What is a Blood Counting Chamber?
A Blood Counting Chamber, commonly known as a Hemocytometer, is a specialized microscope slide designed for counting blood cells, platelets, and other cell types in a given volume of liquid. Invented by Louis-Charles Malassez in the 19th century, the hemocytometer remains a standard tool in hematology laboratories today.
How It Works
The blood counting chamber features a thick glass slide with an etched grid in the center. When a blood sample, typically diluted, is placed on the grid under a coverslip, the depth and volume of the sample are precisely controlled. By counting the cells within the defined grid areas under a microscope, technicians can calculate the concentration of cells in the original fluid.
Applications
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) analysis
- Research studies involving blood cell behavior
- Monitoring medical conditions like anemia or infections
- Quality control in blood banking
Key Advantages
- Accurate measurement with proper technique
- Cost-effective compared to automated analyzers
- Useful in low-resource settings
Key Advantages
- Quick and reliable sperm concentration measurement
- Allows simultaneous motility analysis
- Minimal sample preparation required
Key Advantages
- Highly accurate and consistent readings
- User-friendly and fast results
- Minimal operator error
- Portable and often waterproof designs
