the PCV, other than allowing the determination of mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC).
■ Immature Red Blood Cell (RBC)
Immature RBCs include reticulocytes and nucleated red blood cells. Reticulocytes are indicated on the analyzer by a high mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and high red cell distribution width (RDW). Occasionally, immature cells retain their nuclei and are counted by the analyzer as WBCs.
■ Left Shift
The term left shift indicates increased numbers of circulating immature neutrophils (band cells, meta-myelocytes, myelocytes). These cells cannot be differentiated by automatic cell counters. A regenera-tive left shift is characterized by band cells and increased numbers of mature neutrophils. The number of immature neutrophils does not exceed 10% of the mature neutrophils, and no young cells (such as metamyelocytes) are present. A degenerative left shift is characterized by circulating band cells that exceed 10% of the segmented neutrophils, in conjunction with decreased numbers of neutrophils or the presence of very young cells, such as metamyelocytes or myelocytes. In a degenerative left shift, the total WBC count can vary from below normal to slightly above normal. A degenerative left shift is an unfavorable prognostic sign. Left shift must be determined by visual inspection of a blood smear (slide).
■ Leukemia
Leukemia implies neoplastic cells in the peripheral blood. It can occur in myeloproliferative and lym-phoproliferative diseases. In myeloproliferative diseases, immature precursers of red blood cells — granulocytes — are seen on stained blood smears. In lymphoproliferative diseases, large numbers of immature lymphocytes are present in peripheral blood smears.
■ Leukocytes
Leukocytes — “white blood cells” — are classified as neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes, lympho-cytes, or basophils. These include the granulocytes and the mononuclear cells of the lymphoid sys-tem. A total WBC count is the sum of all leukocytes.
Glossary E-3
■ Leukocytosis
Leukocytosis is an increased number of WBCs. It is usually caused by an increase in the number of circulating neutrophils (neutrophilia), though lymphocytosis (especially with leukemia) occasionally produces leukocytosis. Absolute values of individual WBC types provide much more diagnostic spec-ificity than a simple WBC count. Exercise, fear, and digestion cause physiologic leukocytosis. Infec-tion, rapidly growing neoplasms, acute hemolysis, hemorrhage, intoxication, leukemia and trauma cause pathologic leukocytosis.
■ Leukopenia
Leukopenia indicates a decreased total WBC count. It is usually characterized by decreased numbers of circulating neutrophils. The most common causes of leukopenia are excessive consumption in an inflammatory process and primary bone marrow disease. Persistent leukopenia is a poor prognostic sign.
■ Lymphocytes
Lymphocytes in the blood are a mixed population of B-cells and T-cells. They are the major cellular component of immunity in the body. B-lymphocytes synthesize antibodies that are responsible for humoral immunity. T-lymphocytes are the principal component of cellular immunity. Lymphocytes also participate in immune regulation and surveillance, and some are cytotoxic.
■ Lymphocytosis
Lymphocytosis indicates increased numbers of circulating lymphocytes. Pathologic lymphocytosis occurs in chronic inflammation, recovery from acute infection, lymphocytic leukemia, and hypoa-drenocorticism. Lymphocytosis usually indicates a strong immune stimulus of some chronic duration from a bacterial infection, viremia, or immune-mediated disease. Lymphocytic leukemia may or may not be accompanied by lymphocytosis.
Lymphocytosis not associated with disease occurs with physiologic leukocytosis, from excitement in healthy cats, from immature age-related responses in young puppies and kittens, and sometimes fol-lowing vaccination.
■ Lymphopenia
Lymphopenia indicates decreased numbers of circulating lymphocytes. It can occur with acute severe disease, some viral diseases (canine distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and coronavirus infections, feline panleukopenia, and FeLV infection), stress-related corticosteroid response, and loss of lymph into the gut (chylothorax, lymphangiectasia).
■ Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)
The MCV is the average volume of a single RBC. It is determined by direct measurement with an electronic cell counter such as the analyzer. Increases are usually due to reticulocytes and indicate a responsive anemia.
■ Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)
The MCH is the average amount of hemoglobin in each RBC. This calculated index is increased with hemolysis. Decreases are termed hypochromasia, and are seen with reticulocytosis and iron defi-ciency.
■ Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)
MCHC measures the average concentration of hemoglobin in RBCs. Increases are usually caused by hemolysis. Decreases are termed hypochromasia and are seen in reticulocytosis and iron deficiency anemia.
E-4 Glossary
■ Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)
The MPV is a machine calculation of platelet size. In thrombocytopenic dogs, increased mean platelet volume gives indirect evidence of increased megakaryocyte response. High mean volume (>12 fl) indicates increased response, but decreased volume (<12 fl) is not accurate in predicting lack of bone marrow megakaryocyte production.
■ Monocytes
Monocytes are the immature blood stage of tissue macrophages. Increased numbers occur in response to inflammation. Their main function is phagocytosis of foreign material, cellular debris, and patho-gens that are not effectively controlled by neutrophils. They engulf intracellular organisms and those causing a granulomatous inflammatory response. They are effective scavengers, removing tissue debris, cellular remnants, and foreign material. Monocytes are also active in regulating the immune response, processing antigen, and activating killer cells and macrophages. Monocytes are the most commonly misidentified leukocyte in blood smears, often being placed into the lymphocyte category.
■ Monocytosis
Increased numbers of circulating monocytes (monocytosis) occur in chronic suppurative, pyogranulo-matous, necrotic, malignant, hemolytic, hemorrhagic, or immune-mediated diseases. Monocytosis also occurs in dogs as a corticosteroid-induced response from stress, adrenal hyperfunction, or exoge-nous corticosteroids. Some animals with chronic disease have persistent monocytosis. Decreased numbers of circulating monocytes (monocytopenia) is rare and has no diagnostic significance.
■ Neutrophils
Neutrophils phagocytize and kill microorganisms. They also initiate and modify the acute inflamma-tory process, cause tissue damage, and are cytotoxic. Production and storage in the bone marrow, margination of cells in the capillary beds, and the demands of peripheral tissues affect the numbers of circulating neutrophils.
■ Neutropenia
Neutropenia indicates decreased numbers of circulating neutrophils. It can be due to insufficient pro-duction or increased destruction of neutrophils. Conditions that cause neutropenia include endotox-emia, viral infections, overwhelming bacterial infections, and administration of drugs that cause bone marrow suppression.
■ Neutrophilia
Neutrophilia indicates increased numbers of circulating neutrophils. It can be physiologically induced by exercise and corticosteroids, or pathologically induced by infections and tissue destruction. The primary differential diagnoses for neutrophilia are inflammation (septic or non-septic), stress, exer-cise, or excitement.
■ Nucleated Red Blood Cells (nRBC)
Nucleated RBCs (nRBCs) are larger and less mature than reticulocytes and mature RBCs. These immature, nucleated stages of the erythrocyte generally occur within the bone marrow, and are rarely observed in the peripheral blood of normal dogs and cats. They appear as metarubricytes in small numbers in response to acute blood loss or anemia. Nucleated RBCs without concurrent anemia or reticulocytosis are a sign of disease. They are found in splenic disease, extramedullary hemopoiesis, lead poisoning, hyperadrenocorticism, leukemia, and bone marrow disease. Circulating nucleated RBCs can be metarubricytes or younger cells, such as rubricytes. RBCs of birds and reptiles are all nucleated and cannot be accurately measured by automated systems (nucleated RBCs are counted as WBCs).
