Abstract

FONTANA, Alicia Beatriz et al. Erythrocyte aggregation quantification technique using digital image analysis. Acta bioquím. clín. latinoam. [online]. 2012, vol.46, n.1, pp.47-52. ISSN 0325-2957.

Characterization of erythrocyte aggregates is important in the analysis of the possible alterations observed in the microcirculation of certain vascular pathologies such as hypertension and diabetes. The objective of this work was to standardize a technique that can be used by any operator having similar equipment. For that purpose, different suspensions of red blood cells from healthy donors were prepared in autologous plasma and then observed with an inverted light microscope. The images of the aggregates were recorded with a digital camera in order to be later analyzed. Individual cell count was carried out, as well as 2 to 4 cell- aggregates, 5 or more cell- aggregate and amas (big aggregate networks). Measurement of perimeter and area of each of the aggregates made up of 5 or more cells was performed, getting a shape parameter (ASP). Due to the results obtained, this working protocol has been standardized and it can be concluded that the optimal dilution of red blood cells in autologous plasma is 0.5% for this particular technique.

Keywords : Erythrocyte aggregation; Vascular pathologies; Digital images.

        · abstract in Spanish | Portuguese     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )