Volume conductivity and scatter parameters as an indicator of acute bacterial infections by the automated haematology analyser

Introduction: Complete blood picture is the first and foremost investigation ordered for evaluation of acute infectious processes which require early and prompt intervention. With the advent of automated Coulter ® Haematology analysers, the Volume, Conductivity & Scatter parameters of the leucocytes could be analysed for the early detection of the infections. Aim: To evaluate the clinical usefulness of Volume, Conductivity & Scatter parameters of neutrophils & monocytes in predicting the onset of acute bacterial infections. Materials and Methods: Peripheral blood samples from 94 patients with infections (systemic infections n=36 & localised infections n=58) and 46 control subjects were studied using the Volume, Conductivity & Scatter parameters by the Coulter Haematology analyser. Results: We observed a significant increase in the mean channel of neutrophil volume & mean channel of monocyte volume from patients with infections (both systemic & localised) as compared with control subjects (Mean Neutrophil Volume: 158.3 ± 13.7 vs 137.2 ± 4.3; p<0.001) & (Mean Monocyte Volume: 177.8± 16 vs 161.7 ± 6.04; p <0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the Mean Neutrophil Volume of patients with systemic infection &localised infections (160.5±17.5 vs 156.8±10.5, p>0.05). Conclusion: The Volume, Conductivity & Scatter parameters like Mean Neutrophil Volume & Mean Monocyte Volume are more sensitive parameters and could prove to be a quick diagnostic indicator of acute bacterial infections.