Glossary E-5
■ Packed Cell Volume (PCV)
The packed cell volume (PCV) and hematocrit (HCT) are measures of RBC numbers, expressed as a percentage of the total volume of blood. By common usage, the PCV has become synonymous with the HCT. Traditionally, the PCV is obtained by centrifuging an anti-coagulated blood sample (spun crit); automated counters (including the HM2) calculate this value from the measured mean corpuscu-lar volume (MCV) and RBC count. This is why laboratory values can differ slightly from in-clinic values. The column of packed RBCs (PCV) is measured in millimeters and expressed as a percentage of the total blood volume. Anemia exists when the PCV falls below the reference range for the spe-cies. Hemoconcentration can exist when the PCV exceeds the reference range. There is normally a 3:1 ratio of PCV to hemoglobin value.
■ Platelet Clumping
Platelet clumping is an aggregation of thrombocytes that produces inaccurate counts with electronic counters. This is caused by activation of the platelets by poor collection technique, but can occur spontaneously in cats. Careful collection, pre-analytical vortex mixing (up to 30 seconds), and prompt testing minimizes problems associated with platelet aggregation.
The histogram may show an abnormal distribution of large cells, indicating platelet clumping. Because of clumping in samples, reference labs usually give only an estimation of platelet numbers as seen on blood smears. An adequate count of 8–10 platelets per 100x objective field would suggest platelet numbers greater than 150,000. Thrombocytopenic slides show < 7 per 100x objective, indi-cating counts less than 100,000. Platelet aggregation/clumping often results in a flattened, lumpy PLT histogram.
■ Platelet Count
Counts below 100,000/ml are significant. Platelets can be counted directly, or estimated from the blood smear (>5 per oil-immersion field). Decreased platelet numbers (thrombocytopenia) occur with disseminated intravascular coagulation, bone marrow depression, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, systemic lupus erythematosus, and severe hemorrhage. Thrombocytosis (increased platelet numbers) is caused by excess bleeding (from trauma, blood sucking parasites, or neoplasia), iron deficiency anemia, and myeloproliferative syndromes.
■ Platelet Distribution Width (PDW)
Platelet distribution width (PDW) is a measure of platelet anisocytosis (variation in size). A mixture of large and small platelets can give a normal mean platelet volume (MPV) but a high PDW. This would indicate active platelet release.
■ Platelets (Thrombocytes)
Platelets (thrombocytes) are small, flat disks produced by megakaryocytes. They adhere to exposed subendothelial collagen within seconds of injury to form a hemostatic plug. Low platelet counts pre-dispose an animal to hemorrhage.
■ Poikilocytes
Poikilocytes are abnormally shaped RBCs. Poikilocyte is a general term that encompasses all catego-ries of abnormal RBC shapes, including more specific terms such as echinocyte, acanthocyte, schizo-cyte, and crenation. RBC distortion can occur with improperly prepared blood films and should not be confused with poikilocytosis. Poikilocytosis is a non-specific change seen in chronic blood loss, iron-deficiency anemia, diseases characterized by RBC fragmentation, and chronic lead poisoning. A stained blood smear will show the abnormally shaped RBCs.
E-6 Glossary
■ Polycythemia
Polycythemia is an increase in the red cell mass of the blood. This is seen as an increase in PCV, hemoglobin concentration, and RBC count. Absolute polycythemia results from increased bone mar-row production of RBCs, and can be primary, as with polycythemia vera or myeloproliferative dis-ease, or secondary to hypoxia and renal disease. Absolute polycythemia must be distinguished from relative polycythemia that occurs with dehydration (high plasma protein), hypovolemia (low plasma protein), shock, or splenic contraction (normal plasma protein).
■ Red Blood Cell Count (RBC)
Red blood cells (RBCs) transport oxygen from the lungs to body tissues. Their production is stimu-lated by erythropoietin, secretion of which is controlled by blood oxygen tension. Erythropoietin stimulates maturation of RBC precursors in bone marrow into mature RBCs. Blood loss, parasitism, renal failure, RBC damage, chronic inflammatory disease, hematopoietic malignancies, and insuffi-cient dietary iron, copper, or vitamin B12 cause a deficiency of RBCs (anemia). Shock, fluid loss, or increased RBC production can cause increased RBC numbers (polycythemia). Dehydration or protein fluid extravasation causes a relative decrease in the fluid portion of the blood and a relative increase in the cellular portion. Carbon monoxide, lung disease, heart disease, and high altitude cause excessive RBC production by stimulating erythropoietin secretion. Erythrocytic malignancies and polycythemia vera cause excessive RBC production without normal stimulation.
■ Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)
The red cell distribution width is an electronic measure of anisocytosis (variation of cell size). RDW increases where the degree of anisocytosis is increased. In regenerative anemia, RDW increases when large cells are produced even before the MCV exceeds the reference range. It also increases when small cells are produced as with iron deficiency anemia.
■ Reticulocytes
Reticulocytes are immature RBCs without a nucleus. They retain a fine network of endoplasmic retic-ulum that stains with reticulocyte stains. These immature cells are slightly larger than mature RBCs, and normally circulate in small numbers. Elevated numbers of circulating reticulocytes (reticulocyto-sis) occur in chronic hemorrhagic or hemolytic anemia with increased erythropoiesis. A lack of circu-lating reticulocytes in chronic anemia indicates bone marrow depression. Reticulocytosis without evidence of anemia can indicate reduced blood oxygenation, which leads to increased erythropoietin levels, which in turn stimulate erythropoiesis and release of reticulocytes from the bone marrow. Reticulocytes are not counted by the analyzer, but are suggested by a high MCV and possibly an ele-vated RDW. When present, this indicates that the animal is responding to blood loss by increased red cell regeneration.
■ Right Shift
The term right shift indicates increased numbers of circulating hypermature neutrophils in neutro-philic blood samples. These are cells showing hypersegmentation. This is usually seen in non-infec-tious inflammatory processes, such as inflammation secondary to a malignancy. Right shift must be determined by visual inspection of a blood smear (slide).
■ 3x Rule: Hemoglobin x 3 = Hematocrit (± 2%)
In normal blood samples, the hemoglobin is approximately one-third the hematocrit. This relationship can be used to cross-check the accuracy of the blood counts. If abnormal, the sample should be checked for hemolysis or Heinz bodies.
Glossary E-7
■ White Blood Cell Count (WBC)
The total WBC count combines circulating numbers of neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosino-phils and basophils. Because neutrophils are the predominant leukocytic cell type, a high total WBC count (leukocytosis) is generally due to an increase in this cell line. However, absolute values of indi-vidual leukocytic cell lines (found by performing a differential count and multiplying each cell line percentage by the total WBC count) often provides more diagnostic specificity. Leukopenia (decreased WBCs) is generally evident only with a decrease in neutrophils. Leukocytosis and leuko-penia occur with a variety of diseases. Normal ranges for total WBC counts are printed by the ana-lyzer and should be similar to textbook ranges.
Note: The analyzer groups neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils into the single category of Granu-locytes.
E-8 Glossary
Index
AAbaxis
Technical Support 1-2website 1-2
Analysis procedure 4-7Anisocytosis B-7Aperture, cleaning 7-5
BBasophils 4-14, 4-23, B-8Blank measurements
flags 9-2running 4-5
Bleach-cleaning 7-5Built-in printer 2-3, 2-4
configuring 3-3installing paper 2-20
CCalibration 5-2, 5-3
Hematology Calibrator 5-2history, viewing 5-6materials 5-2when needed 5-2
CD-ROM drive 2-3opening 8-3
Cell discriminators 9-5, A-5granulocytes 9-5in histograms 4-13lymphocytes 9-5monocytes 9-5nucleated red blood cells (nRBC) 9-5resistive red blood cells 9-5reticulocytes 9-5
