780-7013 Rev. B Hm2b Operator's Manual Text

®
VetScan HM2
Hematology System
For Veterinary Use Only

Customer and Technical Support
1-800-822-2947
November 2008
PN: 780-7003 Rev. B Assy

PN: 780-7013 Rev. B Text
© 2008, Abaxis, Inc.
Union City, CA 94587
IMPORTANT: READ BEFORE USING THE VETSCAN® HM2 ANALYZER
FOR THE FIRST TIME
To get started quickly, please refer to the Quick Reference Guide in the pocket of this
Operator’s Manual.
Fill in this information for future reference

Serial number (from the back of the unit):
Date of installation: ............................................................................................................................
Distributor name and address: ..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
..................................................................................................
Abaxis sales representative name: ..................................................................................................
Phone: ..................................................................................................
Email: ..................................................................................................
THANK YOU FOR PURCHASING THE VETSCAN HM2!

Please fill out the Abaxis Product Warranty and Registration
Card located in the front pocket of this Operator's Manual
and send it to Abaxis soon to get your benefits started.
©
2008, Abaxis, Inc.
Union City, CA
94587
Table of Contents
Section 1: General Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1.2 Customer and Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1.3 Symbols Used in Labeling and Hazard Identification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Section 2: System Overview and Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.1 VetScan HM2 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2.2 Unpacking the System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.3 Selecting a Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
2.4 Installing the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
2.5 Turning the Analyzer On and Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
2.6 Initializing the VetScan HM2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30
2.7 Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31
Section 3: Configuring the VetScan HM2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.1 Printer Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.2 Operational Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3.3 Date and Time Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
3.4 Fluid Sensor Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Section 4: Test Procedure and Interpreting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
4.1 Collecting and Preparing Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4.2 Before Performing an Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.3 Analyzing a Sample. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
4.4 Adjusting the Needle Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
4.5 Adjusting the Lyse Volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
4.6 Interpreting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4.7 Printing and Exporting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4.8 Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4.9 Using Prediluted Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
4.10 Interpreting CBC Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
Section 5: Calibration and Quality Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
5.1 Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.2 Performing Quality Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Section 6: Managing the Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
6.1 Database Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
6.2 Database Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
6.3 Navigating the Database System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Table of Contents TOC-1

Section 7: Maintenance & Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
7.1 Periodic Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
7.2 Cleaning the Aperture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
7.3 Bleach-Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
7.4 Shut-Down Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7
7.5 Changing the Reagent Pack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
7.6 Running the Self Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
7.7 Replacing the Peristaltic Pump Tube Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
Section 8: Special Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
8.1 Viewing the Software Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
8.2 Viewing Status Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
8.3 Updating the Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
8.4 Customizing the User-Defined Species Profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
8.5 Customizing and Printing the Normal Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Section 9: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1
9.1 Warning Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.2 Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
9.3 Evaluating Unexpected Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
9.4 Preparing the Analyzer for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10
Section 10: Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1
10.1 VetScan HM2 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
10.2 Linearity Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Appendix A: Introduction to Veterinary Hematology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1
A.1 Function of Blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2
A.2 Composition of Blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
A.3 Blood Cell Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
A.4 Normal Hematology Ranges (Dog, Cat, Horse, and Others) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-7
A.5 Veterinary Hematology References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-8
Appendix B: Operating Principles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
B.1 Complete Blood Count (CBC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
B.2 Measurement Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
B.3 Hemoglobin Determination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5
B.4 Measured and Calculated Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6
B.5 Measured and Calculated Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-7
Appendix C: Potential Sample Interferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1
Appendix D: Veterinary Case Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1
D.1 Human Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-2
D.2 Dogs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-3
D.3 Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-10
D.4 Horses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-15
Appendix E: Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1
Index
VetScan HM2 Updates
TOC-2 Table of Contents

Section 1 General Information
This section provides general information about the Abaxis VetScan®
HM2 Hematology System.
Section Contents
1.1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

1.2 Customer and Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1.3 Symbols Used in Labeling and Hazard Identification. . . . . . . . 1-3
General Information 1-1

1.1 Introduction
The VetScan® HM2 Hematology System is an impedance-based hematology system designed spe-
cifically for veterinary in vitro diagnostic use.
The VetScan HM2 provides a fully automated complete blood count (CBC) analysis of white blood
cells, red blood cells, and platelets in whole blood in a veterinary setting. The system offers an
18-parameter CBC analysis, including a three-part WBC differential, and three cellular histograms.
The VetScan HM2 is calibrated to analyze multiple veterinary species. Check the list of species on
the HM2 itself (see page 4-8), or contact Abaxis Technical Support for the full list of available spe-
cies. Additional species may be added to the analyzer software from time to time by means of a
simple software upgrade, provided to HM2 customers at no charge.
The HM2 system features the following components:
■ the hematology analyzer itself, including a keypad and display
■ an external keyboard that can be connected to the analyzer if needed
■ a reagent pack, including a diluent, lyse agent, cleaner, and rinse solution, each in its
own container. The diluent container can also be used as a waste container for the
next reagent pack.
For added convenience, the HM2 can be connected to a VetScan or VetScan VS2 Chemistry Ana-
lyzer so that results from both instruments can be consolidated and printed on a single, standard-
size page. The two analyzers can also be connected in tandem to a computer for use with veterinary
data management systems. The HM2 alone will also interface directly with an external computer.
1.2 Customer and Technical Support

Abaxis Technical Support personnel can answer your questions regarding the VetScan HM2
Hematology Analyzer, or the combined VetScan HM2/VS2 system.
■ Telephone: 800-822-2947
Abaxis Technical Support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except
major U.S. holidays.
■ Email: technicalsupport@abaxis.com
■ Web: www.abaxis.com
■ Fax: 877-900-9333
Note: Abaxis contact information is also available in the HM2’s software.

To view the information, press the Utilities key on the instru-
ment’s front panel, then press 6 to select Service.
1-2 General Information

1.3 Symbols Used in Labeling and Hazard
Identification
The VetScan HM2 uses safety features to protect the operator from injury, prevent damage to the
HM2, and to alert the operator of problems with results. Symbols used in labeling and through this
manual are shown below.
Computer connection. Fragile. Use caution when handling. Do

Use only a recommended not drop.
computer interface cable.
Keyboard connection. Use Up. Always store with the arrow facing up.
the keyboard provided.
Printer connection. Use Warning: Alerts the operator of

only printers recommended hazardous conditions that can
and validated by Abaxis. cause injury or damage the
Use only the recommended analyzer. Read all warning
printer cable. statements carefully, and
proceed with caution.
Sunlight. Keep out of direct Caution: Procedures that must be

sunlight. followed to avoid damaging the
analyzer. Read all caution
statements carefully. The
Product Warranty can be
voided if caution statements are
not followed.
Storage temperature. Note: Important, helpful information

Store only at temperatures
within the indicated range.
General Information 1-3

1-4 General Information
Section 2 System Overview and
Installation
This section includes an overview of the VetScan HM2: its features, func-
tionality, main components, reagent pack, and available accessories. The
section also provides complete installation instructions.
Section Contents
2.1 VetScan HM2 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

2.1.1 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2.1.2 Main Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2.1.3 Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2.1.4 Reagents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
2.1.5 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
2.1.6 Subsystems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
2.1.7 Menu/Command Listing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
2.2 Unpacking the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.3 Selecting a Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
2.3.1 Space Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
2.3.2 Environmental Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
2.3.3 Electrical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19
2.4 Installing the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
2.4.1 Connecting an External Keyboard (Optional) . . . . . . . 2-20
2.4.2 Connecting the Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
2.4.3 Connecting an External Printer (Optional) . . . . . . . . . 2-20
2.4.4 Connecting a VetScan Chemistry Analyzer (Optional) 2-21
2.4.5 Connecting the HM2 to a Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22
2.4.6 Connecting the Reagent Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-24
2.5 Turning the Analyzer On and Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
2.5.1 Turning the Analyzer On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
2.5.2 Turning the Analyzer Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27
2.6 Initializing the VetScan HM2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30
2.7 Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31
System Overview and Installation 2-1

2.1 VetScan HM2 System Overview
The following pages provide an overview of the VetScan HM2.
2.1.1 Features
■ Small sample size requirement: consumes approximately 25 µl of EDTA-preserved
whole blood per CBC measurement.
■ Rapid test turnaround: only 2–3 minutes to results.
■ Advanced, integrated self-cleaning system for optimized performance with very mini-
mal maintenance — expanded automatic aperture cleaning after every run.
■ Simple, intuitive, and easy-to-use software interface makes the analyzer very user-
friendly, and requires only a short learning curve.
■ Accurate results for out-of-range values: automatic calculations are provided for external
1:5 dilutions in cases of extremely high values or very small sample volumes.
■ Simple, flexible database with large storage capacity:
❑ Automatically saves up to 1,000 test records.
❑ Data can be downloaded to a USB flash drive or a compatible data-management sys-
tem.
❑ Quality control (QC) results (including Levy-Jennings charts) are stored in the
instrument’s QC database for viewing and management.
■ User reminders for replacing the reagent pack and performing simple maintenance tasks.
■ Integrated laboratory results: the HM2 can be connected to a VetScan Chemistry Ana-
lyzer for integrated results reporting.
■ Advanced user features: Multi user mode, customizable normal range, and adjustable
lysing strength.
2-2 System Overview and Installation

2.1.2 Main Components
The following pages show the main functional components of the VetScan HM2 analyzer.
Front View
1 Control panel with high-contrast liquid 2 Interchangeable sample tube adapter

crystal display (LCD) — see page 2-5
3 Sampling rotor

Back View
6
1 7
1 Reagent tubing connections 2 Power On/Off switch

3 12 VDC external power supply input 4 USB Type A port
5 USB Type A port 6 Serial (RS-232) port
7 USB Type B port 8 PS/2 keyboard port

2.1.3 Control Panel
The analyzer’s control panel features an LCD display, a keypad, six “hard-function” keys, six
“soft-function” keys, a Start button, and a status LED indicator.
Hard- LCD display

function keys
Soft-function
keys
Status LED
Keypad
Start button
■ Start button
Press and release to begin an analysis cycle.
Status LED
Start button
■ Status indicator
This LED (above the Start button) indicates the instrument’s status, as follows.
Table 2-1: Status LED Color Indications
LED color HM2 status

Green The instrument is in ready state (analysis can begin).
Red The instrument is performing an analysis. No new analysis can be started.
Orange The instrument is performing a maintenance process, or is in power-saving
standby mode (see “Standby Mode” on page 2-31).

■ Keypad — The analyzer’s control keypad includes the following:
❑ Alpha-numeric keys for entering data and selecting menu items.

❑ Decimal point ( . ) key.
❑ del key for deleting characters.
❑ Cursor control keys: and for moving between items displayed on the screen,
and and for moving between items on the screen or menu levels.
❑ OK key for confirming data, and for moving through items on the screen.
■ Hard-function keys — single-function

keys on the instrument’s front panel
above the LCD display, each of which
opens a menu of commands for that function.
Table 2-2: Hard-Function Keys
Press this key.... To use this function....
Information/Help
Measurement/Analysis — press to begin analysis.
Database — press to view stored results.
Utilities — press to perform quality control, calibration, mainte-

nance, or setting functions, or to check reagent status.
Print
Exit — press to shut down the instrument.
Note: See “Menu/Command Listing” on page 2-12 for a list of the menus
and commands that are available through the hard-function keys.

■ Soft-function keys — a row of unlabeled
keys just below the LCD display:
The functions of these keys depend on

the current menu, and are displayed on
the screen immediately above the
keys, as shown in this example.
To use a displayed function, press the soft-function key below it. The following table
lists the various soft-function keys that appear on the instrument.
Table 2-3: Soft-Function Keys
ACCEPT Accepts the results or changes made.
CANCEL Leaves the current menu without saving changes.
EXIT Exits the current menu or action.
GRAPH Displays histograms of the selected result.
TABLE Displays table of values for the selected result.
MENU Opens the local menu for the functions displayed.
PT.ID Enters or modifies patient data.
REPEAT Repeats the previous action.
PREVIOUS NEXT Move through results displayed on multiple pages.
PGUP PGDN Move through screens with multiple pages.
---16--- ---64--- Change the scaling of Levey-Jennings chart (16 or 64 days).
When completing a bleach-cleaning, select NEW to use a new reagent pack, OLD
NEW OLD STOP
to continue using the current reagent pack, or to STOP to shut down the instrument.
CHANGE Resets the status of the reagent pack.
LIMITS Displays reference ranges for selected species.
CHKSTA Checks the printer status if an error occurs.
CONTINUE Attempts to print again after a printer error has been corrected.
RESET Resets the printer if an error occurs.
ABORT Stops the current process.

2.1.4 Reagents
VetScan HM2 Reagent Pack

The HM2 reagent pack (PN 750-9000) consists of bottles containing diluent, cleaner, lyse, and
rinse solutions.
Note: To ensure accurate test results, use only the reagents supplied by
Abaxis.
The following table lists the reagents volumes and bottle sizes in the reagent pack.
Table 2-4: Reagents and Containers
Reagents Descriptions Color Code Volume Bottle Size

Diluent Isotonic saline solution used to dilute whole Green 6200 ml 8 liters
blood specimens, and to rinse the ana-
lyzer’s fluidic system between analyses.
Rinse Used with diluent to prevent salt build-up White 500 ml 500 ml
on aperture.
Cleaner Used in the fluidic system cleaning pro- Blue 250 ml 250 ml
cess.
Lyse Used to create hemolysate for three-part Yellow 270 ml 500 ml
WBC differential, and for total WBC and
HGB.
Cat, Dog, and Human Controls

Before you can perform analyses, the instrument must first be calibrated using the Human Calibra-
tor1, and quality control procedures must then be performed using Cat and Dog Control materials.
These control materials are not included with the analyzer, but can be ordered from your distributor
or directly from Abaxis. If you order from Abaxis, please use these part numbers:
■ 700-9003, Dog Control, 2 cc vial (1)

■ 700-9004, Cat Control, 2 cc vial (1)
■ 700-9005, Human Calibrator, 2 cc vial (1)
1. The Human Calibrator is derived from human sources. Observe universal safety precautions when handling the Calibrator.
See “Calibration and Quality Control” on page 5-1.

2.1.5 Accessories
This section describes the accessories that are included with the analyzer. To order replacements,
contact your distributor or Abaxis.
External Mini-Keyboard
You can connect the external mini-keyboard to the instrument through one of its USB ports (see
“Back View” on page 2-4). The mini-keyboard provides a convenient way to enter patient and
clinic information.
The mini-keyboard’s function keys F1 through F6 function as equivalent to the analyzer’s soft-
function keys (from left to right: see page 2-7), and keys F7 through F12 function as equivalent to
the analyzer’s hard-function keys (see page 2-6):
■ F7 — Information/Help key
■ F8 — Measurement/Analysis key
■ F9 — Database key
■ F10 — Utilities key
■ F11 — Print key
■ F12 — Exit key
Power Supply and Power Cord

The analyzer uses an external 12 VDC power supply that
can operate from a 230 or 110 V main outlet. The power
supply’s input socket is a standard power cable connec-
tion, and its output is a special locking socket.
CAUTION: Abaxis recommends using the analyzer with a surge protector

designed for a computer.
In addition, an uninterruptable power supply (UPS) is strongly rec-

ommended if the HM2 will be used in an area prone to electrical
surges or power outages.
An appropriate power supply is vital for the integrity of the sys-

tem.

Reagent Tubing Kit
The reagent tubing kit (Abaxis Part No. 750-9002)
includes the color-coded reagent tubes used to connect
the HM2 with the containers in the reagent pack.
The kit also include the reagent bottle caps with connec-
tors and drop-down tubes, as shown.
Cleaning Tube Kit

The cleaning tube kit is needed for bleach-cleaning the instrument,
as described in “Bleach-Cleaning” on page 7-5.
Sample Tube Adapters

The instrument includes the following sample tube adapters, for use as shown in “Analyzing a
Sample” on page 4-7.
Table 2-5: Sample Tube Adapters

Tube Adapter Part Number Sample Tube Size
3–5 ml Tube Adapter 750-9008 3–5 ml
Microtainer Tube Adapter 750-9009 1–2 ml
Vacutainer Adapter 750-9014 400 µl
Control Vial Adapter 750-9010 2 ml control vial
Peristaltic Pump Tube Assembly

As part of routine yearly preventive maintenance, the HM2’s peristaltic pump tube must be
inspected, and replaced if needed (see “Periodic Maintenance” on page 7-2). The HM2 is shipped
with one replacement peristaltic pump tube.

2.1.6 Subsystems
The VetScan HM2 has two primary subsystems.
■ Fluidic system: Performs sampling, diluting, mixing, lysing, and rinsing functions.
Generates the regulated vacuum used for moving cells through the aperture during the
counting process.
Diluent
Lyse
Cleaner
Waste Rinse reagent

Cleaner
solution
solution
reagent
Rinse
Diluent solution Waste container
Lyse
■ Data processing system: Counts, measures, and calculates blood parameters, generates
and stores numerical results and histograms.

2.1.7 Menu/Command Listing
The following charts outline the instrument’s menu functions and commands.
Information / Help Displays help for the current screen.
Analysis / Measurement
MENU 1 – Repeat last sample Repeats last sample tested (HM2

assigns new sample ID, all other
patient information is unchanged).
2 – Measure blank Performs blank measurement.
3 – Prediluted mode Enters automatic calculation for 1:5
externally diluted sample (“1:5”
appears in upper RH screen corner).
4 – WBC only Analyzes WBC only with next test.
5 – Needle Height Setting Adjusts sampling depth.
6 – Lyse Volume Adjusts lyse reagent volume
by +/– 0.2 mL.
PT.ID Opens dialog for entering patient information.
Sample ID HM2 assigns automatically (cannot

be modified).
Doctor
Species
Patient ID
Name
Age
Sex
LIMITS Displays reference ranges for selected species (can be modified).

Database
MENU 1 – Go to specified record Selects one record by time/date,

sample ID, and/or patient ID
(more criteria narrows search).
2 – Selection
1 – Select by date, Selects one or more records by

time and ID range of times/dates, sample IDs,
and/or patient IDs.
2 – Select all Selects all records.
3 – Deselect all Deselects all records.
3 – Change sort order
1 – Unsorted Lists records in the order entered

(most recent to oldest).
2 – Sort by time Lists records by measurement time
(oldest to most recent).
3 – Sort by sample ID Lists records by sample ID (highest
to lowest).
4 – Sort by patient ID Lists records by patient ID (highest
to lowest).
4 – Manage selected records
1 – Send selected Sends selected records to a connected

records computer.
2 – Delete selected Deletes selected records from the
records instrument’s database.
3 – Backup selected Saves selected records to a USB drive.
records
5 – View external Reads stored records from USB drive

(insert a USB drive containing saved
HM2 data into one of the instrument’s
USB ports).
6 – Backup one day Backs up all results from a specified
date to a USB drive (insert a USB
drive with sufficient space into one of
the instrument’s USB ports).
GRAPH
Toggle between graph and table display of selected results.
TABLE
PT.ID Opens dialog for viewing/modifying patient information (sample ID

and patient type cannot be changed).
Sample ID Name
Doctor Age
Species Sex
Patient ID

Utilities
1 – Maintenance
1 – Cleaning
1 – Auto self-cleaning Runs cleaning cycle to remove build-

up from instrument’s aperture.
2 – Clean the wash head Moves wash head to cleaning position,
provides cleaning instructions.
2 – Priming Primes reagent lines (use after
replacing reagent).
1 – Prime diluent Primes diluent line (green connector).
2 – Prime lyse Primes lyse line (yellow connector).
3 – Prime rinse Primes rinse line (blue connector).
4 – Prime cleaner Primes cleaner line (white connector).
5 – Prime all Primes all reagent lines.
3 – Drain chamber Drains aperture chamber (use before

moving the instrument).
4 – Reagent status Displays reagent installation date,
usage, and remaining life.
5 – Bleaching Bleaches internal lines (perform with
each change of reagent pack).
6 – Software upgrade Prompts for software upgrade on USB
flash drive, and restarts system.
2 – Calibration
1 – Run Calibrator Performs calibration.
1 – Whole blood Calibrates using Abaxis calibrator

material.
2 – Prediluted blood (1:5) Calibrates using externally diluted
Abaxis calibrator material to ensure
proper calibration of prediluted
samples.
2 – View Calibration History Displays previous calibrations.
3 – Quality control
1 – Set QC reference ranges Updates QC ranges for current QC

lot number.
2 – Run QC Runs QC analysis.
3 – View table of QC measures Displays previous QC measures.
4 – View QC diagram Displays previous QC measures as
Levey-Jennings curve.
5 – Select QC type
1 – Dog
2 – Cat
(continued) 3 – Human

Utilities (continued)
4 – Diagnostics
1 – Device information Shows model, S/N, software version.

