DIFFERENTIAL COUNT(Automated Cell Counter)

A differential count, otherwise referred to as a white blood cell differential, is a test that assesses the classification and ratios of leucocytes in the blood. White blood cells represent a critical part of human immunity that serves to combat infections and diseases. This count is essential because it assists in diagnosing conditions such as infection, anaemia, leukaemia and other diseases which impacts on the blood cells.

The test shows the proportions and absolute counts of each white blood cell type. An automated cell counter does this by measuring electrical impedance or laser light scattering to identify and quantify various white blood cell types. Afterward, the machine produces an elaborate report detailing the proportions and absolute counts of all WBC types.

The differential count measures the following parameters:

• Neutrophil percentage (NEUT%) and absolute count (NEUT#)
• Lymphocyte percentage (LYMPH%) and absolute count (LYMPH#)
• Monocyte percentage (MONO%) and absolute count (MONO#)
• Eosinophil percentage (EOS%) and absolute count (EOS#)
• Basophil percentage (BASO%) and absolute count (BASO#)

A differential count is often taken as part of a routine complete blood count (CBC) or when a healthcare professional suspects an infection or blood disorder. The test is also used to monitor treatment response in patients with blood-related conditions.

The differential count is a safe and non-invasive test, but it does have some limitations. For example:

• The test may not detect certain types of blood disorders, such as myeloproliferative neoplasms.
• The test results may be affected by a variety of factors such as medications, nutrition, and sleep.
• The test requires specialized equipment and trained medical professionals to interpret the results.

While assessing a differential count, health professionals shall monitor the parameters below:

• Blasts or abnormal white blood cell counts or proportions
• Abnormal white blood cell morphology and presence of immature white blood cells (blasts)
• Alterations in white blood cells counts or proportions over a time

Like other measures, these parameters may be modified according to the patient's age, underlying medical conditions, and medications.

A differential count is prescribed for patients who have the following:

Signs of fever or any inflamed region.

• Suspected blood disorders, like leukaemia or lymphoma.
• Treatment monitoring of blood-related issues.
• Basic screening or proactive medicine.

A differential count can assist in the diagnosis and management of:

• Conditions that have causes of infections like pneumonia or sepsis.
• Blood diseases like leukaemia and lymphoma or even anaemia.
• Chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and even asthma.
• Disorders of the bone marrow like myelodysplastic syndrome.

If you spot these symptoms early, they can be easily treated before major issues develop.

A differential count helps determine a variety of conditions like the following:

• Infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal)
• Blood disorders (anaemia, leukaemia, lymphoma)
• Inflammatory conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, asthma)
• Bone marrow disorders (myelodysplastic syndrome, myeloproliferative neoplasms)

To prepare for a differential count:

• No specific preparation is usually required
• Follow your healthcare professional’s instruction for preparation before the test
• Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any medication, supplements, or have any allergies

Prerequisites: None

Eligibility: Everyone can use this service regardless of age and gender.

Procedure for Taking the Test: A whole blood sample is drawn in an EDTA tube.

Caution Before the Test: Tell the healthcare provider if you have any allergies or bleeding problems.