Cleaningaperture 7-5automatic 2-2, 7-5bleach-cleaning 7-5daily 4-4on reagent pack change 7-8wash head 7-2wash head (weekly) 7-2
Cleaning tube kit 2-10, 2-17, 7-5
Ind
Combined results (HM2 and VetScan) 4-16Combined results (HM2/VetScan) 3-11Complete Blood Count (CBC) B-2
interpreting 4-23measured or calculated values 4-13, B-6, B-7platelet parameters 4-24red blood cell parameters 4-24white blood cell parameters 4-23
Components, analyzer 2-3Computer
connecting to analyzer 2-23USB driver for 2-24
Control panel 2-3cursor control keys 2-6hard-function keys 2-6keypad 2-6OK key 2-6soft-function keys 2-7Start button 2-5status indicator (LED) 2-5
Controls. See Quality Control (QC)Cursor control keys 2-6
DDaily maintenance 7-2Database
backing up results 6-4deleting results 6-4saving results to PC or USB flash drive 6-4viewing results 6-2, 6-3
Date and time, setting 3-15Diagnostic Self test 7-10
EElectrical requirements 2-19Environmental requirements 2-19Eosinophils 4-14, 4-23, B-6, B-8Erythrocytes
See also Red blood cellsExporting results 4-15External printer 2-20
configuring 3-4
ex I-1
FFlags. See Warning indicators (flags)Fluidic system 2-11
GGranulocytes 4-14
and cell discriminators 9-5GRA/GRA% 4-13, B-8
HHard-function keys 2-6Hematocrit (HCT) 4-24, A-4, B-7Hematology
Calibrator 5-2measurement methods B-2
Hemoglobin A-4average content of erythrocytes B-7concentration (HGB) B-7mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) 4-24,
A-4, B-7mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration
(MCHC) 4-24, A-4, B-7measured and calculated values B-7measurement method B-5
Hemoglobin Concentration (HGB) 4-24Histograms 4-13
cell discriminators 4-13cell-type populations 4-13full-spectrum 9-5interpreting 4-12, 4-13, 4-14PLT (platelet) 4-14RBC (red blood cell) 4-14scanning for abnormalities 4-13viewing 6-2WBC (white blood cell) 4-13
History, calibration 5-6
IInitialization 2-31Installation 2-20
electrical requirements 2-19environmental requirements 2-19external keyboard 2-20external printer 2-21power supply 2-20selecting a location 2-18space requirements 2-18
I-2 Ind
KKeyboard
external, connecting external 2-20mini 2-17port 2-4
Keypad 2-6
LLaboratory information 3-12Language used by analyzer 3-10Leukocytes
See White blood cellsLevy-Jennings graphs 5-8Linearity ranges 10-3Lymphocytes 4-23
and cell discriminators 9-5LYM/LYM% 4-13, B-8
MMaintenance 7-1
cleaning wash head (weekly) 7-2daily 7-2Self test 7-10weekly 7-2
Measurement units, setting 3-11Menus and commands 2-12Microbubbles 2-25, 2-26, 2-31, 4-3Monocytes 4-23, B-6
and cell discriminators 9-5MON/MON% 4-13, B-8
Multi user mode 3-13, 3-14
NNeutrophils 4-14, 4-23, B-8
OOK key 2-6Operating principles B-1Out-of-range results 9-2
PPatient identification data 4-8Peristaltic pump
replacing tube assembly 7-11spare tube assembly 2-17
ex
Platelets A-6aggregation (clumping) 4-14, A-6anisocytosis, measure of B-7average volume B-7clumped/giant 4-14count (PLT) 4-24distribution width B-7histogram (PLT) 4-14in CBC parameters 4-24in WBC histograms 4-13mean platelet volume (MPV) 4-24, B-7measured and calculated values B-7platelet count (PLT) B-7platelet distribution width (PDW) 4-24, A-6,
B-7platelet hematocrit (PCT) 4-24, B-7PLT histogram 4-14thrombocrit B-7
PortsPS/2 keyboard 2-4serial (RS-232) 2-4USB 2-3, 2-4
Powerturning on and off 2-28
Power supply 2-19connecting 2-20cord 2-17input 2-4surge protection 2-9, 2-19uninterruptable (UPS) 2-9, 2-19
Power switch 2-4Prediluted mode
analysis 4-21, 4-22calibrating before use 4-21preparing samples 4-21
Printerbuilt-in 2-3, 2-4, 2-20external 2-21, 3-2settings 3-3
PrintingAutoprint 3-5combined HM2 and VetScan results 4-16combined HM2/VetScan results 3-11examples 4-18results 4-9, 4-15settings 3-4
PS/2 keyboard port 2-4
Ind
QQuality Control (QC) 5-6, 5-7
database 5-8Levy-Jennings graphs 5-8materials 5-6monitoring over time 5-8stored results 5-6types 5-6viewing results 5-8when to perform 5-6
RReagent pack 2-18
changing 7-8color-coded connections 2-4, 2-27connecting 2-25status 8-2
Reagent tubing kit 2-17Red blood cells A-4
anisocytosis B-7distribution width B-7histogram (RBC) 4-14in CBC parameters 4-24in WBC histograms 4-13mean corpuscular volume (MCV) 4-24, B-7measured and calculated values B-7nucleated (nRBC) 4-14, 9-5red blood cell (RBC) histogram 4-14red blood cell count (RBC) 4-14, B-7red cell distribution width (RDW) 4-24, A-4,
B-7resistive 9-5
References, veterinary hematology A-8Results
backing up 6-4contents stored 6-2deleting 6-4exporting 4-15interpreting 4-12linearity ranges 10-3measured and calculated values B-7out-of-range 9-2printing 4-9, 4-15report contents 4-12saved automatically 6-2saved to database 4-15saving to PC or USB flash drive 6-4viewing 6-3
ex I-3
viewing from USB flash drive 6-4warning indicators 4-9
Reticulocytes 9-5RS-232 port 2-4
SSample tube adapter 2-3Sample tube adapters 2-10, 2-17Samples
collecting and preparing 4-2feline, special techniques 4-3, 4-14in prediluted mode 4-21multiple tube draws 4-2potential interferences C-1proper handling 4-2quality assurance 4-2storing 4-3tube adapters 4-7useful life 4-3verifying species 4-8
Sampling rotor 2-3, 4-7Screensaver
messages 4-5, 7-2wait time 3-10
Self test 7-10Serial (RS-232) port 2-4Service, preparing for 7-1Shipping the analyzer 9-10
shut-down before 2-29Shutting down
for 10 days or more 2-29for 72 hours or more 2-29for shipping 2-29
Single user mode 3-13Soft-function keys 2-7Software
updating 8-3version number 8-2
Space requirements 2-18Species
available 1-2defining custom 8-3printing ranges 8-4verifying before analysis 4-8
Specifications 10-2Standby mode 2-5
leaving 2-32Start button 2-5Status indicator (LED) 2-5
I-4 Ind
Status information 8-2Storing the analyzer 7-7Subsystems, analyzer 2-11Surge protector 2-9, 2-19System components 2-17
TTechnical Support 1-2Thermal paper 2-17Thrombocytes. See PlateletsTroubleshooting 9-1
UUninterruptable power supply (UPS) 2-9, 2-19Units, setting 3-11USB driver for computer 2-24USB ports 2-3, 2-4
VVeterinary hematology references A-8VetScan VS2/Classic analyzers
connecting 2-22, 2-23printing combined results 3-11, 4-16
WWarning indicators (flags) 4-21, 9-2
blank flags 9-2examples 9-6interpreting 9-6measurement conditions 9-2result flags 9-2result warnings 9-3
Wash headcleaning 7-2cleaning reminder 7-2cleaning weekly 7-2
Weekly maintenance 7-2White blood cells A-5
classification A-5differential count 9-5GRA/GRA% differentials 4-13, B-8in CBC parameters 4-23LYM/LYM% differentials 4-13, B-8measured and calculated values B-7MON/MON% differentials 4-13, B-8three-part differential method B-4WBC histogramswhite blood cell count (WBC) 4-13, B-7
ex
Updates
VetScan HM2 UpdatesVetScan HM2 Updates
VetScan HM2 Updates