2 – Statistics Displays operation statistics.
3 – Self test Tests the analyzer’s internal systems.
5 – Settings
1 – Printer settings Dialog for viewing/modifying

printer settings.
2 – Customize
1 – General Settings Dialog for setting screensaver delay,

VetScan date format, and printing
combined VetScan/HM2 results.
2 – Units Dialog for setting unit preferences.
3 – Laboratory Dialog for laboratory information
(used in report header).
4 – User modes Selects Single or Multi user mode.
1 – Single user mode

2 – Multi user mode Each user has unique user name and
password.
3 – Date and time Dialog for setting date/time & format.
4 – Fluid sensors Enables and disables reagent sensors.
1 – Diluent & Cleaner

2 – Lyse
3 – Rinse
4 – Calibrate sensors Calibrates reagent sensors.
6 – Service Displays contact information for

technical service.
Printing Prints selected test results.
Exit Information/Help function.
1 – Shut down Shuts off the HM2 (use if the unit

will not be used for over 72 hours).
2 – Preparing for shipment Drains and shuts off the HM2 (use
if the unit will be unused for more
than 10 days, or if it will be
shipped).

2.2 Unpacking the System
Follow these directions for unpacking the HM2 analyzer from its shipping container.
Note: Save the shipping box, accessory box, and packaging materials in
case you need to use them later.
Refer to the diagram at right.

1. Open the shipping carton box, and remove the
Thank-You Letter (A) and Unpacking Instruc-
tions (B). Follow the instructions on the Unpack-
ing Instructions (B).
2. Slide the accessory box (D) — located at the
back of the packaging box — up and out of the
shipping carton.
3. Pull the Foam Cap (C) off of the analyzer.
4. Place both hands in the box on opposite sides of
the analyzer, and carefully lift it out of the carton
as shown.
5. Place the instrument temporarily on a clean, level
surface that is free of animal hair, dust, and other
contaminants.
CAUTION: Place the analyzer in upright position only. Do not place the unit
on its back, side, or top, or you could cause severe damage.

6. Use the latch to open the side door on the unit, as
shown.
7. Inspect the unit for any visible signs of damage.

8. Remove the foam above the needle XYZ
moving assembly, and remove the tape
from the top of the counting chamber, as
shown.
9. Open the accessory box, and use this list to make sure you received all components of
the HM2 system:
❑ VetScan HM2 Analyzer
❑ HM2 Operator's Manual (this document)
❑ HM2 Quick Reference Guide
❑ HM2 analyzer external power supply and power cord
❑ HM2 mini-keyboard
❑ Four sample tube adapters
❑ HM2 reagent tubing kit (with color-coded connectors)
❑ Caps for reagent containers (with color-coded connectors)
❑ HM2 cleaning tube kit
❑ Thermal paper rolls (two)
❑ Warranty card (inside the HM2 Operator's Manual)
❑ Spare peristaltic pump tube assembly (store in a convenient location)

Note: The HM2 requires a reagent pack to operate. A reagent pack
(Abaxis Part No. 750-9000) must be ordered for installation.
Note: To start the warranty on the HM2, make sure to complete the war-
ranty card and mail it to Abaxis, Inc. within 10 days of system
installation. Customers who submit the warranty card are automat-
ically placed on the Abaxis customer list, and are entitled free of
charge to all the benefits that Abaxis offers, such as software
upgrades, on-line training, education materials, and promotions.
2.3 Selecting a Location

WARNING: MAKE SURE THE ANALYZER AND ALL ACCESSORIES ARE PROPERLY
GROUNDED. IMPROPER GROUNDING CAN CAUSE INJURY, AND WILL
VOID THE WARRANTY.
The analyzer must be installed in a suitable location. A poor location can adversely affect its
performance. To ensure the accuracy and precision of the instrument, and to maintain a high level
of operational safety for lab personnel, the environmental and electrical requirements in this sec-
tion must be met. Be sure to thoroughly consider all the following requirements in selecting a per-
manent location for the analyzer.
2.3.1 Space Requirements

■ The location should be flat, level, sturdy, vibration-free, and as dust-free as possible.
■ Leave at least 20 inches (about 0.5 m) of clearance on all sides of the instrument to allow
for adequate airflow and access to connectors.
■ Maintain a minimum of 8 inches (0.2 m) behind the analyzer’s rear panel to allow for
heat dissipation and tube clearance.
■ Leave enough space for the reagent pack (see “Connecting the Reagent Pack” on
page 2-24 for details).

2.3.2 Environmental Requirements
CAUTION: Make sure the location stays at an ambient temperature of 59–86 °F

(15–30 °C), and a relative humidity of 65% ± 20%. The optimal
operating temperature is 77 °F (25 °C).
CAUTION: Make sure the area is not exposed to open windows, heat sources,
air conditioners, temperature extremes, or direct sunlight.
■ Make sure the location is well ventilated.

■ Make sure the location is away from devices that can emit radio frequencies, such as a
radio or TV, radar, centrifuge, X-ray device, or fan. Such devices can interfere with the
HM2’s operation.
■ Operating the HM2 at an altitude above 10,000 ft (3000 m) is not recommended.
2.3.3 Electrical Requirements

■ The HM2 is powered by a standard wall outlet, and requires a power supply of
100–240 VAC, 47–63 Hz, 2 A (this is provided with the analyzer).
■ To avoid power surges or drain, DO NOT plug the analyzer’s power supply (provided)
into a circuit that includes a centrifuge or other high-current device.
CAUTION: Abaxis recommends using the analyzer with a surge protector

designed for a computer.
In addition, an uninterruptable power supply (UPS) is strongly rec-

ommended if the analyzer will be used in an area prone to electri-
cal surges or power outages.
An appropriate power supply is vital for the integrity of the sys-

tem.

2.4 Installing the System
Once you’ve selected a location, install the analyzer system as follows.
CAUTION: Make sure all settings are in the off position before proceeding or
before connecting the analyzer to the power supply or to any ancil-
lary devices (such as an external printer, external keyboard, or
computer).
2.4.1 Connecting an External Keyboard (Optional)

■ You can use an external keyboard with a USB connector. Connect its cable to the correct
port on the rear of the analyzer.
2.4.2 Connecting the Power Supply
WARNING: USE ONLY THE POWER SUPPLY PROVIDED WITH THE HM2. USING
ANY OTHER POWER SUPPLY CAN DAMAGE THE INSTRUMENT, AND
WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
1. Plug the power cord from the power supply into the connector on the analyzer’s rear
panel.
2. Plug the other end of the cord into a properly grounded AC outlet (110–230 VAC).
2.4.3 Connecting an External Printer (Optional)

1. Set up the external printer according to the instructions included with it.
Note: Any diskettes or CDs included with the printer are not required for
use with the analyzer, but should be saved in case they are needed
another time.
2. Attach the USB printer cable to a USB A port on the rear of the analyzer, and to the
printer.
3. Plug the printer’s power cord into a grounded outlet.
4. Make sure the analyzer is configured for use with the printer — see “Configuring Printer
Settings” on page 3-2.
5. Turn the printer on before turning on the analyzer.

2.4.4 Connecting a VetScan Chemistry Analyzer (Optional)
Connecting the VetScan HM2 with the VetScan Classic Chemistry Analyzer
1. Make sure the HM2 and the VetScan Classic are both turned off.
2. Connect an RS-232
serial cable (Male-
Female ends), Abaxis
Part No. 981-0102 (5-ft serial port
cable) or 981-0104 (15-

serial port
ft cable), to the serial RS-232
cable
port on the back of the
HM2, and to the female
serial (1) port on the
back of the VetScan
Classic.
3. Turn on the HM2 and
the VetScan Classic.
HM2 VetScan Classic

Connecting the VetScan HM2 with the VetScan VS2 Analyzer
1. Make sure the HM2 and the VS2 are both turned off.
2. Connect a USB Type A-B
HM2 VetScan VS2
cable (Abaxis Part No.
1980-0026) to a USB Type A
port on the back of HM2, and
to a USB Type B port on the USB
back of the VS2. cable
3. Turn on the HM2 and the VS2.
USB ports
(Type A on HM2,
Type B on VS2)
Note: To print VetScan Chemistry Analyzer results on the HM2, the HM2
must be configured to receive data from the VetScan analyzer. For
instructions, see “Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results”
on page 4-16.
2.4.5 Connecting the HM2 to a Computer

The HM2 can be connected to a computer using either a serial cable or USB Type
A-B cable. This enables you to send information from the analyzer for use by a
practice management application or other applications on the computer.
Using a Serial Cable

Connect the analyzer to a serial port on the computer using an RS-232 null modem cable, or a
serial cable and a null modem adapter.

Using a USB Type A-B Cable
The analyzer can be connected to a computer using the USB Type B port on the back of the ana-
lyzer. A software driver must also be installed on the computer to enable communication with the
analyzer.
Note: Do not connect the USB cable until directed to do so.
The following are required to enable the analyzer to communicate with a computer:
■ PC computer with Windows XP or Vista, and at least one USB port
■ USB Type A-B cable (Abaxis Part No. 1980-0026)
■ Flash drive containing the VetScan HM2 software (including the USB driver).
Note: For current information on the availability of the USB driver for
other operating systems, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see
“Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
Step 1 — Installing the HM2 USB Driver
1. Insert a flash drive containing the VetScan HM2 software into the computer. The instal-
lation program then starts automatically.
2. Click Next on the first dialog box that appears on screen, then click Finish on the sec-
ond dialog. Driver installation is then complete.
Step 2 — Connecting the USB Type A-B Cable
■ Connect a USB Type A-B cable to the USB Type B port on the back of the analyzer, and
to a USB Type A port on the computer.
Step 2 — Configuring the USB Driver
The analyzer appears on the computer as a virtual communications port. You will need to use the
computer’s Device Manager to redefine that port’s properties.
1. Click Start > Control Panel.
2. Double-click System.
3. Click the Hardware tab, then click Device Manager.
4. Click the “+” mark next to Ports (COM and LPT).
5. Right-click USB Serial Port (COMx), then select Properties.

6. Click the Port Settings tab, then click Advanced.
7. Select the appropriate COM port from the drop-down list. You may want to make sure
this port matches the COM port used by or selected in your practice management appli-
cation or other software.
8. Click OK.
9. If a warning states that this modification may interfere with current port settings, consult
Abaxis Technical Support or your system administrator before proceeding. If no devices
are connected to the relevant port on the computer, you can confirm this message. Other-
wise, make sure this won't interfere with your computer settings.
Step 4 — Configuring the Analyzer to Communicate with a PC
You can now configure the analyzer to communicate with an interfaced practice management soft-
ware application that runs on the computer. Make sure the selected port for the application matches
the port selected in the above procedure. For detailed configuration information, see “General Set-
tings” on page 3-6.
2.4.6 Connecting the Reagent Pack

Note: During transportation, microbubbles can form in the reagent solu-
tions. These bubbles will affect test results. Before connecting a
reagent pack to the analyzer, allow the pack to stand undisturbed
for 24 to 36 hours to eliminate any bubbles.
CAUTION: If the analyzer has been kept at a temperature below 50 ºF (10 ºC),
allow it to sit for an hour at the correct operating temperature
(59–86 °F, 15–30 °C) before using it.
When installing the analyzer in its permanent location, place the reagent pack according to these
guidelines.
■ Place the reagent pack near the analyzer, either beside or behind the instrument.
■ For best results, place the reagent pack at the same level as the analyzer. If you have to
place the reagent pack on a lower level, make sure that it is no more than 30 inches
(0.75 m) below the level of the analyzer’s reagent inlets, as measured from the bottom of
the reagent pack to the bottom of the analyzer.

WARNING: DO NOT PLACE THE REAGENT PACK ABOVE THE ANALYZER (SUCH
AS ON A SHELF).
DO NOT DROP THE REAGENT PACK — THIS CAN CAUSE MICROBUB-

BLES TO FORM.
CAUTION: When working with the reagent tubing, make sure the tubing does
not become pinched or kinked and is not trapped between or
beneath objects. The reagents must be able to flow through the
tubes freely and without obstruction, or the instrument will not
operate properly.
Connect the reagent pack as follows.
1. Open the plastic bag located in the accessory box, and take out the five color-coded
reagent tubes and caps with drop-down tubes.
2. Locate the color-coded reagent intake valves on the back
of the instrument, as shown.
❑ Green = Diluent
❑ Yellow = Lyse
❑ Blue: = Cleaner
❑ Red = Waste
❑ White = Rinse
3. Remove the protective caps from the intake valves. Save the caps for later use.
Note: The protective valve caps will be needed whenever the analyzer is
moved, to prevent reagents from leaking.
4. Insert the capped ends of the reagent tubes into the corresponding color-coded reagent
intake valves. Finger-tighten the colored caps securely.
CAUTION: Do not overtighten the caps, or you could damage the threads on the connectors.
This will cause the reagents to leak and damage the instrument.

5. Open the reagent pack box. Open each reagent container (lyse, rinse, cleaner, and
diluent) by unscrewing the container caps.
6. Re-cap each container using the bottle cap with the appropriate color-coded connector
and drop-down tube.
Note: Be sure to save the original reagent caps so you can re-cap the con-
tainers when the reagent pack is used up.
7. Using the color codes as guides, attach the free end of each reagent tube to the bottle cap
connector on the appropriate container. Press each tube onto its connector as far as it will
go.
Note: The analyzer is shipped with a flexible waste container, to be used

with the first reagent pack. The diluent bottle included with each
reagent pack is designed to be used as the waste container for the
subsequent reagent pack.
CAUTION: Make sure the small air vent on each container cap is not blocked,
and that free airflow is maintained at all times.
Do not touch the drop-down tubes with your hands, or you could
contaminate the reagents. If you must handle the drop-down tubes,
be sure to wear gloves.
CAUTION: Make sure each tube runs from the reagent intake valve to its corre-
sponding reagent bottle. Use the color codes as guides. If the tubes
are not connected correctly, the instrument will not produce accu-
rate results.
If you let the reagent tubes pass through the openings on the
reagent pack, make sure the top of the reagent pack does not kink
or pinch the tubing.

2.5 Turning the Analyzer On and Off
2.5.1 Turning the Analyzer On
CAUTION: If the analyzer has been kept at a temperature below 50 ºF (10 ºC),
allow it to sit for an hour at the correct operating temperature
(59–86 °F, 15–30 °C) before using it.
1. If you have an external printer or a computer connected to the analyzer, turn on the
power to the printer/computer before starting the analyzer.
2. Turn on the analyzer on using the power switch on
the upper left of its rear panel. The on position is
marked by the I symbol.
The analyzer then displays several screens while it

runs its software start-up procedure.
Note: To initialize the analyzer, see “Initializing the VetScan HM2” on

page 2-30.
2.5.2 Turning the Analyzer Off
CAUTION: Never switch the analyzer by simply pressing the power switch on
the rear panel, unless an emergency exists, or if you will turn the
instrument on again in only a few minutes.
CAUTION: When the analyzer is shut down properly as described below, it

rinses its fluidic system. Since the analyzer uses isotonic saline
solution, the salt from the solution may not be rinsed out properly if
you simply turn off the power. This could lead to salt build-up in the
system. Therefore, always follow the instructions in this section
when turning off the analyzer.
CAUTION: If an emergency occurs, turn off the analyzer using the power
switch on the back of the instrument, and unplug the power cord
from its outlet.

If the Analyzer Will Not Be Used for 72 Hours or More
Shut down the instrument as follows.
1. Press the Exit key on the front panel.
2. Select Shut down, then press the YES soft-
function key when asked to confirm.
The analyzer displays a message and sounds a
tone when it’s safe to shut it off.
3. Turn off the analyzer using the power switch on
the rear panel. The off position is marked by the
O symbol.
Note: If you perform fewer than ten CBC samples a week, Abaxis strongly
recommends that you shut down the analyzer once a week. This
will prevent salt from building up in the system, and increase the
instrument’s efficiency.
If the Analyzer Will Not Be Used for 10 Days Or More, or Will Be Shipped
Shut down and prepare the instrument as follows. You will need the cleaning tube kit (shown on
page 2-10) and 100 ml of distilled water for this procedure.
1. Press the Exit key on the front panel.
2. Select Preparing for shipment, then press the
YES soft-function key when asked to con-
firm.
The display then shows “Pneumatic system is
initializing. Please wait.”
3. Follow the instructions that appear on the dis-

play. When prompted, remove the four reagent
tubing connectors (green, yellow, blue, and
white) from the reagent tubing intake valves,
but leave the waste tubing connected.

4. When prompted, connect the cleaning tube kit to the reagent
connectors, as shown.
5. Submerge the free end in a bottle containing at least 100 ml of

distilled water.
6. Press ACCEPT . The analyzer then flushes any remaining reagents
into the waste container.
7. When prompted, remove the cleaning tube kit.

Press ACCEPT .
8. When the analyzer displays “Now it is safe to turn off the instrument,” turn off the ana-
lyzer using the power switch on its rear panel.
9. Disconnect the waste tubing. The analyzer is now ready for shipment or extended non-
use.
10. If you need to prepare the analyzer for shipment, continue with the instructions in “Pre-
paring the Analyzer for Shipment” on page 9-10.

2.6 Initializing the VetScan HM2
Use this procedure to initialize the HM2 after installation, or after it has been turned back on after
an extended shut-down.
1. Press the Measurement/Analysis key. The

analyzer then initializes its pneumatic system
and runs a blank measurement. When the pro-
cess is complete, the instrument displays the
result of the blank measurement.
2. When the blank measurement is OK, press

ACCEPT to accept the results.
The analyzer then displays a sample measure-
ment screen, as shown, and is now ready to per-
form an analysis.
Note: You will be notified if the blank does not fall within specifications
(these are listed on page 4-6). If this occurs, run one to three clean-
ing cycles (see “Cleaning the Aperture” on page 7-5), and re-run
the blank as needed until it falls in range (no flags, and “Blank
OK” is displayed on the screen). If the problem persists, call
Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Technical Sup-
port” on page 1-2.
3. Verify the HM2’s system settings, and make any needed changes — see “Configuring
the VetScan HM2” on page 3-1.
4. If you are installing a new system, or have moved the analyzer or its reagent pack to new
locations, recalibrate the fluid sensors to maximize the number of tests performed per
reagent pack on your system — see “Fluid Sensor Settings” on page 3-13.
5. Allow the analyzer and its reagents to fully reach room temperature (usually about five
minutes) before beginning an analysis. This will avoid damage from condensation
caused by rapid temperature changes, as well as interference and background “noise”
caused by microbubbles in the reagents during installation.

2.7 Standby Mode
The analyzer automatically enters a power-saving
standby mode after a period of standing idle. When in
standby mode, the analyzer displays a “Ready” screen as
shown at right, with rotating information at the bottom of
the screen showing available user functions.
The analyzer can remain in standby for up to 72 hours.
To bring the analyzer out of standby, simply press any key.

