Cross-evaluation of five slidemakers and three automated image analysis systems: The pitfalls of automation?

Introduction: Automated slidemakers and stainers and digital microscopes are coupled with haematology analysers to achieve better efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This study evaluates the integrated performance of slidemakers and digital microscopes commonly available on the market.

Methods: We compared the percentage of neutrophils for five slidemakers (two Siemens Advia Autoslides, a SysmexSP-10 and SP-50 and an Abbot Alinity hs) and a Horiba Hemaprep to the corresponding haematology analyser data (Siemens Advia 2120i, Sysmex XN and Abbot Alinity hq).