The Phase I research will demonstrate the technical merit and feasibility of routine analysis of red cell volume distributions in the diagnostic evaluation of anemia using a dedicated controller with a reduced instruction-set-computer (RISC) microprocessor. Current automated hematology analyzers measure the volume of each red cell, providing the red cell column distribution. Procedures developed by our consultants, McLaren and Brittenham (I 9,20,2 1), have been adopted by the Expert Panel on Cytometry of the International Committee for Standardization in Hematology (ISCH) for inclusion as an ICSH Reference Method in their recommendations for the standardization of cell size distribution analysis (12). To date use of the ISCH Reference Method has been restricted to research applications because of the computational requirements of the iterative procedures. The major goal of the Phase I project is to implement the ISCH Reference Method for cell volume analysis utilizing a dedicated RISC-based microprocessor that will permit routine use with commercially available automated hematology analyzers operating in a clinical laboratory. A computerized implementation of the ISCH Reference Method is clinically needed to make generally available the new diagnostic information derived from current electronic particle counters and would provide useful, cost-effective approach to improving the evaluation and management of anemia.Awardee's statement of the potential commercial applications of the research:Utilizing the new reduced instruction-set-computer (RISC) technology, the product of the Phase I project could be offered commercially as a dedicated controller with a RISC-based microprocessor to interface with hematology analyzers produced by major American manufacturers. The dedicated microcontroller, utilizing state-of-the-art technology, would be an innovative, commercially competitive offering, quantitatively and qualitat ively superior to any existing product, with a large potential market both in the United States and worldwide.National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