Section 3 Configuring the
VetScan HM2
This section describes how to configure the VetScan HM2 for optimal
performance and to meet your particular lab requirements.
Section Contents
3.1 Printer Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

3.1.1 Configuring Printer Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.1.2 Printout Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3.1.3 Troubleshooting Printer Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
3.2 Operational Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3.2.1 General Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
3.2.2 Unit Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
3.2.3 Laboratory Information Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
3.2.4 User Mode Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
3.3 Date and Time Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
3.4 Fluid Sensor Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Configuring the VetScan HM2 3-1

3.1 Printer Settings
3.1.1 Configuring Printer Settings
Before using a printer, you must configure the analyzer for the printer and its requirements.
1. Press the key, then select Settings.

2. Select Printer settings.
3. If an acceptable Hewlett-Packard™ printer is

plugged into the USB port, the analyzer displays
the printer name as shown:
4. Press PG DN to see additional settings.
You can select color printing (set Enable color

print to Yes) or black and white (set Enable color
print to No).
5. Press the ACCEPT soft key to accept the printer settings.
Note: Most models of HP DeskJet printers and some HP LaserJet printers

are compatible with the HM2.
However, before you purchase a printer for use with your HM2,
please check with Abaxis Technical Support to make sure that
printer is supported.
3-2 Configuring the VetScan HM2

Note: Although the HM2 can be connected to any printer compatible with
any of the above printer languages, printout sizes and fonts may
vary depending on manufacturer and printer settings. Abaxis car-
ries printers that have been tested and validated specifically for
use with the HM2. For best results, Abaxis highly recommends
using only printers validated by Abaxis. For a current list and fur-
ther information, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Cus-
tomer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
6. Select from the options in Table 3-1, below.

❑ Use the and keys to change the settings, and the keypad or external
keyboard to enter text or numbers.
❑ Use the and
PGUP PGDN soft keys and the and keys to move
through the settings.
❑ Use PGUP and PGDN to move between page of settings.
Table 3-1: Printer Settings

Setting Description
Paper Letter or A4.
Quality Select Draft for a quick, lower quality printout. Select Normal for the best
printing.
Unit Default unit for print margins: inch or cm.
Top Margin Margin across the top of the page.
Left Margin Margin on the left edge of the paper.
Print Histograms Select Yes to print histograms with test results.
Print Warning Flags Select Yes to include all warning flags in the printouts. Warning flags indi-
cate that something is wrong in the sample. Flags appear on the screen
even when not printed
Autoprint Select Yes to print every run after analysis is complete. Select No if you are
combining results with a chemistry analyzer (these results are automatically
printed when the chemistry data is transmitted).
Enable Color Print Select Yes for color printing of highlighted results, etc. Select No for a black/
white printout.
7. Press the ACCEPT soft key to accept the settings.

3.1.2 Printout Examples
8 x 11.5 Letter Printout
Report header
Sample ID
(assigned
automatically) Patient
information
Patient
information Report date
(assigned
Patient automatically)
species and HM2
serial number
WBC
histogram
RBC
histogram
Test
parameters PLT
histogram
Test results
Test result Reference ranges shows location of

units test results within
reference range limits
lower upper
limit limit

3.1.3 Troubleshooting Printer Settings
Use this table to solve problems related to printer settings.
Table 3-2: Troubleshooting Printer Settings
Problem Possible Causes / Solutions
Incorrect characters appear on the printout. Make sure the correct printed is selected under
Printer.
Right side of the printed report is missing or • Decrease the Left Margin and Top Margin.
appears on the next line. • Verify the selected Unit.
End of the printout appears on the next page. Decrease the Left Margin and Top Margin.
Another patient report could fit on the page. Increase the Left Margin and Top Margin.
Printed result is not centered horizontally. Modify the Left Margin.
Printed result is not centered vertically. Modify the Top Margin.

3.2 Operational Settings
Use the Customize menu to set the language and date format used by the HM2, along with the
screensaver delay, and the date range used for printing combined results from the HM2 and a con-
nected VetScan analyzer.
3.2.1 General Settings

1. Press the Utilities key .
2. Select Settings.
3. Select Customize.
4. Select General Settings.

5. Configure the settings as needed.
■ Use the and keys to move through
the settings.
■ Use the and keys to change the set-
tings, and the keypad or an external key-
board to enter text or numbers.
■ Use the on-screen and PGDN
PGUP
soft keys to move between pages of set-

tings.
The table below describes the available settings.

Table 3-3: General Settings
Screensaver wait time 0 to 30 minutes (0 = screensaver off).
Language English. International customers: please contact your distributor for
information about available languages.
PC Link Offline, USB, Baud rate (150 to 115200). Protocol used by the ana-
lyzer to communicate with a connected computer.
– If the analyzer is not connected to a computer, choose Offline.
– If the analyzer is connected to a computer using a USB cable,
choose USB.
– If the analyzer is connected to a computer through serial cable, 9600
is correct for most cases, or you can contact Abaxis Technical Support
for the correct setting — see “Customer and Technical Support” on
page 1-2.
Serial Protocol Version 1.0, 1.7, 2.20, 2.23, 3.0, or 3.1. Protocol versions used by practice
management software to interface with the analyzer. Contact Abaxis
Technical Support (see page 1-2) or your practice management soft-
ware provider for the proper selection. (Newer versions have higher
numbers.)
Serial’s Decimal Dot Dot (period), slash, comma, or lang def (as defined by language).
VSx Link Offline, USB, or RS232. Protocol used by the HM2 to communicate
with a connected VetScan Classic or VS2 for combining results.
– If the HM2 is not connected to a VetScan Classic or VS2, choose
Offline.
– If the HM2 is connected to a VetScan VS2 through a USB cable,
choose USB.
– If the HM2 is connected to VetScan Classic through a serial cable,
choose RS232.
Date format of VetScan When printing combined HM2 and VetScan results, the date format
used by the VetScan: MM/DD/YY or DD/MM/YY (DD = date,
MM = month, YY = year). Set both instruments to the same format.

Table 3-3: General Settings (Continued)
VetScan-HM2 combining 365, 90, 60, 30, 15, 8, 5, 3, 1 day, Same day, Don’t care. When print-
within ing combined results from the HM2 and VetScan Classic or VS2,
defines the time range within which HM2 and VetScan hematology
results will be paired: HM2 Patient ID number is paired with the Patient
Number on the VetScan Classic, or with the Sample ID on the VS2.
For example, if the clinic uses the same patient ID numbers each day,
so that a given number may be assigned to more than one patient,
select Same day to avoid inadvertently pairing results from different
patients. Chemistry and hematology results using the same patient ID
number will then only be paired if run in the same day.
If this is not a requirement, use Don’t care. The HM2 then matches
the most recent results on the VetScan Classic or VS2.
6. Press the ACCEPT soft key to accept the settings.
3.2.2 Unit Settings

Use the Units menu to set the measurement units the HM2 will use.

2. Select Settings.
4. Select Units.

5. Set the units as needed:
■ Use the and keys to select a unit.
■ Use the and keys to select a setting
for that unit.
Table 3-4 lists the available unit settings.

Table 3-4: Unit Settings
Count unit cells/liter (cells/l), cells/µl (cells/µl). Prec. displays a more pre-
cise value.
HGB unit grams/liter (g/l), grams/deciliter (g/dl), millimols/liter (mmol/l)
PCT, HCT unit percentage (%), absolute (abs)
RDW, PDW mode standard deviation (sd), coefficient of variation (cv)
6. Press the ACCEPT soft-key to save the settings.
3.2.3 Laboratory Information Settings

Enter your clinic or laboratory information as follows, to be printed automatically on report head-
ers. You can also use this procedure to edit or change this information.

2. Select Settings.

4. Select Laboratory.
5. Enter the name and address of your clinic or

laboratory. Press OK to move to the next line.
You can enter up to 40 characters in each line.
6. Press ACCEPT to accept the setting.
3.2.4 User Mode Settings

If you want to require users to log in and enter passwords to use the HM2, and to be able to track
individual usage of the unit, you can enable the HM2’s Multi user mode. This will require each
user to have a unique user ID and password.
Note: In general, Single user mode is recommended unless the specific

features enabled by Multi user mode are required.

2. Select Settings.

4. Select User modes.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to enable

Multi user mode, to add or modify users, or to
change a user’s password.
CAUTION: Write down user names and passwords and store them in a secure
location. If this information is lost, you will need to contact Abaxis
Technical Support (see page 1-2) to reset the HM2.

3.3 Date and Time Settings
The date and time of each analysis is stored with the results. Use the Date and Time menu to set the
HM2’s built-in clock and calendar, and the format used to display the date.
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Settings.

2. Select Date and time.
3. Select Set date and time.
4. Type in the date and time (use the and

keys to select AM or PM), then press ACCEPT .
5. Select formats for displaying the date (item 2, 3,

or 4) and time (item 5 or 6), then press EXIT .
6. Press ACCEPT to accept the settings.

3.4 Fluid Sensor Settings
The fluid sensors allow the HM2 to monitor reagent consumption correctly. To maximize the life
of the reagent pack, recalibrate the fluid sensors in the following situations:
■ on installation
■ when the instrument is moved to a new location
■ if the reagent pack is moved relative to the instrument (changed distance or height of the
pack relative to the instrument)
Recalibrate the fluid sensors as follows.
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Settings.

2. Select Fluid Sensors.
3. Make sure all fluid sensors are on (checked).
To turn on a sensor, select it and press OK so

that its box is checked.
4. If a message indicates that one or more fluid

sensors are disabled, turn those sensors on, then
select Calibrate sensors.

Section 4 Test Procedure and
Interpreting Results
This section describes how to prepare and analyze samples with the
HM2, as well as how to interpret and print results.
Section Contents
4.1 Collecting and Preparing Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

4.1.1 Sample Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4.1.2 Storing Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4.2 Before Performing an Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.2.1 Daily Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.2.2 Check Reagent Status and Tubing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.2.3 Run a Blank Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4.3 Analyzing a Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
4.4 Adjusting the Needle Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
4.5 Adjusting the Lyse Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
4.6 Interpreting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4.6.1 CBC Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4.6.2 Histograms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4.7 Printing and Exporting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4.7.1 Printing Saved Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4.7.2 Exporting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
4.8 Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4.8.1 Combining Saved Results with a VetScan Classic . . . . 4-16
4.8.2 Combining VS2 Results During Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
4.8.3 Printout Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
4.9 Using Prediluted Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
4.10 Interpreting CBC Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-1

4.1 Collecting and Preparing Samples
Because sample integrity is essential for accurate test results, always follow the optimal sample
collection and proper sample handling techniques described in this section.
Note: For multiple tube draws, always fill in this order: 1) red top,
2) green top, 3) lavender top.
CAUTION: Use tubes containing EDTA only for CBC analysis.
4.1.1 Sample Quality

The quality of the blood sample will directly affect the quality of the analysis results. Follow the
recommendations below for optimal results.
■ Selecting an anti-coagulant: Use manufactured EDTA lavender-top tubes for blood

storage.
■ Discarding the first portion of the blood sample: To prevent hair and skin pieces from
getting into the sample, discard the first few drops of blood after collection.
■ Filling blood tubes correctly:
❑ Each tube must be filled at least half full to avoid inaccuracy due to improper dilu-
tion of EDTA.
❑ When using homemade containers pre-dosed with EDTA, the final concentration of
EDTA in the blood should not exceed 3 mg/ml.
■ Mixing samples thoroughly:
❑ Even the most minute blood clots can adversely affect results. To avoid clotting,
thoroughly mix each sample immediately after filling the tube by gently inverting
the filled EDTA sample tube by hand 10 to 15 times.
❑ If testing is delayed and the sample was placed on a rocker, be sure to mix it thor-
oughly again before analysis by gently inverting the tube 10 to 15 times. This
ensures the homogeneity of the sample.
■ Discarding clotted samples: Before analysis, visually check all samples for clots while
rocking the sample tube in your fingers. This is especially important for difficult sample
draws. If you suspect a clot, swirl a wooden applicator stick through the sample: if you
see clots or fibrin strands, discard the sample, and collect a fresh sample.
4-2 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

Note: Do not shake samples! Doing so can damage the blood cells, and
can form microbubbles that will cause inaccurate results.
Note: Never use a rocker for samples smaller than 1.0 ml.
Note: Rockers do not mix samples. Each sample must be inverted by hand
10 to 15 times immediately after drawing, and then 10 to 15 times
again before running the sample.
Note: Feline samples frequently demonstrate platelet aggregation

(clumps). Vortex mixing for up to 30 seconds can disaggregate
these clumps with no adverse effect on the sample. Some practitio-
ners find that collecting blood from the medial saphenous vein
using a vacutainer minimizes platelet clumping.
4.1.2 Storing Samples

Analysis is best performed with a fresh, anti-coagulated sample. Always use proper sample han-
dling technique, and make sure the sample is well mixed. If analysis is to take place more than
4 hours after the sample is obtained, refrigerate the sample at 36–46 ºF (2–8 ºC), and test the sam-
ple within 8 hours.
Note: When analyzing a refrigerated sample, be sure to warm the sample

to room temperature before analysis. Roll the sample tube between
your palms to speed up warming. This also helps mix the sample. If
the sample is not mixed correctly, PLTs and WBCs can form
clumps, causing erroneous results. Mix the sample thoroughly
again before analysis.

4.2 Before Performing an Analysis
CAUTION: If the analyzer has been kept at a temperature below 50 °F (10 °C),
such as during shipment or a power failure, allow it to stand for an
hour at the correct operating temperature before turning it on —
see “Environmental Requirements” on page 2-19.
Note: Each day, before analyzing samples, perform the procedures in this
section to make sure the instrument is in proper operating condi-
tion.
The HM2 automatically goes into standby mode after a period of standing idle. Press any button to
bring the analyzer out of standby.
4.2.1 Daily Cleaning

1. Wipe up any spills on the sample rotor.
2. Keep the instrument and immediate sur-
roundings as clean as possible.
Sample tube
adapter
Sample rotor
4.2.2 Check Reagent Status and Tubing

1. Check the status of the reagent pack to make sure enough reagent is available for sample
analysis for the day — see “Viewing Status Information” on page 8-2.
If any reagent is at a level of 10% or less, change the reagent pack soon to ensure reliable
results. For instructions, see “Changing the Reagent Pack” on page 7-8.
2. Inspect the reagent tubes and connections to make sure the reagents can flow freely.
Make sure the tubes are not pinched, kinked, or trapped between or beneath objects.

3. Check the reagent lines (except the red waste line) for bubbles or air gaps. If any exist,
prime the affected tubes as follows.
a. Press the Utilities key , then select Maintenance.
b. Select Priming.
c. Select the line to prime.
d. Repeat as needed until all air gaps
are removed.
Note: Air gaps in the waste line (red) are normal.
4.2.3 Run a Blank Measurement

A blank measurement checks the cleanliness of the HM2’s fluidic system, and is used to establish a
baseline for sample measurements. The results of a blank are used to determine if the background
will affect the test results, and whether the HM2 needs cleaning or maintenance.
Note: A blank must be run every 12 hours. Each blank measurement

remains valid for 12 hours of continuous operation, after which the
HM2 displays “BLANK needed,” and a new blank must be run.
1. If “BLANK needed” appears on the screensaver,

press the Measurement/Analysis key .
The HM2 then runs a blank measurement, and dis-

plays the results.

2. Check the displayed results, and make sure the following CBC parameters fall within the
ranges shown for an acceptable blank:
Table 4-1: Acceptable Blank Parameters
Measurement Allowed range

WBC 0.0 to 0.5x103 cells/µl
RBC 0.0 to 0.05x106 cells/µl
PLT 0 to 25x103 cells/µl
HGB 0 to 10 g/l
■ If the values are within the allowed ranges: proceed to step 3, below.
■ If the values are not within the allowed ranges (the message “UNSUCCESSFUL
BLANK MEASURE” is displayed):
a. Repeat the measurement by pressing the

REPEAT soft key.
b. If the new results are still above the accept-
able ranges, run one to three cleaning
cycles (see “Cleaning the Aperture” on
page 7-5), and re-run the blank (up to sev-
eral times).
c. If the results still do not fall within the acceptable range, run a bleach-clean-
ing — see “Bleach-Cleaning” on page 7-5.
d. If the problem persists, call Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and
Technical Support” on page 1-2.
3. When the blank measurement is OK, press ACCEPT to
accept the results. The HM2 is then ready for analy-
sis.
Note: To run a blank measurement other than at startup (such as for trou-
bleshooting), press the Measurement/Analysis key , then
press the MENU soft key, then select Measure blank.

4.3 Analyzing a Sample
Use this general procedure to analyze samples with the HM2.
1. Prepare a well-mixed, EDTA-preserved sample — see “Collecting and Preparing Sam-

ples” on page 4-2 for details.
2. Select the appropriate sample tube adapter (see below), and place the adapter into the
sampling rotor.
Tube adapter (3 ml) Microtube adapter Controls/calibrator Vacutainer adapter

adapter
Note: Sponge disks are provided Sponge plate

for the microtube adapter. If for microtainer
adapter
you have a very “short”
sample, you can put the
sponge disk into the micro-
tube adapter to raise the
tube height.
3. Press the Measurement/Analysis key , and

select PT.ID.

4. Enter the species: view the available profiles using the and keys. Press the keypad
OK key to move to the next field.
5. Enter other patient identification data as indicated.
■ Use the OK key and the and keys to move through the settings.
■ Use the and keys to change the settings, and the keypad or external keyboard
to enter text or numbers.
Note: When using the HM2 in

conjunction with the
VetScan Classic, make sure
the Patient ID number on
the HM2 is the same as the
Patient Number on the
VetScan Classic.
When using the HM2 with the VetScan VS2, make sure the Patient
ID number on the HM2 is the same as the Patient ID on the VS2.
Otherwise, the results will not print together.
■ Press the ACCEPT soft key to accept the settings.
Note: Make sure the species for the sample — displayed in the upper
right corner of the screen — is correct. The sample will be pro-
cessed and tested according to the species selected.
6. Gently mix the sample by inverting the tube 10 to 15

times. Then remove the cap from the tube and place
the tube into the sample adaptor as shown at right.
7. Begin analysis by pressing the Start button .
Analysis is complete in less than three minutes. All

results and histograms are automatically saved in the
HM2’s database.

8. When analysis is complete, a results screen dis-
plays all measured and calculated parameters as
well as the WBC, RBC, and PLT histograms:
You can view the results as follows:

■ Use the PREV and NEXT soft keys to move through the results.
■ If the HM2 is not set to print results automatically, press the Print key to print the
results. (See “Printing and Exporting Results” on page 4-15 for details.)
Results falling outside of the specified species reference

range are marked as follows:
■ Results higher than the species reference range
are highlighted in black and marked with a plus
sign (+).
■ Results falling below the reference range are
highlighted and marked with a minus sign (-).
■ Warnings and errors flags are indicated using upper- and lower-case letters at the bot-
tom.
See “Troubleshooting” on page 9-1 for details about identifying and resolving any identified flags.
For details on results and interpretation, see “Interpreting Results” on page 4-12.

4.4 Adjusting the Needle Height
Adjust the HM2’s needle height when you switch from one tube type to another, when you run a
control, or when the sample volume is low enough to require it.
1. Press the Measurement/Analysis key , then press the MENU soft key.
2. Press Needle Height Setting repeatedly to
cycle through the available needle heights:
A:-2mm, B: 0mm, C: 5mm, D: 10mm, and
E: 15mm.
3. When the correct needle height is displayed,
press ACCEPT .
Use this table and diagram as a guide to appropriate needle height settings.
Table 5: Needle Heights

Setting and
Needle Height Suitable Situations E: 15 mm
D: 10 mm
A:-2mm Measuring control or short sample
C: 5 mm
B: 0mm Default setting
B: 0 mm
C: 5mm Using a false-bottom tube ~3–4 mm
A: –2 mm
D: 10mm Have plenty of blood sample
E: 15mm Have plenty of blood sample
Note: For normal round bottom, vacuum sample tubes, and control vials,
use the default setting B: 0mm.
Use C: 5 mm for most false-bottom tubes. These tubes have raised

ridges at the bottom that reduce the storage space.

