Method and apparatus for measuring white blood cell count

摘要

A method for quantitatively measuring white blood cell count involves capture of white blood cells from a fluid sample by a retainer, removal of the red blood cells and other interfering substances by a wash solution, and reading the result of a color reaction in which an ester which is present on the white blood cells cleaves a chromogenic substrate which produces a water insoluble dye. The apparatus for use in the present method includes a retainer for white blood cells that optionally has a dye substrate immobilized therein and an absorption layer that wicks and takes up all excess washing solution flowing past the sample.