[Hemolysis interference on clinical chemistry tests analyzed on DxC 700 AU (Beckman Coulter®) and kaliemia rendering algorithm].

The influence of hemolysis was evaluated for 26 clinical chemistry parameters on DxC 700AU (Beckman Coulter®). Ten sample pools were prepared and separated into six aliquots. These aliquots were overloaded with hemolysis in increasing amounts to reach levels equivalent to the maximum hemolysis thresholds H1 (+), H2 (++), H3 (+++) and H4 (++++).

[Streptococcus pneumoniae neonatal infection].

One case of early onset invasive pneumococcal disease in the newborn, acquired from the maternal vagina, is reported. Streptococcus pneumoniae has been estimated to be rarely responsible for neonatal sepsis (1-8%) together with maternal infection. Clinical features are similar to other neonatal infections, but outcome is particularly severe (mortality: 50%, neurological sequelae: 13%).

[Diagnosis by blood smear of a fulminant pneumococcemia complicating a myeloma].

Introduction: During a pneumococcal septicemia, the direct revelation of bacteria on a blood smear is rare and has been mainly described in splenectomised patients.

Observation: A 62 year-old non-splenectomised man suffering from myeloma died, a few hours after his admission to emergency department, from a fulminant pneumococcemia, the diagnosis of which had been rapidly evoked on the examination of a blood smear showing numerous Gram positive diplococci.

Comments: This observation highlights the potential severity of pneumococcal infections in patients suffering from altered humoral immunity and the diagnostic interest, in this case, of a systematic routine blood smear permitting rapid initiation of appropriate treatment.