4.5 Adjusting the Lyse Volume
The lyse volume generally only needs adjustment if a histogram indicates over- or under-lysing
(this is relatively rare). If you receive such a histogram, contact Abaxis Technical Support before
adjusting the lyse volume — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2. When needed,
adjust the lyse volume as follows.
1. Press the Measurement/Analysis key , then press the MENU soft key.
2. Press Lyse Volume or OK on the keypad
repeatedly to cycle through the available vol-
umes:
■ 0.50 ml
■ 0.50+0.1 ml
■ 0.50+0.2 ml
■ 0.50-0.1 ml
■ 0.50-0.2 ml
3. When the correct volume is displayed, press ACCEPT .

4.6 Interpreting Results
The HM2 produces a printed report containing the patient ID, measurement data, numeric results
with flags (if any), and histograms showing the three different cell populations.
The following graphic shows a set of typical results and histograms:

4.6.1 CBC Parameters
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) parameters included in the results are useful for assessing the
overall health of the patient, as well as identifying and monitoring certain disease states.
Note: Always check whether the results include any warning flags — see
“Warning Indicators” on page 9-2.
For details about CBC parameters and associated clinical indications, see “Interpreting CBC
Parameters” on page 4-22.
4.6.2 Histograms
Histograms display population distributions of each cell type: leukocytes (white blood cells —
WBC), erythrocytes (red blood cells — RBC) and thrombocytes (platelets — PLT). The histo-
grams show the relative frequency (percentage) of cells on the vertical (Y) axis, and cell volume in
femtoliters (fl) on the horizontal (X) axis.
Histograms enable you to quickly scan results for abnormalities, and also allow the versed practi-
tioner to derive more information about the sample than is displayed by the values alone. The fol-
lowing pages describe each of the three histograms (WBC, RBC, and PLT), and show a typical
example of each with an explanation.
White Blood Cell Histogram (WBC)

The WBC histogram shows white blood cell popula- discriminator 1
discriminator 2
tions sorted by size. Cells larger than discriminator 1 discriminator 3
are counted as WBCs. Blood includes three WBC
populations:
■ Lymphocytes (LYM), shown by the first
peak in the histogram.
■ Monocytes (MON), indicated by the area (fl)
between the second and third discriminators LYM GRA
(although the MON region does demon- MON
strate a distinctive peak of its own, this peak

is not always clear in histogram form).
■ Granulocytes (GRA), indicated by the peak to the right of the third discriminator.

The histogram on the previous page shows the lymphoctye cell population (LYM in the CBC
parameters) to be in the range 33–95 fl. The two other discriminators define a MON population of
95–102 fl, and a GRA population of > 102 fl (above discriminator 3).
Neutrophils normally make up the vast majority of the granulocytes, although considerable
increases in eosinophils/basophils from an allergic or parasitic condition may be identified by the
presence of an additional peak between the monocyte and primary granulocyte populations.
Note: Measurements detected to the left of or near the first discriminator

can include nucleated RBCs, and giant or clumped platelets.
Red Blood Cell Histogram (RBC)

The distribution of red blood cells normally appears
as a single, steep bell curve. The presence of distinc-
tive cell populations of various sizes, such as occurs
in anemia, can be identified by the presence of more
than one peak in the RBC histogram.
(fl)
This RBC histogram follows a normal distribution,
with the RDW value within the normal range, and with the histogram normalized (100% fit) to the
RBC peak.
Platelet Histogram (PLT)

The PLT histogram is a magnified portion of the
beginning of the RBC histogram.
The example PLT histogram at right follows a log-

normal distribution, with a good separation from
RBCs.
The most commonly identified anomaly in platelet histograms results from aggregated (clumped)
platelets. This appears as a flattened, lumpy histogram.
Note: Feline samples may demonstrate platelet aggregation (clumps).

Careful sample collection and vortex mixing for up to 30 seconds
can avoid or disaggregate clumps with no adverse effect on the
sample.
See “Veterinary Case Studies” on page D-1 for a variety of sample test results and interpretations.

4.7 Printing and Exporting Results
The analyzer can print a wide range of results, statistics, and settings, and prints analysis results
automatically if the Autoprint function is selected (see Table 3-1 on page 3-3). If Autoprint is not
selected, you can print by pressing the Print key .
Note: Printouts from the integrated (thermal) printer last approximately

one year. To ensure the results remain legible for longer, photocopy
the printout. Do not expose the thermal paper printout to heat
extremes. Heat causes the printout to deteriorate more rapidly.
■ To print any displayed screen, press the Print key .
For instructions on connecting and setting up an external printer, see “Printer Settings” on
page 3-2.
4.7.1 Printing Saved Results

The HM2 automatically stores the most recent 1,000 test results (record 1,001 overwrites record 1,
record 1,002 overwrites record 2, and so on). For more information about saved results, see “Data-
base Table” on page 6-2.
■ To print a single saved result, press the Database key . Use the and keys to
highlight the record, then press the Print key .
■ To print multiple saved results, press the Database key , then press the OK key to
select the records to print (as indicated by filled boxes in the SmpID column). When the
records to print are selected, press the Print key .
4.7.2 Exporting Results

You can export results through the HM2’s serial port or USB Type B port, using a special software
interface developed specially to communicate with the VetScan HM2. For availability, check with
Abaxis Technical Support (see page 1-2) or your data management system (DMS) provider.
■ To export a saved result, press the Database key , select the result, then select the
“Send Selected Records” function in the Database menu.
Note: Abaxis does not create interface programs for data management
software, but can initiate the process with your current software
provider. For further information, please contact Abaxis Technical
Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.

4.8 Combining Chemistry and Hematology
Results
The HM2 can print results from a connected VetScan Classic or VetScan VS2 analyzer. The HM2
can print the VetScan results only, or the combined VetScan and HM2 results for a given patient ID.
(For connection instructions, see “Connecting a VetScan Chemistry Analyzer (Optional)” on
page 2-21.)
Printing VetScan results requires that the HM2 be configured to receive data from the VetScan (see
“General Settings” on page 3-6). This is normally done on installation. If you have questions, con-
tact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
4.8.1 Combining Saved Results with a VetScan Classic

To export combined VetScan Classic and HM2 data, first display the CBC results to be combined
on the HM2, then do the following on the VetScan:
1. Press the RECALL key. The following

appears: Press ENTER to
Recall Results
MENU for next option
EXIT to leave.
2. Press ENTER. The following appears:

Recall:1 Results
1-Patient results
2-Patient flags
ENTER to accept.
3. Press ENTER to select patient results. The fol-

lowing appears: Recall:1 Single
1-Single result card
2-All patients
ENTER to accept.
4. Press ENTER to select a single result. The fol-

lowing appears: Select:1 Print
1-Print result card
2-Transmit patient
ENTER to accept.
5. Press 2 and ENTER to transmit.
If the Patient IDs match, both results will be transmitted.

4.8.2 Combining VS2 Results During Testing
1. Use a USB cable to connect the printer to the HM2.
2. Turn on the printer, then turn on the HM2 and the VetScan VS2.
3. Make sure the HM2 uses the same date format as the VS2 — see “Date and Time Set-
To combine results, the patient ID on the HM2 result must match that of the patient ID
(VS2, if alternate ID is not selected) or sample ID (if VS2 sample ID is enabled).
4. Configure the HM2’s printer settings as follows (see “Printer Settings” on page 3-2 for
instructions):
■ Set the Top Margin and Left Margin to 0.5 in (1 cm).
■ Set Print Histograms to Yes.
■ Set Print Warning Flags to Yes (recommended).
■ Set Autoprint to No.
■ Set Enable Color Print as preferred
5. Configure the HM2’s general settings as follows (see “General Settings” on page 3-6):
■ Set PC Link to Offline.
■ Set VSx Link to USB.
■ Set VetScan-HM2 combining within as needed.
6. To print a VetScan result only:
Note: Be sure to set VetScan-HM2 combining within the time frame so

that no matching record will exist in the HM2. For example, if a
VetScan analysis was run for a given patient 5 days ago, you would
set VetScan-HM2 combining within to 4 days or less to exclude
any earlier records.
As long as no matching HM2 record exists, the VS2 results will print.
Note: If you run HM2 and VS2 analyses for the same patient on the same
day and want to print only the HM2 result, you can change the
patient ID on the HM2 so that there will be no matching record.

7. To print combined HM2 and VS2 results:
Note: The Patient ID of the HM2 record must match the Sample ID field
of the VS2 record.
■ Start the CBC first, and then run the chemistry rotor.
When the rotor finishes, the VS2 automatically transmits the results to the HM2,
and the HM2 prints out the combined results.

4.8.3 Printout Examples
8 x 11.5 Letter Printout — HM2 + VetScan Chemistry Results
Report Test time

header (assigned automatically)
Patient Patient
information information
Patient Report date

species (assigned
automatically)
and HM2
serial number
WBC histogram
Test
parameters
RBC histogram
Test results
and units
Reference
PLT histogram
ranges
VetScan
results
lower shows location upper

limit of test results limit
within reference
range limits

4.9 Using Prediluted Mode
The HM2 software provides a special predilution function for use in the following situations:
■ if an insufficient amount of blood is available for a routine CBC
■ if the CBC results are abnormally high (non-linear), resulting in an m, M, or N flag (see
“Warning Indicators” on page 9-2)
Note: Before using prediluted mode, always call Abaxis Technical Sup-
port — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
Perform an external predilution of the sample using HM2 reagent diluent, or an isotonic saline
solution. Dilute the sample by a 1:6 ratio (1 part sample to 5 parts diluent) — for example, 50 μl
sample to 250 μl diluent or saline. Mix well.
Note: Prediluted mode must be calibrated before use. The HM2 is cali-
brated at installation, and can be recalibrated as described in
“Calibration” on page 5-2 (select Prediluted blood (1:5) as the
calibrator).
After the dilution, perform a QC run for the 1:5 diluted quality
control blood. See “Performing Quality Control” on page 5-6 for
instructions.
Perform the analysis as follows.
1. Press the Measurement/Analysis key ,

then press the MENU soft key.
2. Select Prediluted mode. (The accompanying

checkbox is filled in.)

3. Press the ACCEPT soft key. Notice that “1:5”
now appears in the upper left corner of the
screen.
4. If you are processing a new sample: press the

PT.ID soft key, enter the patient information,
then press ACCEPT .
If you are processing a sample that has

already been tested as non-prediluted: select
Repeat Last Sample to avoid re-entering the
patient information.
5. Press the Start button to begin the analy-

sis. The HM2 will automatically calculate the
results with the 1:5 predilution factor.
Note: The HM2 automatically returns to normal mode after the predi-
luted analysis completes.

4.10 Interpreting CBC Parameters
Complete Blood Count (CBC) parameters are useful in assessing the overall wellness of a patient,
as well as for identifying and monitoring certain disease states.
The following tables outline the various CBC parameters and associated clinical indications.
Table 4-1: White Blood Cells and Associated Indications
White Blood Cell

(Leukocyte) Role Increase in Disease State Decrease in Disease State
Non-Granulocytic
Lymphocytes B-cells: humoral immunity • Chronic inflammation • Acute/severe disease
(antibody synthesis) • Acute infection/recovery • Viral disease
T-cells: cellular immunity • Lymphocytic anemia • Endotoxemia
• Hypoadrenocorticism • Hyperadrenocorticism
• Stress-related corticos-
teroid response
Monocytes Immature macrophages — Necrotic, malignant, hemor- Rare, no known significance
phagocytosis of debris/for- rhagic, or immune-mediated
eign material, killer-cell acti- disease
vation
Granulocytes
Neutrophils Phagocytize/kill microorgan- • Inflammation • Bacterial infection
isms, initiate and modify • Neoplasm • Viral infection
Left shift: Increased inflammatory process, cyto- • Stress • Drug-induced (bone mar-
numbers of immature toxic • Exercise/excitement row depression)
neutrophils/band cells.
• regenerative: < 10%
bands, neutrophilia,
absence of myelo-
cytes/metamyelo-
cytes
• degenerative: >10%
bands, depressed
total neutropenia,
presence of myelo-
cytes/metamyelo-
cytes (poor
prognostic indicator)
Right shift: Increased

number of hyperma-
ture (hyper-seg-
mented) neutrophils,
usually seen with non-
infectious inflammatory
process (e.g. malig-
nancy)
Eosinophils • Parasiticidal • Parasitic infection • Stress
• Cytotoxic • Allergic responses • Hyperadrenocorticism
• Phagocytic • Hypoadrenocorticism • ACTH therapy
Basophils • Initiate inflammation • Allergic reactions No known significance
• Prevent coagulation • Parasitic infection
• Activate lipoprotein lipase • Neoplasia

Table 4-2: Red Blood Cell Parameters and Associated Indications
Parameter Definition Diagnostic Consideration

Hematocrit (HCT) Percentage of total cellular constituents Anemia exists when the HCT falls below the
(primarily red blood cells) in a unit of reference range for the species.
whole blood Increase in red cell count or polycythemia is
most commonly the result of dehydration.
Hematocrit will normally have a value of
approximately three times (3X) the hemoglo-
bin value.
Hemoglobin (HGB) The oxygen-carrying component of red Hemoglobin normally falls in the range of one
blood cells; allows for the calculation of third (1/3) of the hematocrit value.
MCH and MCHC
RBC Indices
Anemia Characteriza-
tion
MCV Measure of the volume of an average • Increase: most commonly associated with
Mean Corpuscular RBC: reticulocytes/regenerative anemia
Hemoglobin • MCV = (HCT x 10) / RBC • Decrease: iron-deficiency anemia
MCH Calculated HGB concentration of an aver- • Increase: most commonly the result of
Mean Corpuscular age RBC hemolysis
Hemoglobin • MCH = (HGB x 10) / RBC (in pico- • Decrease: hypochromasia common in iron-
grams) deficiency anemia and reticulocytosis
MCHC Calculated HGB concentration in an aver- • Increase: most commonly the result of
Mean Corpuscular age RBC hemolysis
Hemoglobin • MCHC = MCH / MCV (in grams of • Decrease: hypochromasia common in iron-
Concentration HGB per 100 ml RBCs) deficiency anemia and reticulocytosis
RDW Measure of red blood cell anisocytosis • Increase: indicates increased production of
Red Cell Distribution (cell size variation) large immature cells. RDW increases even
Width before the MCV exceeds the normal range:
early indicator of regenerative anemia.
RDW also increases with the production of
small RBCs in iron-deficiency anemia.
Table 4-3: Platelet Parameters and Associated Indications
Parameter Increase in Disease State Decrease in Disease State

Total Platelet Count Thrombocytosis is present with excess • Disseminated intravascular coagulation
bleeding, iron deficiency anemia and • Bone marrow depression
myeloproliferative syndromes. • Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
• Severe hemorrhage
MPV Indirect evidence of increased (bone mar- Not an accurate predictor of decreased mega-
Mean Platelet Volume row) megakaryocyte response. karyocyte response.
PCT Volume of platelets expressed as a per- Volume of platelets expressed as a percent-
Platelet Hematocrit centage of whole blood (used as a age of whole blood (used as a research tool).
research tool).
PDW Increased measure of platelet anisocyto- No known clinical significance.
Platelet Distribution sis (platelet size variation) indicative of
Width active platelet release.

Section 5 Calibration and
Quality Control
This section describes the calibration and quality control procedures for
the VetScan HM2.
Section Contents
5.1 Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

5.1.1 When to Calibrate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.1.2 Required Calibration Materials and Handling . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.1.3 Calibration Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5.1.4 Viewing Calibration History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
5.2 Performing Quality Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
5.2.1 Required Quality Control Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
5.2.2 Quality Control Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
5.2.3 Monitoring Quality Control Values Over Time . . . . . . . . 5-8
5.2.4 Viewing the Accepted QC Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Calibration and Quality Control 5-1

5.1 Calibration
5.1.1 When to Calibrate
The HM2 is factory-calibrated for optimal performance. In the following situations, a fine-tuning
calibration can be done (using three measures of calibrator material):
■ on initial installation
■ when quality control measurements show a systematic error (bias — the curve is shifted
upward or downward) or are repeatedly outside predefined limits
■ after service that replaces any component related to the process of dilution or measure-
ment
■ after relocating the instrument
■ after software upgrades (as directed by Abaxis)
■ before using prediluted mode
5.1.2 Required Calibration Materials and Handling

The calibration procedure requires the Hematology Calibrator, Abaxis Part No. 700-9005.
WARNING: THE CALIBRATION PROCEDURE REQUIRES A SPECIAL CALI-

BRATOR THAT IS DERIVED FROM HUMAN SOURCES.
OBSERVE UNIVERSAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN HAN-
DLING THE CALIBRATOR SAMPLE.
5-2 Calibration and Quality Control

5.1.3 Calibration Procedure
WARNING: IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT LATEX GLOVES BE

WORN DURING THIS PROCEDURE.
Note: Make sure to bring the calibrator up to room temperature

before beginning this procedure.
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Calibration.

2. Select Run Calibrator.
3. Select the calibrator: Whole blood or Predi-

luted blood (1:5).
Select Prediluted blood (1:5) only if you are

using prediluted mode.
4. Enter the assay values for each parameter from

the calibrator package insert.
Use the PGUP and PGDN soft keys to move

between pages.
5. When all parameters are set, press the ACCEPT
soft key.

Note: Needle height must be at
–2 mm. To adjust,
press MENU , select
3: Needle Height,
press OK repeatedly
until needle height
= –2 mm, then
press ACCEPT .
The display shows 1/3 Calib

at top center, and Calib at
top right.
6. Mix the calibrator by gently inverting the tube between thumb and forefinger 10 to 15
times. Remove the tube cap.
7. Place the calibrator into the control tube adapter.
8. Press the Start button .
9. When analysis is complete and the display
shows the results, press ACCEPT .
The display then shows 2/3 Calib at the top.
10. Remove the tube from the adapter, and mix by gently inverting the tube between thumb
and forefinger 10 to 15 times.
11. Replace the tube in the adapter, and press the Start button.

12. When the second analysis is complete and the
results are displayed, press ACCEPT .
The display then shows 3/3 Calib at top.
13. Remove the tube from the adapter, and mix by gently inverting the tube between thumb
and forefinger 10 to 15 times.
14. Replace the tube in the adapter, and press Start.
15. When the third analysis is complete, press
ACCEPT .
The new calibration factors are then displayed.
Use the NEXT and PREV soft keys to move

between pages.

16. Press ACCEPT to accept the new calibration factors. The instrument is now calibrated.
17. Press EXIT .
Note: To complete the calibration, you need to press the ACCEPT

soft key after each calibration measurement. When all three
measurements are accepted, the instrument then calculates
and displays the new calibration factors. Do not change
any of these displayed calibration factors.
If the message “1 or more of your factors are out of range”

appears, call Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer
and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
5.1.4 Viewing Calibration History

All calibration times and the settings used are logged and
saved, and can be viewed as follows:
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Cali-

bration.
2. Select View Calibration History.
5.2 Performing Quality Control

The HM2 is pre-programmed to monitor three different quality control (QC) types: Dog, Cat, and
Human. You should perform QC determinations regularly to verify continued optimal perfor-
mance.
We recommend testing control material (dog control or cat control) each time the reagent pack is
changed, or otherwise approximately once per month. Also, perform a quality control measure
after each service. The analyzer stores all accepted QC results in an internal database.
5.2.1 Required Quality Control Materials

The quality control procedure requires the following materials:
■ Dog Control, Abaxis Part No. 700-9003

■ Cat Control, Abaxis Part No. 700-9004
■ Human Calibrator, Abaxis Part No. 700-9005

5.2.2 Quality Control Procedure
Note: Before performing this procedure, be sure to bring the qual-

ity control materials up to room temperature.
Perform a quality control (QC) check as follows.
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Quality control.

