Differential lymphoid-myeloid determination of leukocytes in whole blood

摘要

This invention relates to a lytic diluent and a method for rapid lysing of red blood cells in whole blood for a differential determination of lymphoid and myeloid populations of leukocytes, and measurement of hemoglobin, particularly for use in automatic particle counting systems. The diluent is a mixture of at least one quaternary ammonium salt having surface active properties, and an additive in suitable proportions, buffered to an acid pH of 3.5 to 5.0. The additive includes 2-phenoxyethanol and other short chain alkanols substituted by one phenyl or phenoxy, as well as certain polyhydroxy compounds. When the reagent is employed in lower concentrations, an alkaline reagent comprising a quaternary ammonium salt and an alkali metal cyanide, buffered to an alkaline pH, may be added to complete the chromagen formation.