Performance evaluation of alternate ESR measurement method using BC-780 automated hematology analyzer: a comparison study with the Westergren reference method

Abstract

Objectives Implementation of alternate erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) measurement method is increasing worldwide due to its various advantages. In this study, we aim to evaluate the analytical performance of the BC-780 automated hematology analyzer in measurement of ESR value. Methods Analyzer performance including precision study, carryover, sample stability and potential interferences are examined. Samples with ESR values spanning the whole analytical ESR range are included for method comparison study. Samples with different hematocrit (Hct) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) values are also analyzed and compared with the results obtained from the Westergren reference method. Results Precisions and carryover results are consistent with the manufacturers’ claim. ESR values do not change significantly in the samples stored at 2–8 °C for 24 h (h) or at room temperature (RT) for 8 h, but significantly decreased (p<0.001) when stored at RT for 24 h. Significant increase in ESR value is documented in samples that are hemolyzed (hemoglobin concentration ranged from 1.28–6.01 g/L) (p=0.010) or lipemic (triglyceride above 4.75 mmol/L) (p=0.001). Method comparison study yields a proportional difference with a regression equation=3.08+ 0.98x. Bland–Altman analysis shows a mean absolute bias of 3.12 mm. The obtained absolute mean biases are below 5 mm in all analytical categories except for the group where MCV>100 fL. Conclusions Most tested parameters met the manufacturer’s specifications and were comparable to the reference method. Despite the presence of positive bias, it falls within acceptable criteria. Extensive validation against potential interferences such as hemolysis/lipemia is still necessary in future.

Inflammatory Status and Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats: Old and New Inflammatory Markers—A Pilot Prospective Study

“…In the CKD group, significant moderate negative correlations between ESR and both hematocrit value and hemoglobin concentration were found. In human medicine, existing evidence indicates that non-inflammatory conditions influencing ESR are primarily associated with hematocrit value, size, shape and number of red blood cells, and blood interferents, such as lipemia and hemolysis [46,47]. Scant data are available for cats regarding the influence of hematocrit value on ESR [40], while no evidence is present for blood interferents.…”