2. Select Select QC type, then select the QC
material you want to use: Dog, Cat, or Human.
3. Select Set QC reference ranges.
4. From the package insert, enter the lot no., exp.

date, and assay and gap values for each test
parameter.
■ To disable QC of a parameter, set that
parameter to 0.0.
■ Use the and PGUP soft keys to
PGDN
view and enter additional parameters.

5. Press ACCEPT to accept the data, then press ACCEPT again to confirm.
6. Mix the control vial by gently inverting the tube between thumb and forefinger 10 to 15
times, and remove its cap.
7. Put the control vial onto the control vial adapter on the sample rotor.

8. Select Run QC to start the analysis.
Press the Start button .
The results screen displays Quality Control

as ID.
9. Press ACCEPT to accept the results and save them
in the QC database.
Note: Any values that are out of range are highlighted.
If you don't accept the QC results, they will not be saved in

the instrument’s database.
10. Abaxis strongly recommends performing three successful QC runs after calibrat-
ing the instrument.
5.2.3 Monitoring Quality Control Values Over Time

Many laboratories monitor the recovery values of quality control material over time to identify
trends and potential performance drift. The HM2 allows you to do this easily using a database table
and in graphic form.
5.2.4 Viewing the Accepted QC Database

You can view all of the accepted QC results from the instrument’s database in table or graphic
(Levy-Jennings) form. The QC measurement results are assigned sequential ID numbers.
1. Press the Utilities key , then select Quality control.

2. Select View table of QC measures.
■ Use the and keys to select entries,
and the and keys to move among
parameters.
■ To print a selected QC result, press
GRAPH , then press the Print key .

Section 6 Managing the Database
This section describes how to use the analyzer’s database.
Section Contents
6.1 Database Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

6.2 Database Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
6.3 Navigating the Database System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Managing the Database 6-1

6.1 Database Overview
The analyzer can store up to 1,000 complete test results in its internal database. Results are stored
chronologically by date and time. (When more than 1,000 measurements are stored, the most
recent file replaces the oldest file.) You can retrieve these results anytime.
6.2 Database Table

To access the Database table, press the Database key on the front panel.
The first screen shows a table of the most recently saved
tests, as shown at right.
You can view the results in this screen as follows:

■ Use the and keys to view results that extend past the edge of the screen. Each test
result includes the following:
❑ Sample ID ❑ Warnings (if any) ❑ Mode
❑ Date ❑ Name ❑ Doctor
❑ Patient ID ❑ Age ❑ Lyse
❑ 18 CBC parameters ❑ Sex ❑ Clogging report
■ Use the and keys to move through individual results.

■ Select the highlighted patient results by pressing the OK key on the keypad. (The check
box next to the patient name is then filled.)
❑ To display the WBC, RBC, and PLT histograms, press the histogram GRAPH soft key.
❑ To view the second panel, containing PLT results, press the NEXT soft key.
❑ To view sample information, press PT.ID .
❑ To view the results in table format, press TABLE to return to the previous screen.
❑ To go to the Local Menu, press MENU .
■ Print selected patient results by pressing the Print key. The screen then displays:
❑ Print as table — select this to print the selected results in table format.
❑ Print result by result — select this to print each result with its sample information,
CBC values, and histograms.
To print an individual result, highlight the result, press GRAPH , then press Print .
6-2 Managing the Database

6.3 Navigating the Database System
Use the Database local menu to access and manage the records stored in the analyzer’s database.
From the Database table screen, enter the Database local

menu by pressing the MENU key.
The menu contains the following items:
■ Go to specified record: Jumps to a particular

sample record. Enter the date and time, sample
ID, and patient ID of the sample you want to
view, and press the ACCEPT key. The first sample
meeting your parameters is then displayed. If
Patient ID is blank (0), records are searched by
date/time only.
■ Selection: Selects all records in memory, or all
those with a specific date, time, and ID. Select
by date, time and ID selects a range of records
by date, time, and/or ID number. Select all
selects all records, and Deselect all deselects all
records. Entering 0 as an ID searches by date
only. Corresponding results are marked with a
filled box.
■ Change sort order: Changes the order in
which results are displayed: Unsorted, Sort by
time, Sort by sample ID, or Sort by patient
ID.
Managing the Database 6-3

■ Manage selected records: Enables you to
Send selected records to a PC, Delete selected
records, or Backup selected records to a USB
flash drive. (Before selecting Backup selected
records, insert a USB flash drive into a USB
port on the analyzer.)
■ View external: Views previously saved data from a USB flash drive inserted into a USB
port on the analyzer.
■ Backup one day: Backs up all records from a
specified day to a USB flash drive.
1. Select the date to back up, and confirm by

pressing the ACCEPT soft key.
2. Insert a flash drive into a USB port on the

analyzer, then press ACCEPT .
The records are then copied to the flash

drive.
6-4 Managing the Database

Section 7 Maintenance & Service
This section details maintenance and service procedures for the analyzer.
Section Contents
7.1 Periodic Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

7.1.1 Daily Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
7.1.2 Weekly Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
7.1.3 Monthly Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
7.2 Cleaning the Aperture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
7.3 Bleach-Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
7.4 Shut-Down Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7
7.5 Changing the Reagent Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
7.6 Running the Self Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
7.7 Replacing the Peristaltic Pump Tube Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
Maintenance & Service 7-1

7.1 Periodic Maintenance
Performing the simple and easy maintenance procedures in this section will help keep your ana-
lyzer in optimal operating condition, thus ensuring peak performance, high-quality results, and a
good return on your investment.
Note: Pay particular attention to the weekly maintenance.
7.1.1 Daily Maintenance

The analyzer’s automatic standby mode is designed to keep the system’s internal workings in opti-
mal condition, and so reduces the amount of maintenance needed.
■ Always keep the analyzer and its immediate surroundings as clean as possible to prevent
debris from getting into the system.
■ Check all reagent lines for kinks, pinches, abnormalities, and leaks or spills.
■ Clean up any standing fluid near the analyzer.
■ Wipe up any spills on the sample rotor.
7.1.2 Weekly Maintenance

Perform the following tasks once a week.
Clean the Wash Head

The wash head cleans the outer surface of the sample needle with a saline diluent. Salt can build up
around the wash head if it is not cleaned regularly. As a reminder, once a week the analyzer dis-
plays this message on the bottom of its screensaver:
“It is time to clean the needle wash head. Go to , Maintenance, Cleaning for
instructions.”
When this message appears, follow the instructions below to clean the wash head and prevent salt
accumulation. The process takes only a few seconds to complete.
CAUTION: Do not touch any components inside the instrument except as spe-
cifically directed.
7-2 Maintenance & Service

1. Press the Utilities key , then select Maintenance.
2. Select Clean the wash head.
3. Open the door on the right side of the instrument.
The wash head’s location is shown at right.
4. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and warm tap water to gently rub
the lower surface of the wash head to remove any salt build-
up.
5. When finished, close the side door, then press the ACCEPT soft key.
Once this procedure is complete, the screensaver reminder will disappear, and will reappear
in one week.

7.1.3 Monthly Preventive Maintenance
Once a month, clean the analyzer as follows.
1. Turn off and (if possible) unplug the analyzer.

2. Use a slightly damp cloth to clean the analyzer’s cover, front panel, and sampling rotor.
3. Open the side and rear doors, and clean the internal metal chassis underlay if necessary.
CAUTION: Do not use chemical cleaners such as bleach, and do not use an
excessively wet cloth. Water can cause the instrument’s electronics
to malfunction. Avoid touching internal components.
4. Clean the entire pneumatic system (tubes, valves, chamber, and aperture) with a “Prime
all” cycle:
b. Select Priming.
c. Select Prime all.
The analyzer then performs its priming process, including cleaning.
Note: Step 4 can be skipped if the reagent pack is changed monthly

and the instrument is shut down weekly.

7.2 Cleaning the Aperture
The analyzer automatically performs a three-step cleaning process after each analysis. In addition,
the analyzer provides a software-driven process that you can use to clear the measuring aperture of
any debris when needed (such as when directed to perform as a part of troubleshooting).
1. Press the Utilities key , select Mainte-

nance, then select Cleaning.
2. Select Automatic self-cleaning.

The analyzer then performs its cleaning process,
and returns to the Maintenance menu when fin-
ished.
7.3 Bleach-Cleaning
Use this procedure to bleach-clean the analyzer’s internal tubing each time you change the reagent
pack. You will need the following materials:
■ cleaning tube kit (shown on page 2-10)
■ household-strength chlorine bleach — at least 5 ml
■ distilled water — at least 195 ml
Run the bleach-cleaning process as follows:
1. Prepare a 5% bleach solution using 5 ml of bleach and 95 ml of distilled water.

In addition to the bleach solution, you will need at least 100 ml of distilled water for
rinsing.

2. Press the Utilities key , then select
Maintenance.
3. Select Bleaching.
4. When asked to confirm, press ACCEPT .

5. When prompted, disconnect the reagent tubing from the reagent inlets (diluent, lyse,
cleaner, and rinse) on the back of the analyzer, but leave the waste tubing connected.
6. Press ACCEPT to continue.
Note: If you do not have the cleaning tubing, leave the reagent
lines connected to the analyzer, and instead disconnect the
rinse, lyse, diluent, and cleaner bottle caps, and submerge
all four lines into the bleach solution — see step 8.
7. When prompted, connect the cleaning tube kit to the

reagent inputs as shown.

8. Submerge the free end of the cleaning tube in the
bleach solution.

10. When prompted, disconnect the cleaning tube (leaving the waste tubing connected), then
press ACCEPT .
11. When prompted, connect the cleaning tube kit to the reagent inputs as shown in step 7,
and submerge the free end of the cleaning tube in a container of at least 100 ml of dis-
tilled water, as shown in step 8.
13. When prompted, disconnect the cleaning tube (leaving the waste tubing connected), then
press ACCEPT .
14. When prompted, select from the following options as needed:
■ To install a new reagent pack, press NEW .
■ To reconnect the old reagents, press OLD .
■ To turn off the analyzer, press STOP .
7.4 Shut-Down Procedures

Note: Proper use of the analyzer’s shut-down procedure is critical
for maintaining the instrument in good working condition.
If you will not use the instrument for more than 72 hours, shut it down as described in “Turning the
Analyzer Off” on page 2-27.

7.5 Changing the Reagent Pack
Follow this procedure to change the reagent pack.
1. Disconnect the reagent tubing from the reagent inlets (diluent, lyse, cleaner, and rinse)
on the back of the analyzer, but leave the waste tubing connected.
2. Perform a bleach cleaning — see “Bleach-Cleaning” on page 7-5.
3. Reconnect the reagent tubing to the inlets on the back of the analyzer.
4. Remove the caps (with tubing still attached) from the old reagent pack (including the
waste container).
5. Connect a new reagent pack, using the same tubing and reagent cap connectors.
6. Re-cap the used reagents with their original caps, and dispose of them in an environmen-
tally appropriate manner.
7. Prime all reagent lines:
b. Select Priming, then select Prime All.
8. Reset the reagent status:

b. Select Reagent Status.

c. Press the CHANGE soft key, then press
ACCEPT to confirm.
The analyzer updates the installation

date, reagent lifetime, and the amount of
reagent in each container.
d. Press EXIT when finished.
Note: If you selected NEW at the last step of the bleach-cleaning,

the reagent status will be automatically reset for a new pack
(100% for each reagent).
9. If you place the new reagent pack in a different location relative to the instrument (com-
pared to the old pack), recalibrate the fluid sensors to obtain the maximum number of
tests per pack. (Calibration is not necessary if the new pack is placed in the same loca-
tion as the old one.)
If needed, calibrate the fluid sensors — see “Fluid Sensor Settings” on page 3-13.
10. Run a quality control procedure using a dog or cat sample — see “Performing Quality
Control” on page 5-6.

7.6 Running the Self Test
The analyzer includes an automated Self test that verifies proper operation of essential components
of the instrument. Run the Self test at these times:
■ at installation
■ after replacing any component
■ after any extended time out of use
■ if you suspect the analyzer is not working properly
1. Press the Utilities key , and select Diagnostics.

2. Select Self test. The analyzer then lists and checks off subsystems as it tests each.
3. When the test is finished, the analyzer displays
a summary of the results.
Press PGDN and PGUP to move through the

pages and view details.
Note: If the Overall result displayed is Errors, call Abaxis Techni-

cal Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on
page 1-2.

7.7 Replacing the Peristaltic Pump Tube
Assembly
The analyzer’s peristaltic pump is designed to be maintenance-free. However, after extended, long-
term use (normally longer than a year), the pump tubing may eventually need to be replaced. The
analyzer includes a spare peristaltic pump tube set, with two plastic connectors and two metal
spring clips.
Though replacement is a simple process, Abaxis strongly recommends that you call Abaxis Tech-
nical Support before beginning, so that they can verify the need for pump tube replacement and
guide you through the process if necessary. See “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
Replace the peristaltic pump tube assembly as follows.
WARNING: MAKE SURE THE INSTRUMENT IS POWERED OFF BEFORE YOU

BEGIN THIS PROCEDURE.
Note: Wear gloves while performing this procedure.
Keep paper towels on hand in case any liquid spills from the
tubes.
1. Open the analyzer’s rear door, and locate the peristal-

tic pump at the lower left of the rear compartment.
Disconnect the color-coded tubes attached to the base
of the pump housing, as shown.
2. Locate the locking mechanism on the underside of the

pump housing. Use the middle finger and thumb of
your right hand (as shown) to twist the fixing lock at
the base of the pump counterclockwise to loosen the
tube case.
turn counterclockwise

3. Lift the pump tube case upward and remove it.
4. Remove the tubing from inside the case and replace

it with the new tubing provided.
Make sure the two plastic connectors at the ends

of the tubing are properly placed into the slots of
the tube case, and that the metal clips face
inward. Otherwise, the tube case cannot be
installed properly.
5. Fit the tube case back onto the pump housing from
the top, and firmly press both sides of the case.
6. Twist the fixing lock at the base of the pump clock-
wise until it clicks. The pump tube is then properly
installed.
Make sure the tubing case fits properly and tightly
in the correct position.
7. Reconnect the color-coded tubes to their proper

connectors: white to white, green to green.
8. Wipe up any spilled fluids from the base of the instrument. Close the rear door.

Section 8 Special Functions
This section describes special functions you can use in operating the
instrument.
Section Contents
8.1 Viewing the Software Version . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2

8.2 Viewing Status Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2
8.3 Updating the Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
8.4 Customizing the User-Defined Species Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
8.5 Customizing and Printing the Normal Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Special Functions 8-1

8.1 Viewing the Software Version
■ To view the software version number, press the
Utilities key , select Diagnostics, then
select Device information.
8.2 Viewing Status Information

■ To view device statistics — number of analyses
performed, clogs, and errors, and other infor-
mation that may be useful for technical service
— press the Utilities key , select Diagnos-
tics, then select Statistics.
■ To view the status of the reagent pack, press the

Utilities key , select Maintenance, then
select Reagent status.
Note: Do not press the CHANGE soft key unless you are changing
the reagent pack. Otherwise, the analyzer will not display
the true reagent status.
8-2 Special Functions

8.3 Updating the Software
From time to time, Abaxis will send you an updated version of the analyzer software on a USB
flash drive. Use the following procedure to install the update from the flash drive.
1. Press the Utilities key , and select Maintenance.
2. Select Software upgrade.
3. Insert the update flash drive into a USB port.

4. Follow the instructions on the screen to update the software.
5. Restart the analyzer by turning it off and then on again using the power switch on the
back of the instrument
The analyzer then automatically functions with the upgraded software version.
8.4 Customizing the User-Defined Species

Profile
The analyzer includes a User-Defined Species Profile that enables you to define your own species
for testing. This profile can only be activated by Abaxis Technical Support personnel.
If you need to create custom species, please contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer
and Technical Support” on page 1-2. They will guide you through activating the profile, and help
you to customize it to suit your requirements.
Special Functions 8-3

8.5 Customizing and Printing the Normal
Range
If you need to print out the normal range for particular species, do so as follows.
1. Press the Measurement/Analysis key , then press the PT.ID soft key.
2. Select the species you want, then press the ACCEPT key. The species you selected are
shown at the upper right corner of the next screen.
3. Press LIMITS . The normal ranges of the
selected species are then displayed.
4. Change any limits as needed, then press
ACCEPT .
5. Press the Print key .

The normal range of the selected species then
prints.
8-4 Special Functions

Section 9 Troubleshooting
Use the information in this section to help diagnose and solve problems
with the analyzer.
Section Contents
9.1 Warning Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.1.1 Blank Flags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.1.2 Measurement conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.1.3 Out-of-Range Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.1.4 Results Flags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.2 Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
9.3 Evaluating Unexpected Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
9.3.1 Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
9.4 Preparing the Analyzer for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10
Troubleshooting 9-1
9.1 Warning Indicators
This section lists warning indicators (flags) that can appear in test results, along with possible solu-
tions for each.
9.1.1 Blank Flags

If analysis errors occur or the blank measurement is too high,
an E error flag appears along with the affected parameter,
and “---” is displayed instead of results. In this situation, per-
form a cleaning — see “Cleaning the Aperture” on page 7-5.
If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support —
see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
9.1.2 Measurement conditions

Warning flags are grouped according to measurement conditions and problems with the sample.
■ c, C, q, and Q flags are related to aperture clogging. Perform three to five cleanings as
needed (see “Cleaning the Aperture” on page 7-5), and repeat the blank measurement
(see “Run a Blank Measurement” on page 4-5).
■ b, p, E, H, and B are generally due to reagent contamination or lack of sample. Check
the sample (needle height, etc.). If contamination is suspected, change the reagent pack
(see “Changing the Reagent Pack” on page 7-8).
■ m, M, and N are caused by too high a cell concentration. Perform an external 1:5 dilu-
tion and repeat the measurement (see “Using Prediluted Mode” on page 4-20). Run a
quality control procedure if needed (see “Performing Quality Control” on page 5-6).
An asterisk (*) near a parameter indicates uncertainty. A variety of causes are possible. If a result
warning flag is present, refer to Table 9-1 on page 9-3 for possible causes and solutions.
9.1.3 Out-of-Range Results

If a parameter is outside the normal reference range, it is flagged with “–” if below the normal
range, or “+” if above the normal range. Reference ranges can be edited and customized in the
Limits menu. A setting of 0 for a range limit results in no reference range flagging.
9.1.4 Results Flags

If a warning occurs, a “*” flag appears before the result. Specific warning flags are displayed on
the results screen, and are grouped according to measurement conditions and the problems relating
to the blood sample:
■ Uppercase warning flags (E, H, B, C, Q) are related to WBC or HGB measures.
■ Lowercase flags (p, b, c, q) are related to RBC or PLT measures.
9-2 Troubleshooting
The following table summarizes these flags.
Table 9-1: Result Warning Flags
Flag Meaning Description / Recommended action

E Empty sample. • Needle may not reach sample. Check needle height and
adjust to –2 mm if needed.
No WBC 3-part differential • May occur in pathological lymphocytosis. Review slide if
(unable to report a WBC dif- WBC count is outside normal limits.
ferential) • Possible lyse problem. Prime lyse and repeat the blank.
H HGB blank is high, or no HGB • Possible interference. Make sure the side door is closed, and
blank repeat the blank measurement.
• Possible bubbles in the WBC chamber. Check the connec-
tions of the reagent inputs and perform a cleaning. Repeat
the blank.
B WBC blank is high, or no • Check to see if wash head needs cleaning. If cleaning is
WBC blank needed, perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and repeat the blank
measurement.
• If the blank is too high, perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and
repeat the blank measurement.
• Possible lyse problem. Prime lyse and repeat the blank.
• Possible lyse contamination. Check lyse container and line
for contamination. Repeat the blank.
• Possible electrical noise interference. Be sure to use an unin-
terruptable power supply (UPS). Repeat the blank.
M, N Linearity error, or WBC coin- • The results are out of the linearity range. Make a dilution with
cidence is too high an external method to achieve 1:5 dilution rate, and run
again. (1:5 calibration should be current.)
• Prime lyse and repeat the blank.
C, Q WBC clogging • Aperture clogging. Perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and repeat
the measurement. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis
Technical Support — see page 1-2.
• Low-temperature reagents (mainly diluent) can cause this.
Be sure to allow reagents to reach room temperature.
p PLT blank is high, or no PLT • Check to see if wash head needs cleaning. If cleaning is
blank needed, perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and repeat the blank
measurement.
• Possible reagent contamination or system cleanliness prob-
lem. If the problem persists, change the reagent pack, per-
form a cleaning, and repeat. If the problem still remains,
contact Abaxis Technical Support — see page 1-2.
b RBC blank is high, or no RBC • Check to see if wash head needs cleaning. If cleaning is
blank needed, perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and repeat the blank
measurement.
• Possible reagent contamination or system cleanliness prob-
lem. If the problem persists, change the reagent pack, per-
form a cleaning, and repeat. If the problem still remains,
contact Abaxis Technical Support — see page 1-2.
m Linearity error, or RBC/PLT • Results are out of linearity range. contact Abaxis Technical
coincidence is too high Support — see page 1-2. Run a control cycle.
c RBC/PLT clogging • Low-temperature reagents (mainly diluent) can cause this.
Be sure to allow reagents to reach room temperature.
• Aperture clogging. Run cleaning and repeat the measure-
ment. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Sup-
port — see page 1-2.
Troubleshooting 9-3
9.2 Error Messages
Below are a few very common error messages and solutions to the errors.
■ Error message: “Out of diluent, lyse, cleaner, or rinse”

Solutions:
❑ Visually check the reagent containers for reagent. If needed, change the reagent pack
— see “Changing the Reagent Pack” on page 7-8.
❑ Check for bubbles in the reagent tubing. If bubbles are present, check the connec-
tions at the back of the instrument, at the top of the corresponding reagent container,
and under the container cap to make sure they are tight.
❑ Make sure the reagent sensor is on — if it is not, there will be an “S” in the top left
corner of the display. In this case, calibrate the fluid sensor — see “Fluid Sensor Set-
■ Error message: “Pressure or vacuum error”

Solutions:
❑ Check for loose, detached, or kinked tubing inside and outside the instrument. Make
sure there are no leaks.
❑ Check the tubing inside the instrument for clots.
❑ Check for bubbles in the reagent tubing. If bubbles are present, check the connec-
tions at the back of the instrument, at the top of the corresponding reagent container,
and under the container cap to make sure they are tight.
❑ Visually check the reagent containers for reagent. If needed, change the reagent
pack— see “Changing the Reagent Pack” on page 7-8.
9-4 Troubleshooting
9.3 Evaluating Unexpected Results
This section presents several histograms demonstrating unexpected results. These examples will
assist you in identifying various cell populations, their position, and their ratio as indicated by their
respective histograms.
The figure at right shows a “full-spectrum” histogram. Discriminators
The first two discriminators in this example show a clean val- 1 2 3 4
ley between 29 and 34, which is ideal. The first discriminator

indicates the end of the platelet population (and is not nor-
mally displayed in the PLT histogram), and the second indi-
cates the start of the WBC category. High peaks or lack of a
“valley” here indicate one or more of the following:
■ existence of nucleated RBCs or reticulocytes
■ existence of resistive RBCs (bigger pieces of hemolysed RBCs in WBC solution)
■ contaminated reagents, or other interference such as electrical noise, etc.
Note that this illustration shows a “full-spectrum” histogram (2–400 fl) following the RBC lysing
process, whereby the entire RBC population is ideally lysed for accurate counting of white blood
cells and platelets.
In the above histogram, the third and fourth discriminators establish the WBC differential:
■ The area (cells) between the second and third discriminators is classified as lympho-
cytes.
■ The area between the third and fourth discriminators is classified as monocytes.
■ The area to the right of the fourth discriminator is classified as granulocytes.
Troubleshooting 9-5
9.3.1 Examples
1 — High Blank, Flag p

The blank measurement shown below indicates a high PLT background, most likely due to a con-
taminated system. Blank is optimal if PLT < 26.
any cells in this area may reflect

the presence of aggregated/giant
platelets, nRBCs, retics, etc.
Evaluation
The above histograms indicate the following (see the arrows):
■ WBC — normal: shows no traces of particles
■ RBC — shows some background “noise”
■ PLT — shows a p flag, indicating background “noise” (such as chamber contamination)
Solution
1. Perform three to five cleanings as needed — see “Cleaning the Aperture” on page 7-5.
2. Repeat the blank measurement — see “Run a Blank Measurement” on page 4-5.
3. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Techni-
cal Support” on page 1-2.
9-6 Troubleshooting
2 — No results due to having accepted a high blank — flags p, b, and B
A report similar to that shown below results from measuring a sample without first generating an
acceptable blank. The p (high PLT), b (high RBC), and B (high WBC) flags show that the previous
blank measurement had high background values. Although histograms are shown, the values are
not reported (see the arrows in the values listing).
Evaluation
The above histograms indicate the following (see the arrows):
■ WBC — B flag, high WBC background
■ RBC — b flag, high RBC background
■ PLT — p flag, high WBC background
Solution
2. Repeat the blank measurement — see “Run a Blank Measurement” on page 4-5.
3. Repeat the sample run after obtaining an acceptable blank.
Troubleshooting 9-7
3 — WBC clogging, flag C
In cases of aperture clogging, the histogram represents apparent large cells, since clogging results
in a smaller effective aperture, which makes the particles passing through appear relatively larger.
The histograms are drawn, but WBC results are not available.
Note: In cases of RBC clogging, MCV (and consequently HCT)

are artificially larger.
Evaluation
The above histograms indicate the following (see the arrows and highlight):
■ WBC — flag C shows WBC aperture clogging
■ HGB — the result is unbelievably high (resulting in erroneous MCH/MCHC results)
■ RBC — normal
■ PLT — normal
Solution
2. Repeat the measurement.
9-8 Troubleshooting
4 — WBC non-linear, flag M
This particular sample shows a typical lymphocytosis (WBC count beyond linearity limits).
Evaluation
The above histograms indicate the following (see the arrow and highlight):
■ WBC — WBC is very high, indicating leukocytosis. Flag M means that the WBC
results are out of the linearity range. The absolute and percentage values are marked
with asterisks (*), due to overlapping cell populations (cell discriminators may not be
accurate).
■ RBC — normal
■ PLT — normal
Solution
Contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-2.
Troubleshooting 9-9
9.4 Preparing the Analyzer for Shipment
If Abaxis Technical Support determines that your instrument needs to be sent in for service, Abaxis
will send you a loaner unit for use in the meanwhile. After you receive the loaner unit, prepare your
analyzer for shipping as follows.
1. Switch off the instrument as described on page 2-28.

2. Remove the waste connector from the instrument.
3. Put the cap on each reagent intake valve on the instrument to prevent reagent solutions
from leaking out.
4. Remove the sample adapter from the sample rotor.
5. Unplug the external power supply, printer cable, and mini-keyboard from the instrument.
6. Open the instrument side door. Wipe up any liquid left inside the instrument.
7. Insert the foam piece in the position
shown to prevent sample needles from
sliding.
8. If you received a loaner instrument,
transfer the tape from the loaner instru-
ment's counting chamber onto the top of
your instrument’s counting chamber to
protect it from dust.
If you did not receive a loaner instru-
ment, proceed to the next step.
CAUTION: DO NOT use any other type of tape, as the tape’s adhesive may
damage the counting chamber.
9. Close the side door. Wipe up any liquid left outside of the instrument.
10. Place the analyzer into its original plastic bag and place it inside its shipping box. Make
sure that the forms and instrument fit perfectly inside of the box.
11. Place the power supply and power cord properly into the shipping box.
12. Close the box and seal the box using a strong tape.
The instrument is now ready for shipping.
9-10 Troubleshooting
Section 10 Specifications
This appendix contains technical specifications for the HM2 system, and
lists its linearity ranges.
Section Contents
10.1 VetScan HM2 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2

10.2 Linearity Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Specifications 10-1
10.1 VetScan HM2 Specifications
Sample volume 25 µl whole blood (50 µl in prediluted mode)
Aperture diameter 80 µm
Throughput Approximately 25 tests/hour
Accuracy Carry-over
Characteristics (max. deviance Reproducibility between
from expected) (CV) samples Test range
WBC 3% < 3% < 1% 4.0–20.0
RBC 3% < 3% < 1% 4.00–15.00
HCT 3% < 3% < 1% 25.0–50.0
MCV 2% < 1% N/A 50–90
HGB 2% < 2% < 1% 9–16
PLT 4% < 4% < 3% 200–900
HCT 3% < 3% < 1% 25.0–50.0
Sampling method Open tube system with automatic sample rotor
Clog prevention High-voltage pulse and chemical cleaning of the aperture in each analysis
cycle
Cleaning procedure High-voltage burst of the aperture, high-pressure back-flush, chemical
cleaning of the aperture
Quality control 3 QC options. QC parameters include: mean, ± range, SD and CV for all
measured and calculated parameters, 16- and 64-day Levy-Jennings
charts, separate QC database
Calibration Automatic based on 3 measurements (default method). Predilution
method must be calibrated independently.
Multi user feature Three-level Multi user operation with selective privilege levels, user identi-
fication with ID and password
User interface Easy-to-use, menu-driven user interface with 6 hard-function buttons,
graphic icons, and on-screen help
Languages available English. For other languages, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see
page 1-2.
Data capacity 1000 results, including histograms on-board. Data can be saved to USB
flash drive or downloaded to computer.
Host computer interface Serial (RS-232) computer link and USB
Data back-up method USB flash drive
Software upgrade method USB flash drive
External printer interface USB
Display 240x128-dot, high-contrast, CCFL, backlit, graphics liquid crystal diode
Keypad 24 foil keys + START button
External keyboard Standard PS/2 or USB-compatible keyboard
Power supply External 12 VDC, 8 A power module
Power supply (input) 100/240 V, 50–60 Hz, 10 W stand by, 80 W operating
Operating temperature 59–86 °F (15–30 °C). Optimal temperature is 77 °F (25 °C).
Dimensions (W x D x H) 12.6 x 10.2 x 14.4 in (320 x 260 x 365 mm)
Net weight 26.4 lbs (12 kg)
10-2 Specifications
10.2 Linearity Ranges
The HM2 is guaranteed to provide specified accuracies within its linearity range. Beyond this
range, results may still be displayed, but accuracy is no longer guaranteed.
If the value is over the maximum range of guaranteed linearity, the instrument cannot measure it,
and the result will be marked with an E, m, M, or N flag.
To measure a sample whose parameters exceed the maximum linear value indicated in the table
below, predilution is recommended — see “Using Prediluted Mode” on page 4-20.
The following tables list the linearity ranges for primary parameters in normal measuring mode
and prediluted mode.
Table 10-1: Linearity Ranges in Normal Measuring Mode
Parameter Linearity Ranges Maximum Unit

WBC 0–100 150 109 cells/liter
RBC 0–15 20 1012 cells/liter
PLT 0–700 1000 109 cells/liter
HGB 0–250 400 g/l
HCT 0–100 — %
MCV 30...150 — Fl
MPV 3...30 — Fl
Table 10-2: Linearity Ranges for Prediluted Mode
Parameter Linearity Ranges Maximum Unit

WBC 2–200 300 109 cells/liter
RBC 1–30 40 1012 cells/liter
PLT 100–2000 3000 109 cells/liter
Specifications 10-3
10-4 Specifications
Appendix A Introduction to
Veterinary Hematology
This section introduces several fundamental concepts of veterinary hema-
tology. Having a basic knowledge of these concepts will help you better
understand the results from the analyzer.
Appendix Contents
A.1 Function of Blood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-2

A.2 Composition of Blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3
A.3 Blood Cell Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
A.3.1 Red Blood Cells, Hemoglobin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-4
A.3.2 White Blood Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5
A.3.3 Automated WBC Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5
A.3.4 Platelets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-6
A.4 Normal Hematology Ranges (Dog, Cat, Horse, and Others) . A-7
A.5 Veterinary Hematology References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-8
Introduction to Veterinary Hematology A-1

A.1 Function of Blood
Blood circulates in the body and acts as a transport medium that carries oxygen, essential nutrients,
and other materials to the cells of the body. It also serves to transport waste products for disposal.
Neurons, muscle cells, connective tissue cells, and epithelial cells draw their nourishment from
interstitial spaces, and respond to the glucose and oxygen content of that environment. Fresh sup-
plies of oxygen and glucose are exchanged with the blood circulating in the capillaries. Blood
receives its oxygen from lungs and glucose from the intestines and liver.
Normal cell function depends on the rapid removal of toxic metabolic products (CO2 and NH3)
from the interstitial fluid environment. These waste products are taken up by the plasma and red
blood cells, and eliminated as the blood passes through the kidneys and lungs. Blood also delivers
hormones, lipids, amino acids, salts, and vitamins, and removes urea and conjugated acids.
Blood distributes the heat generated by metabolizing body cells, so that body temperature is main-
tained at a constant level. In the event of vascular injury, blood platelets and plasma coagulation
mechanisms prevent blood loss by aggregating with other platelets to form large hemostatic plugs
(clots).
White blood cells protect against infections by identifying and killing invasive bacteria.
The number, size and distribution of blood cells provide important information for clinical diagno-
sis and therapy. The aim of hematology is to collect this information.
A-2 Introduction to Veterinary Hematology

A.2 Composition of Blood
Whole blood contains three cellular components:
■ Red blood cells (erythrocytes, RBC)
■ White blood cells (leukocytes, WBC)
■ Platelets (thrombocytes, PLT)
Table A-1: Cell Composition of Whole Blood*

Red Blood Cells White Blood Cells Platelets
12 9
Normal density 5–12 x 10 cells/l 6–15 x 10 cells/l 100–700 x109 cells/l
Nucleated? No ** Yes No
GRAnulocytes: 65%
RBC: 99.9% NEUtrophil: 60%
Sub-populations
EOSinophil: 4%
and their per-
NRBC ** BASophil: 1%
centages
(Nucleated RBC) 0.1% LYMphocytes: 32%
MONocytes: 3%
Biconcave (donut) shape GRAnulocytes: 13–16 µm Fragments with a
Shape, size diameter: 5–7 µm LYMphocytes: 8–15 µm diameter of 2-4 µm
thickness: 1.8–2 µm MONocytes: 15–25 µm
Volume of cell 30–80 fl 50–1500 fl 5–15 fl
Volumetric% in 40–45% 0.1% 0.3%
whole blood
* Data generated using whole human blood.
**Mature mammalian RBCs are non-nucleated.

A.3 Blood Cell Parameters
A.3.1 Red Blood Cells, Hemoglobin

Red blood cells — RBC — are formed in the bone marrow. A mature human red blood cell is non-
nucleated, and has a mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of approx. 70 fl. RBCs are the most numer-
ous cell type in blood. There are approximately 5–10 x 1012 cells/l in the blood of a healthy dog.
RBC and MCV are directly measured primary parameters.
Hematocrit — HCT — is the proportion of RBCs to plasma (liquid portion) in blood. HCT is the
most accurate and simplest way to measure the degree of anemia, and is calculated from the RBC
and MCV values:
HCTpercent = RBC x MCV / 10

HCTabsolute = HCTpercent / 10
Typically, HCT = 0.45 = 45%
Red Blood Cell Distribution Width — RDW — is a

measure of RBC anisocytosis, the degree of cell size
variation. In a healthy sample, RBCs demonstrate a
normal (Gaussian) distribution (bell curve), as shown
at right. RDW can be characterized by a standard
deviation (RDW-SD) or a coefficient of variation (fl)
(RDW-CV) represented as a percentage.
Hemoglobin — HGB — is the main component of RBCs. It is a conjugated protein (with Fe), and
its main function is to transport oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide from the tis-
sues back to the lungs. Normal HGB concentration of samples is approximately 14 g/dl or 140 g/l
or 87 mmol/l.
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin — MCH — is the average hemoglobin content of RBCs, and is
calculated from RBC and HGB values:
MCH = HGB / RBC x 10, reported in picograms or fmol
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration — MCHC — is the concentration of HGB in an

average RBC, calculated from the HGB and HCT values:
MCHC = HGB / HCTabsolute , reported in g/dl, g/l or mmol/l

A.3.2 White Blood Cells
White Blood Cells — WBC — are formed in the bone marrow. During their maturation sequence
they differentiate from the parent cell into five sub-populations. WBCs are nucleated and classified
as granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils), lymphocytes, and monocytes. WBCs are
equipped with all cell organelles necessary to perform vital protective functions in the body.
The normal WBC is in the range of 7 x 109 cells/l, a fraction of the RBC population. In pathologi-
cal conditions, the WBC count can increase dramatically (up to 300 x 109 cells/l in extreme leuke-
mia). In these cases, predilution of the sample is recommended for the most accurate results (see
“Diluting Whole Blood” on page B-3).
Three-part differential histograms (volume distribution curves) of WBCs can be used as a simple,
visual evaluation of the number and relative percentage of lymphocytes (LYM, LYM%), mono-
cytes (MON, MON%), and granulocytes (GRA, GRA%).
WBC-related parameters are defined as follows:
WBC = LYM + MON + GRA
LYM% = LYM / WBC
MON% = MON / WBC
GRA% = GRA / WBC
A.3.3 Automated WBC Classification

The analyzer evaluates each sample as a unique population, using dynamic cellular discriminators
to assess the cellular distribution most accurately. To determine WBC sub-populations, the ana-
lyzer first sets “discriminator 1” at the limit of hemolysed RBCs + PLTs (on the left) and LYM
population, then fits normal distribution curves to the remaining WBC histogram (shown below in
different shades of grey).
Discriminators:
1. 2.3.
GRA population
RBC/PLT
region
LYM population MID population

Eosinophilia is often depicted as a peak between the MON and GRA classifications.
As with any automated system, good laboratory practice requires that all abnormal results be veri-
fied by slide (blood smear) review.
A.3.4 Platelets
Platelets — PLT — are non-nucleated fragments of the megakaryocyte. Note that platelets are
formed by cellular fragmentation and not by a so-called maturation sequence. Therefore, the plate-
let histogram normally has a logarithmic shape on the left side, and a normal shape on the right
side (“log-normal” distribution).
Normal PLT concentrations range from 200–800 x 109 cells/l (for dogs), depending on the mean
platelet volume (MPV), but can vary from 0–1000x109 cells/l under certain circumstances.
PLTs are relatively small compared to RBCs. The mean platelet volume — MPV — is approxi-
mately 10 fl, so PLTs can effectively be separated from RBCs by their size.
Platelet aggregation is common, particularly in feline

species, and is depicted by a flattened, lumpy histogram,
as shown at right. This effect can be minimized with
proper sample collection and vortex mixing of the sam-
ple (up to 30 seconds) before analysis.
The analyzer calculates the volumetric ratio of PLTs in whole blood as follows:
PCTpercent = PLT x MPV/10%,
PCTabsolute = PCTpercent / 10
Typically, PCT = 0.003 = 0.3%
Platelet Distribution Width — PDW — is a measure of platelet anisocytosis, the degree of size
variation. In a healthy sample, platelets demonstrate a normal (Gaussian) distribution (bell curve).
PDW can be characterized by a standard deviation (PDW-SD) or a coefficient of variation
(PDW-CV) represented as a percentage.

A.4 Normal Hematology Ranges (Dog, Cat, Horse,
and Others)
The following table summarizes normal ranges of blood cell parameters. Keep in mind that normal
values vary from population to population.
Parameter Unit Dog Cat Horse Bovine Pig Mouse

9
WBC 10 cells/l 6–17 5.5–19.5 5.4–14.3 4–12 11–22 6–15
LYM% % 12–30 20–55 17–68 45–75 39–62 57–93
MID% % 2–4 1–3 0–14 2–7 2–10 0–7
GRA% % 62–87 35–80 22–80 15–65 28.5–64 8–48
RBC 1012 cells/l 5.5–8.5 5–10 6.8–12.9 5–10 5–8 7–12
HCT % 37–55 24–45 32–53 24–46 32–50 35–45
MCV fl 60–77 39–55 37–59 40–60 50–68 45–55
RDWcv %
HGB g/dl 120–180 80–150 110–190 80–150 100–160 122–162
MCH pg 19.5–24.5 12.5–17.5 12.3–19.7 11–17 17–21 11.1–12.7
MCHC g/dl 310–340 300–360 310–390 300–360 300–340 223–320
PLT 109 cells/l 200–500 300–800 100–400 100–800 325–715 200–450
MPV fl 3.9–11.1 12–17
Parameter Unit Rat Rabbit Ferret Monkey User_1 User_2

WBC 109 cells/l 2.1–19.5 3–11.5 2–10 5.7–21 6–17 6–17
LYM% % 55–97 55–98 27–80 43–77 12–30 12–30
MID% % 0–5 0–6 0–10 0.4–6
GRA% % 2–31 0–40 16–70 19–52 62–87 62–87
RBC 1012 cells/l 5.3–10 5–9 7.8–13 4.8–6.3 5.5–8.5 5.5–8.5
HCT % 35–52 36–50 36–56 30–44 37–55 37–55
MCV fl 50–62 57–70 40–48 50–90 60–77 60–77
RDWcv %
HGB g/dl 140–180 127–163 124–187 80–150 120–180 120–180
MCH pg 16–23 17.5–23.5 13.5–16.5 12–13 19.5–24.5 19.5–24.5
MCHC g/dl 310–400 300–380 321–355 300–360 310–340 310–340
9
PLT 10 cells/l 500–1370 218–641 96–776 200–600 200–500 200–500
MPV fl

A.5 Veterinary Hematology References
■ “Schalm’s Veterinary Hematology,” 5th ed.,
Feldman, Bernard, et al, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2000.
■ “Veterinary Hematology, Atlas of Common Domestic Species,”
Reagan, William, et al, Iowa State Press, 1998.
■ “Veterinary Laboratory Medicine, Interpretation & Diagnosis,” 3rd ed.,
Meyer, Denny & Harvey, John, Elsevier Press, 2004.
■ “A Guide to Hematology in Dogs & Cats,”
Rebar, Alan, et al, Teton New Media, 2002.
■ “Automated Blood Counts & Differentials, A Practical Guide,”
Bessman, J David, Johns Hopkins University Press, 1986.
■ “Hematology Techniques & Concepts for Veterinary Technicians,”
Voigt, Gregg, Blackwell Publishing, 2000.

Appendix B Operating Principles
This appendix explains the basic operating principles of the analyzer.
Appendix Contents
B.1 Complete Blood Count (CBC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2

B.2 Measurement Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
B.2.1 Volumetric Impedance Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
B.2.2 Diluting Whole Blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3
B.2.3 Three-Part WBC Differential Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4
B.3 Hemoglobin Determination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-5
B.3.1 Hemoglobin Determination by Photometry . . . . . . . . . . B-5
B.4 Measured and Calculated Values. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6
Operating Principles B-1

B.1 Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The analyzer utilizes impedance technology whereby electrically neutral blood cells pass through
an electrically charged aperture thereby generating a “pulse.” Cell counts are determined by the
number of pulses measured in a given volume of blood over a set period of time. The decrease in
electrical conductance (degree of intensity) as measured is directly proportional to the cell volume.
This size discrimination, along with susceptibility to various lysing agents distinguish the basic
cell types (red, whites, platelets).
B.2 Measurement Methods

This section provides an overview of the hematology measurement methods used by the analyzer.
B.2.1 Volumetric Impedance Method

The analyzer uses a volumetric impedance method of counting blood cells. The following figure
illustrates this method.
The principle of this method is that blood diluted with an isotonic solution (diluent) conducts elec-
tric current by ionic conduction. A counting chamber made of an insulating material (plastic) holds
this diluted blood, while a small circular hole (aperture) in this chamber allows the flow of diluted
blood. (The analyzer aperture diameter and length is 80 µm — the optimal size for veterinary
hematology.)
Placing two electrodes on the two sides of this aperture and applying constant electric current
causes the isotonic solution to conduct electricity, and allows a voltage to be measured on the aper-
ture.
B-2 Operating Principles

Applying pressure to the diluted sample causes it to flow through the aperture. When a cell is pass-
ing the aperture, a small change in electric impedance occurs, so that the voltage rises somewhat
and a small electric pulse occurs. The amplitude of this pulse is proportional to the ratio of the cell
volume (size) and the aperture volume: the bigger the cell, the higher the pulse.
Proper counting (or differentiation) of cells requires passing of only one cell through the aperture
at a time. To help ensure this, the blood samples must be diluted, since cell concentrations are oth-
erwise too high.
Although diluted blood is used, in cases of
extremely high concentrations (such as leu-
kemia) WBC density can be 100x higher
than normal, causing two or more cells to
pass through the aperture at a time, generat-
ing one pulse instead of two (or more). This
is called coincidence, and results in non-lin-
ear counting of cells. Flags m, M, and N
appear in this case.
The WBC linearity range is 100 x 109 cells/l.
In cases of cell counts beyond the linear range, an external predilution of the sample is recom-
mended — see “Using Prediluted Mode” on page 4-20.
B.2.2 Diluting Whole Blood

The analyzer uses the following procedure to dilute the blood sample for processing:

In this procedure, 25 µl of whole blood is diluted with 4 ml of diluent to form a 1:160 first dilution.
25 µl of this dilution is then mixed with 0.5 ml of lyse to form an overall 1:180 dilution, suitable
for measuring WBC and HGB. After WBC-HGB measurement, 25 µl of the first dilution is mixed
with 5 ml of diluent to form an overall 1:32000 dilution, suitable for measuring RBC and PLT.
B.2.3 Three-Part WBC Differential Method

Since RBCs are typically 1000 times more concentrated in normal blood than are WBCs, they
would interfere with WBC counting if left intact.
In addition, the analyzer directly measures HGB, which is inside the RBCs and so must be
extracted.
Therefore, a hemolysing reagent (lyse) is used to dissolve cellular membranes, thus destroying
RBCs, and creating a complex solution suitable for photometry of HGB and counting WBCs.
The following figure shows the changes in blood cell characteristics that occur during three-part
differential hemolysis.
The membranes of the WBCs become selectively permeable, so that they begin to shrink down to
their nuclei in the slightly hypertonic lyse solution. Effectively hemolysed samples contain WBC
particles in the 30–300 fl region (for veterinary species).

The figure below shows a typical three-part differential WBC histogram of selective hemolysis
(dog).
LYM GRA
MON
B.3 Hemoglobin Determination

Hemoglobin is measured directly by means of the traditionally used cyanomethoglobin reaction,
but using cyanide-free substances to reach the same endpoint:
Fe 2+ converted to Fe 3+ methemoglobin + KCN cyanmethemoglobin
Hemoglobin concentration is measured photometrically.
B.3.1 Hemoglobin Determination by Photometry

HGB determination is one of the most important hematology parameters, as it relates to the oxygen
carrying capacity of blood.
The analyzer uses a cyanide-free lysing reagent to minimize environmental impact. The effect of
cyanide-free lyse is very similar to that of lyse containing cyanide, but the chemical reaction is
slightly different. The figure below illustrates the HGB measurement method.
HGB is measured by passing light (540 nm)
through the WBC dilution, and measuring
the transmitted light with a photo detector.
The light intensity (I) of the sample liquid is
logarithmically proportional to the concen-
tration of HGB:
HGB ≈ log (Ireference / Isample)

B.4 Measured and Calculated Values
Each sample is analyzed to produce a complete, 18-parameter blood count (CBC), including the
following measured or calculated parameters:
■ WBC — total white blood cell count

■ LYM — lymphocytes count
■ MON — monocyte count*
■ GRA — granulocytes count
■ LYM% — lymphocyte percentage
■ MO% — monocyte* percentage
■ GRA% — granulocytes percentage
■ RBC — red blood cell count

■ HGB — hemoglobin
■ HCT — hematocrit
■ MCV — mean corpuscular volume
■ MCH — mean corpuscular hemoglobin
■ MCHC — mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration
■ RDWc — red cell distribution width
■ PLT — platelet count

■ PCT — platelet percentage
■ MPV — mean platelet volume
■ PDWc — platelet distribution width
* The monocyte category consists primarily of monocytes. Impedance counters categorize white blood cell types (differential)
according to size, and therefore a certain percentage of eosinophils may have a mass that falls in the normal range for monocytes
(the exact percentage depends on the individual animal and is generally inconsequential due to the very low numbers of eosino-
phils in a healthy animal). Eosinophilias, however, can typically be visualized as a distinct peak between the monocyte range and
the granulocyte peak on a histogram.

B.5 Measured and Calculated Values
The HM2 measures and calculates the following values from tested blood samples.
Table B-1: Measured and Calculated Values
Values Definitions
White Blood Cells — WBC Total number of leukocytes (white blood cells).
(reportable as: cells/l, cells/µl) • WBC = WBCcal x (cells/l, cells/µl)
Total number of erythrocytes (red blood cells).
Red Blood Cells — RBC • RBC = RBCcal x (cells/l, cells/µl)
(reportable as: cells/l, cells/µl)
Hemoglobin concentration — HGB Measured photometrically at 540 nm (see page B-2 for
(reportable as: g/dl, g/l, mmol/l) details).
• HGB = HGBcal x (HGBmeasured – HGBblank)
Mean Corpuscular Volume — MCV (fl) Average volume of individual erythrocytes derived from the
RBC histogram.
Hematocrit — HCT Also known as Packed Cell Volume (PCV).
(reportable as: percentage, absolute) Calculated from the RBC and MCV values:
• HCTpercentage = RBC x MCV / 10
• HCTabsolute = RBC x MCV
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin — Average hemoglobin content of erythrocytes, calculated
MCH (reportable as: picogram, fmol) from RBC and HGB values:
• MCH = HGB / RBC
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concen- Calculated from the HGB and HCT values:
tration — MCHC (reportable as: g/dl, • MCHC = HGB / HCTabsolute
g/l, mmol/l)
Red Cell Distribution Width — Measure of the degree of RBC anisocytosis. Calculated
(reportable as: RDW-SD [fl], using the distribution width of the erythrocyte or platelet
RDW-CV [absolute]) population derived from the histogram at 20% of peak:
Platelet — PLT Number of thrombocytes (platelets).

(reportable as: cells/l, cells/µl) • PLT = PLTcal x (cells/l, cells/µl)
Mean Platelet Volume — MPV (fl) Average volume of individual platelets derived from the
PLT histogram.
Platelet Distribution Width — Measure of the degree of platelet anisocytosis.
(reportable as: PDW-SD [fl],
PDW-CV [absolute])
Platelet Hematocrit (Thrombocrit) — Calculated from the PLT and MPV values:
PCT (reportable as: percentage, • PCTpercentage = PLT x MPV x 100
absolute) • PCTabsolute = PLT x MPV

Values Definitions
White Blood Cell Differential: Absolute values counted in the channels determined by
LYM, LYM%: lymphocytes the three WBC discriminators:
MON, MON%: monocytes
GRA, GRA%: neutrophil, eosinophil
and basophil granulocytes
LYM GRA
MON
Percentages calculated from the absolute WBC value.

Appendix C Potential Sample
Interferences
Table C-1 lists situations in which substances in the samples themselves
can interfere with accurate analysis, and provides possible solutions.
Potential Sample Interferences C-1

C-2
Table C-1: Intrinsic Substances: Potential Sample-Induced Interferences
Sample Condition Indicators Results Affected Causes Solutions
Lipemia • Cloudy, white plasma. Increased HGB, Non-fasted sample Redraw fasted sample.
• High MCHC. MCHC, MCH. Metabolic disordera Use RBC, PCV, MCV, and RDW rather
RBCs may be than HGB, MCH, MCHC values to assess
smudged on anemia.
blood film.
Hemolysis Pink or red plasma. • Decreased Traumatic Redraw w/ clean venipuncture.
RBC, PCV venipuncture
• Decreased Hemolytic anemia N/A
MCHC
Clumped platelets • Decreased platelet count w/ platelet Decreased PLT Traumatic Redraw; collect blood in anti-coagulated
clumps often visible on blood smear or +/- increased venipuncture or syringe or use vacutainer system; invert
applicator stick dipped in sample. WBC feline species tube several times immediately after
• Rising left side of lymphocyte curve. filling; vortex sample immediately before
• Small pale clots stick to wooden testing.
applicator stick swirled in sample. Excess EDTA Fill tube at least halfway, or remove
(under-filled tube) portion of EDTA before filling tube.
Miscellaneous/ Use alternative anti-coagulant as heparin
idiopathic or citrate; vortex sample immediately
prior to sampling.
Potential Sample Interferences

Giant platelets Right side of platelet histogram runs into Decreased PLT, Thrombopoiesis, Confirm platelet estimate on smear and/
RBC histogram. decreased MPV feline species or manual platelet count.
Clotted sample • Visible clot in sample. Decreased PLT, Traumatic Redraw with clean venipuncture; use
• Red clot(s) stick to wooden applicator decreased WBC, venipuncture and/ vacutainer system or anti-coagulated
stick swirled in sample. and/or decreased or delayed transfer syringe; mix collection tube by multiple
• Platelet clumps may or may not be RBC (varies with to anti-coagulant inversions immediately after filling.
visible on blood smear. clot size) Clotted sample may clog the sample
needle.
Lyse-resistant Rising left side of lymphocyte curve. Increased WBC, Idiopathic (most Lyse volume may be adjusted for the
RBCs increased commonly with sample (for additional information,
Lymphs felines) contact Abaxis Technical Support — see
page 1-2).
a).Diabetes mellitus, nephrotic syndrome, hypothyroidism, lipoprotein lipase deficiency, acute pancreatitis, cholestasis, hyperadrenocorticism, hypercholesterolemia in
briards, idiopathic hyperlipidemia of miniature schnauzers.
Appendix D Veterinary Case Studies
The following pages present a variety of veterinary case studies.
Appendix Contents
D.1 Human Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-2

D.2 Dogs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-3
D.2.1 Dog: Normal Sample. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-3
D.2.2 Dog: High LYM%, Low GRA% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-4
D.2.3 Dog: High PLT, High GRA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-5
D.2.4 Dog: Low PLT, High WBC and GRA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-6
D.2.5 Dog: High RBC and HGB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-7
D.2.6 Dog: Low RBC and PLT, high WBC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-8
D.2.7 Dog: Eosinophilia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-9
D.3 Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-10
D.3.1 Cat: Optimal Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-10
D.3.2 Cat: Low PLT and RBC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-11
D.3.3 Cat: Clumped/Aggregated Platelets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-12
D.3.4 Cat: High WBC and GRA, Low RBC, HCT, and HGB D-12
D.3.5 Cat: Possible nRBCs and Clumped Platelets . . . . . . . . D-13
D.4 Horses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-15
D.4.1 Horse: Normal Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-15
D.4.2 Horse: Low LYM%, High GRA%. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-16
D.4.3 Horse: Low PLT and MPV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-17
D.4.4 Horse: Low RBC and HGB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-18
Veterinary Case Studies D-1

D.1 Human Control
The following report shows typical histograms of normal human control blood (that is, human con-
trol run in QC mode).
Note the differences in cell populations: human sample and control blood contains larger cells than
does animal blood.
D-2 Veterinary Case Studies

D.2 Dogs
Dog samples show RBC peaks around 60-70 fl with a good separation of the PLTs from the RBCs.
Canine lymphocyte populations (lymphocytes, monocytes, and granulocytes) can overlap as a
result of similar cell sizes.
D.2.1 Dog: Normal Sample

The following shows a normal dog histogram.
These histograms indicate the following:

■ WBC — All cells larger than 39 fl are counted as WBCs (indicated by discriminator 1).
Discriminators 2 and 3 show the MON population.
■ RBC — All cells larger than 25 fl are counted as RBCs. The RBC histogram follows a
normal distribution. The expected MCV is near 60 fl, and the expected RBC is near
7 x 1012 cells/l.
■ PLT — PLT cell population is between 2 and 25 fl. The PLT histogram follows a log-
normal distribution.

D.2.2 Dog: High LYM%, Low GRA%
The following shows a sample that has high LYM%. (LYM% is normally near 25–30% for dogs.)
This case shows a lymphocytosis.

■ WBC — High LYM%, low GRA%.
■ RBC — Normal.
■ PLT — Normal.

D.2.3 Dog: High PLT, High GRA
In this sample, the absolute value of GRA and PLT is high, and the LYM population is much
smaller than the GRA population. This case demonstrates a neutrophilia and thrombocytosis.

■ WBC — Three-part differential curve with good separation between populations.
■ RBC — Normal.
■ PLT — High PLT. (Note that the RBC histogram shows that the peak of the PLT curve,
to the left of the RBC discriminator, is higher than normal.)

D.2.4 Dog: Low PLT, High WBC and GRA
This sample shows a very low PLT, while the WBC is high due to an extremely high GRA. This
case demonstrates a neutropenia and thrombocytosis.

■ WBC — Discriminator 1 is at 53 fl, accurately separating the RBC/PLT region. Discrim-
inators 2 and 3 are placed correctly according to the WBC population.
■ RBC — Normal. Note that the PLT curve is very flat.
■ PLT — Very low PLT.

D.2.5 Dog: High RBC and HGB
This sample shows a slightly high RBC and HGB, while the WBC and PLT are normal.

■ RBC — Slightly high RBC, normal distribution.
■ PLT — Normal, with a perfect discriminator at 25 fl.

D.2.6 Dog: Low RBC and PLT, high WBC
This sample shows low RBC, PLT, HGB, and HCT values. The WBC is high due to a high GRA
population. This case demonstrates anemia and neutrophilia.

■ RBC — Very low RBC, with a normal distribution, indicating anemia.
■ PLT — Low PLT.

D.2.7 Dog: Eosinophilia
This sample demonstrates an eosinophilic canine patient.

■ WBC — The histogram indicates a normal WBC accompanied by an absolute lym-
phopenia and relative granulocytosis. The presence of the secondary eosinophil peak
(indicated by the arrow) indicates a eosinophil count higher than normal, and a need for
a manual blood smear.

D.3 Cats
An important characteristic of cat blood is that the RBCs are much smaller than those of dogs
(20–50 fl, MCV = 35–40 fl), potentially causing the RBC and PLT histograms to overlap slightly.
Cats also commonly demonstrate both platelet aggregation and giant platelets. The analyzer mini-
mizes these effects with a proprietary technology and dynamic discriminator approach to maxi-
mize accuracy.
A good practice when taking blood from cats is to discard the first few drops of the sample. This
can prevent hair and skin pieces from getting into the sample. Some clinics have minimized stress-
induced platelet aggregation by collection from the saphenous vein using a vacutainer. Pre-analyti-
cal vortex mixing (up to 30 seconds) also helps disaggregate platelets, with no deleterious effects.
D.3.1 Cat: Optimal Sample

The following shows an optimal normal cat sample.

■ WBC — Normal.
■ RBC — Normal.
■ PLT — Optimal: the PLT is well separated from the RBC.

D.3.2 Cat: Low PLT and RBC
This sample demonstrates a very low PLT, and a typical feline WBC histogram.

■ WBC — Normal. (Note that the WBC histogram at discriminator 1 is high, indicating
the presence of lyse-resistive RBCs.)
■ RBC — Slightly low RBC, with a correct distribution.
■ PLT — Very low PLT.

D.3.3 Cat: Clumped/Aggregated Platelets
The following samples show normal and clumped platelets, respectively:
Normal Clumped
D.3.4 Cat: High WBC and GRA, Low RBC, HCT, and HGB
The results for this cat indicate anemia and leukocytosis.

■ WBC — Discriminators are set correctly, showing a high GRA population.
■ RBC — Normal distribution, low RBC.
■ PLT — Discriminators are set correctly, showing a slightly low PLT.

D.3.5 Cat: Possible nRBCs and Clumped Platelets
This sample demonstrates a patient that may have nucleated RBCs and clumped platelets.

■ WBC — Rising left side of the histogram may indicate nucleated RBCs, or highly lyse-
resistant RBCs, which can be present in feline samples.
■ RBC — Normal distribution.
■ PLT — Flattened, lumpy histogram indicates aggregated (clumped) platelets.

D.3.6 Cat: Eosinophilia
This sample demonstrates an eosinophilic feline patient.
Cat eosinophils can appear as a “shoulder” (indicated by the arrow) on the main granulocyte peak.

■ WBC — Leukocytosis with an absolute granulocytosis and a relative monocytosis. All
cases of granulocytosis with an atypical histogram should be evaluated with a manual
blood smear.
■ RBC — Normal, with normal distribution.

D.4 Horses
Horse samples typically show a good separation of PLT/RBC, and well-separated WBC popula-
tions. The MCV is relatively low, while the RBC is high — around 10x1012 cells/l — giving a cor-
rect HCT near 40%.
D.4.1 Horse: Normal Sample

The following shows a typical normal sample for a horse:

■ WBC — WBC value is normal, and the discriminators are set accurately.
■ RBC — Normal. (Compare dog and horse histograms to see the smaller cells in the
horse.)
■ PLT — PLT is correct. (Note the good separation at the PLT/RBC discriminator.)

D.4.2 Horse: Low LYM%, High GRA%
The following is a typical horse sample with a low LYM content.

■ WBC — Slightly low LYM% and a high GRA%. Discriminators are set accurately.
■ RBC — Normal.
■ PLT — Normal. (Note the good separation from RBCs.)

D.4.3 Horse: Low PLT and MPV
In some cases, the PLT will be low. You can compare the height of the PLT peak to the RBC peak
on the RBC histogram. Low MPV is typical for horse samples, because their PLTs are small.

■ WBC — Normal WBC, with accurately placed discriminators.
■ RBC — Normal.
■ PLT — Low PLT (and MPV). (Note that the valley between the PLT and RBC popula-
tions is well defined, indicating that the PLT value is correct.)

D.4.4 Horse: Low RBC and HGB
This case shows a normal sample, with a slightly low RBC and HGB. It also shows good separa-
tion of the WBC populations from the RBC and from each other.

■ WBC — WBC is well separated histogram from the RBC. Clear populations, good
WBC differentials.
■ RBC — Slightly low RBC (HCT) and HGB, indicating possible anemia.
■ PLT — Normal. (Note the good separation from RBCs.)

Appendix E Glossary
■ Anemia
Anemia with reticulocytosis or polychromasia is described as regenera-
tive or responsive. This type of anemia occurs when the bone marrow is
actively producing red blood cells (RBCs). Findings that indicate
regenerative anemia include polychromasia, reticulocytosis, and hyper-
cellular bone marrow with a low myeloid:erythroid ratio. The presence
of regeneration suggests blood loss or RBC destruction. Regenerative
anemia also denotes that sufficient time has elapsed for regeneration to
occur (two to three days), that there are adequate blood-forming ele-
ments (iron, appropriate vitamins, protein) for regeneration, that there
are enough erythrocytic colonies in the bone marrow, and that there is
adequate kidney function to form erythropoietin.
■ Anemia, Macrocytic Hypochromic

Macrocytic, hypochromic anemia is characterized by abnormally large
red blood cells (RBCs) containing subnormal amounts of hemoglobin.
It is seen after acute blood loss or hemolysis. This type of anemia indi-
cates marked RBC regeneration, but several days must elapse before
this response is noted. Production of reticulocytes in response to ane-
mia contributes to the pallor, increased mean corpuscular volume
(MCV), and decreased mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration
(MCHC).
■ Anemia, Microcytic Hypochromic

Microcytic, hypochromic anemia is characterized by abnormally small
red blood cells (RBCs) containing subnormal amounts of hemoglobin.
It is caused by iron deficiency, impaired iron metabolism, or iron deple-
tion from chronic blood loss. In rare cases, portosystemic shunts and
chronic inflammation cause this type of anemia.
■ Anemia, Non-regenerative
Anemia without reticulocytosis or polychromasia is described as non-
regenerative. During the first two or three days after hemorrhage or
hemolysis, anemia may be non-regenerative. The slight anemias of dis-
ease can also be non-regenerative. When no response is seen for several
days, a primary or a secondary bone marrow disorder is indicated.
■ Anisocytosis
Anisocytosis is a variation in red blood cell (RBC) size without a
change in cell shape. Slight anisocytosis occurs normally in cats and
dogs, and by itself is not diagnostic. In moderate to marked anisocyto-
sis, RBCs can be macrocytic or microcytic. Microcytic RBCs occur in
immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, microvascular constriction, early
Heinz-body anemia, and iron-deficiency anemia. Macrocytic RBCs
occur with regenerative anemia and rarely with erythrocytic leukemia.
Since macrocytes raise the mean corpuscular volume (MCV), if micro-
cytic anemia is also a regenerative anemia (such as occurs with Heinz-
body anemia), the MCV is normal but the smear shows marked aniso-
cytosis.
Glossary E-1
■ Band Cells (stab cells)
The band cell (also called a stab cell) is an immature neutrophil occasionally found circulating in
peripheral blood. An increase in the absolute number of bands indicates increased demand due to
inflammation. Increased numbers are termed a “left shift.” Slight increases in bands (300–1,000/ml)
can occur in non-suppurative diseases, such as hemorrhagic or granulomatous disease. Bands in
excess of 1,000/ml indicate an intense purulent exudative process. Human labs often misdiagnose
canine neutrophils as band cells because the canine neutrophil is less lobulated than the human neu-
trophil.
■ Basophils
Basophils and tissue mast cells contain granules of histamine and heparin. These substances initiate
inflammation, prevent coagulation, and activate lipoprotein lipase. Basophils can be seen with a vari-
ety of diseases, while the presence of many mast cells on a blood smear signifies mast-cell neoplasia.
Mast cells and basophils are similar in appearance because both contain purple metachromatic gran-
ules. Mast-cell granules usually stain intensely and are often numerous enough to obscure the
nucleus. Canine and feline basophils contain fewer dark granules. The granules in feline basophils
stain light blue and are often missing from the cytoplasm, making them difficult to identify on blood
films. Basophils have a tri-lobed nucleus, similar to that of neutrophils. Mast cells have a single,
round nucleus.
■ Blood Indices
Anemia occurs when the number of circulating RBCs is below the normal level for the age, sex, and
breed of the species. The laboratory identifies anemia by low values for the PCV, hemoglobin, and
RBC count. Anemias are classified by response, cause, and cell characteristics such as cell size,
shape. and hemoglobin concentration. The red blood cell indices consist of the mean corpuscular vol-
ume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration
(MCHC), which are used to determine the type of anemia. Red cell indices are estimations of the size
and cellular hemoglobin concentration of a population of RBCs. Determining the type of anemia can
help select appropriate therapy and monitor therapy progress. Automated blood analyzers often have
a built-in function that determines one or more of the indices; the remaining indices are then calcu-
lated from determined values. The values can be calculated by knowing the PCV, hemoglobin level,
and RBC count. The MCHC and MCH are high at birth, but decrease to adult values in two months.
■ Differential White Blood Cell Count

In a differential WBC count, the number of each leukocytic cell type is reported as a percentage of the
total WBC count. To determine absolute numbers of each cell type, individual (100–200) WBCs are
identified and reported as a percentage of the total WBC count. This percentage is then multiplied by
the total WBC count to obtain absolute numbers of each cell type. The five-part traditional system
classifies the cells into neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Immature
forms are classified separately.
The analyzer gives a three-part differential count. It groups the granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils,
and basophils), but differentiates the lymphocytes and monocytes. A Percent Differential reports each
cell type and a percent of the total count. An absolute differential count multiplies the percent count
by the number of total WBCs. A good hand count evaluates 100–200 cells, but a machine count eval-
uates several thousand. An absolute count is determined by multiplying the percent of each cell by the
total white blood cell count, and provides a more accurate representation of the circulating cells.
■ Eosinophils
Eosinophils are WBCs with numerous functions. They are parasiticidal, help regulate allergic and
inflammatory responses by inhibiting mast cell release of histamine and serotonin, detoxify histamine
at the site of antigen-antibody reactions, regulate the intensity of IgE reactions, and have some phago-
cytic activity against invading bacteria. Their granules contain potent cytotoxic proteins and lipids
that are active in almost all types of inflammation and tissue injury. Eosinophils are easily recognized
on stained blood smears by their large yellow-orange granules. They normally occur in small numbers
in peripheral blood.
E-2 Glossary
■ Fibrin
Fibrin is a filamentous protein that is formed when the blood clots. It is deposited in filaments that
entangle with blood cells and platelets to form a clot.
■ Granulocytes
Granulocytes are WBCs that contain cytoplasmic granules. These include neutrophils, eosinophils,
and basophils. These cells are produced in the bone marrow. Increased granulocyte counts normally
indicate a neutrophilia, and decreased counts indicate a neutropenia.
■ Hematocrit
The terms hematocrit (HCT) and packed cell volume (PCV) are used interchangeably to indicate the
percent of red blood cells in a unit of whole blood. The analyzer calculates the HCT, which is equiva-
lent to the manual centrifuge packing of red cells done for the PVC. When a blood sample is centri-
fuged (spun hematocrit), it separates into three layers: an upper layer of plasma, a middle layer of
WBCs and thrombocytes (buffy coat), and a bottom layer of packed RBCs. Technically, the hemat-
ocrit is a measure of all cellular elements of blood (WBCs, thrombocytes, and RBCs), but by common
usage it has become synonymous with PCV. See also “Packed Cell Volume (PCV)” on page E-6.
■ Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin (Hb) is the oxygen-carrying pigment formed by developing RBCs in the bone marrow.
The hemoglobin value of a blood sample is approximately one-third of the PCV. Variations from this
indicate a laboratory error, hemolysis, or abnormalities such as Heinz bodies or lipemia. Altered
hemoglobin can form Heinz bodies or crystals. Determination of hemoglobin provides no clinical
advantage over measurement of the PCV, other than allowing the determination of mean corpuscular
hemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC).
■ Immature Red Blood Cell (RBC)

Immature RBCs include reticulocytes and nucleated red blood cells. Reticulocytes are indicated on
the analyzer by a high mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and high red cell distribution width (RDW).
Occasionally, immature cells retain their nuclei and are counted by the analyzer as WBCs.
■ Left Shift
The term left shift indicates increased numbers of circulating immature neutrophils (band cells, meta-
myelocytes, myelocytes). These cells cannot be differentiated by automatic cell counters. A regenera-
tive left shift is characterized by band cells and increased numbers of mature neutrophils. The number
of immature neutrophils does not exceed 10% of the mature neutrophils, and no young cells (such as
metamyelocytes) are present. A degenerative left shift is characterized by circulating band cells that
exceed 10% of the segmented neutrophils, in conjunction with decreased numbers of neutrophils or
the presence of very young cells, such as metamyelocytes or myelocytes. In a degenerative left shift,
the total WBC count can vary from below normal to slightly above normal. A degenerative left shift is
an unfavorable prognostic sign. Left shift must be determined by visual inspection of a blood smear
(slide).
■ Leukemia
Leukemia implies neoplastic cells in the peripheral blood. It can occur in myeloproliferative and lym-
phoproliferative diseases. In myeloproliferative diseases, immature precursers of red blood cells —
granulocytes — are seen on stained blood smears. In lymphoproliferative diseases, large numbers of
immature lymphocytes are present in peripheral blood smears.
■ Leukocytes
Leukocytes — “white blood cells” — are classified as neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes, lympho-
cytes, or basophils. These include the granulocytes and the mononuclear cells of the lymphoid sys-
tem. A total WBC count is the sum of all leukocytes.
Glossary E-3
■ Leukocytosis
Leukocytosis is an increased number of WBCs. It is usually caused by an increase in the number of
circulating neutrophils (neutrophilia), though lymphocytosis (especially with leukemia) occasionally
produces leukocytosis. Absolute values of individual WBC types provide much more diagnostic spec-
ificity than a simple WBC count. Exercise, fear, and digestion cause physiologic leukocytosis. Infec-
tion, rapidly growing neoplasms, acute hemolysis, hemorrhage, intoxication, leukemia and trauma
cause pathologic leukocytosis.
■ Leukopenia
Leukopenia indicates a decreased total WBC count. It is usually characterized by decreased numbers
of circulating neutrophils. The most common causes of leukopenia are excessive consumption in an
inflammatory process and primary bone marrow disease. Persistent leukopenia is a poor prognostic
sign.
■ Lymphocytes
Lymphocytes in the blood are a mixed population of B-cells and T-cells. They are the major cellular
component of immunity in the body. B-lymphocytes synthesize antibodies that are responsible for
humoral immunity. T-lymphocytes are the principal component of cellular immunity. Lymphocytes
also participate in immune regulation and surveillance, and some are cytotoxic.
■ Lymphocytosis
Lymphocytosis indicates increased numbers of circulating lymphocytes. Pathologic lymphocytosis
occurs in chronic inflammation, recovery from acute infection, lymphocytic leukemia, and hypoa-
drenocorticism. Lymphocytosis usually indicates a strong immune stimulus of some chronic duration
from a bacterial infection, viremia, or immune-mediated disease. Lymphocytic leukemia may or may
not be accompanied by lymphocytosis.
Lymphocytosis not associated with disease occurs with physiologic leukocytosis, from excitement in
healthy cats, from immature age-related responses in young puppies and kittens, and sometimes fol-
lowing vaccination.
■ Lymphopenia
Lymphopenia indicates decreased numbers of circulating lymphocytes. It can occur with acute severe
disease, some viral diseases (canine distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and coronavirus infections, feline
panleukopenia, and FeLV infection), stress-related corticosteroid response, and loss of lymph into the
gut (chylothorax, lymphangiectasia).
■ Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)

The MCV is the average volume of a single RBC. It is determined by direct measurement with an
electronic cell counter such as the analyzer. Increases are usually due to reticulocytes and indicate a
responsive anemia.
■ Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)

The MCH is the average amount of hemoglobin in each RBC. This calculated index is increased with
hemolysis. Decreases are termed hypochromasia, and are seen with reticulocytosis and iron defi-
ciency.
■ Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)

MCHC measures the average concentration of hemoglobin in RBCs. Increases are usually caused by
hemolysis. Decreases are termed hypochromasia and are seen in reticulocytosis and iron deficiency
anemia.
E-4 Glossary
■ Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)
The MPV is a machine calculation of platelet size. In thrombocytopenic dogs, increased mean platelet
volume gives indirect evidence of increased megakaryocyte response. High mean volume (>12 fl)
indicates increased response, but decreased volume (<12 fl) is not accurate in predicting lack of bone
marrow megakaryocyte production.
■ Monocytes
Monocytes are the immature blood stage of tissue macrophages. Increased numbers occur in response
to inflammation. Their main function is phagocytosis of foreign material, cellular debris, and patho-
gens that are not effectively controlled by neutrophils. They engulf intracellular organisms and those
causing a granulomatous inflammatory response. They are effective scavengers, removing tissue
debris, cellular remnants, and foreign material. Monocytes are also active in regulating the immune
response, processing antigen, and activating killer cells and macrophages. Monocytes are the most
commonly misidentified leukocyte in blood smears, often being placed into the lymphocyte category.
■ Monocytosis
Increased numbers of circulating monocytes (monocytosis) occur in chronic suppurative, pyogranulo-
matous, necrotic, malignant, hemolytic, hemorrhagic, or immune-mediated diseases. Monocytosis
also occurs in dogs as a corticosteroid-induced response from stress, adrenal hyperfunction, or exoge-
nous corticosteroids. Some animals with chronic disease have persistent monocytosis. Decreased
numbers of circulating monocytes (monocytopenia) is rare and has no diagnostic significance.
■ Neutrophils
Neutrophils phagocytize and kill microorganisms. They also initiate and modify the acute inflamma-
tory process, cause tissue damage, and are cytotoxic. Production and storage in the bone marrow,
margination of cells in the capillary beds, and the demands of peripheral tissues affect the numbers of
circulating neutrophils.
■ Neutropenia
Neutropenia indicates decreased numbers of circulating neutrophils. It can be due to insufficient pro-
duction or increased destruction of neutrophils. Conditions that cause neutropenia include endotox-
emia, viral infections, overwhelming bacterial infections, and administration of drugs that cause bone
marrow suppression.
■ Neutrophilia
Neutrophilia indicates increased numbers of circulating neutrophils. It can be physiologically induced
by exercise and corticosteroids, or pathologically induced by infections and tissue destruction. The
primary differential diagnoses for neutrophilia are inflammation (septic or non-septic), stress, exer-
cise, or excitement.
■ Nucleated Red Blood Cells (nRBC)

Nucleated RBCs (nRBCs) are larger and less mature than reticulocytes and mature RBCs. These
immature, nucleated stages of the erythrocyte generally occur within the bone marrow, and are rarely
observed in the peripheral blood of normal dogs and cats. They appear as metarubricytes in small
numbers in response to acute blood loss or anemia. Nucleated RBCs without concurrent anemia or
reticulocytosis are a sign of disease. They are found in splenic disease, extramedullary hemopoiesis,
lead poisoning, hyperadrenocorticism, leukemia, and bone marrow disease. Circulating nucleated
RBCs can be metarubricytes or younger cells, such as rubricytes. RBCs of birds and reptiles are all
nucleated and cannot be accurately measured by automated systems (nucleated RBCs are counted
as WBCs).
Glossary E-5
■ Packed Cell Volume (PCV)
The packed cell volume (PCV) and hematocrit (HCT) are measures of RBC numbers, expressed as a
percentage of the total volume of blood. By common usage, the PCV has become synonymous with
the HCT. Traditionally, the PCV is obtained by centrifuging an anti-coagulated blood sample (spun
crit); automated counters (including the HM2) calculate this value from the measured mean corpuscu-
lar volume (MCV) and RBC count. This is why laboratory values can differ slightly from in-clinic
values. The column of packed RBCs (PCV) is measured in millimeters and expressed as a percentage
of the total blood volume. Anemia exists when the PCV falls below the reference range for the spe-
cies. Hemoconcentration can exist when the PCV exceeds the reference range. There is normally a
3:1 ratio of PCV to hemoglobin value.
■ Platelet Clumping
Platelet clumping is an aggregation of thrombocytes that produces inaccurate counts with electronic
counters. This is caused by activation of the platelets by poor collection technique, but can occur
spontaneously in cats. Careful collection, pre-analytical vortex mixing (up to 30 seconds), and prompt
testing minimizes problems associated with platelet aggregation.
The histogram may show an abnormal distribution of large cells, indicating platelet clumping.
Because of clumping in samples, reference labs usually give only an estimation of platelet numbers as
seen on blood smears. An adequate count of 8–10 platelets per 100x objective field would suggest
platelet numbers greater than 150,000. Thrombocytopenic slides show < 7 per 100x objective, indi-
cating counts less than 100,000. Platelet aggregation/clumping often results in a flattened, lumpy
PLT histogram.
■ Platelet Count
Counts below 100,000/ml are significant. Platelets can be counted directly, or estimated from the
blood smear (>5 per oil-immersion field). Decreased platelet numbers (thrombocytopenia) occur with
disseminated intravascular coagulation, bone marrow depression, autoimmune hemolytic anemia,
systemic lupus erythematosus, and severe hemorrhage. Thrombocytosis (increased platelet numbers)
is caused by excess bleeding (from trauma, blood sucking parasites, or neoplasia), iron deficiency
anemia, and myeloproliferative syndromes.
■ Platelet Distribution Width (PDW)

Platelet distribution width (PDW) is a measure of platelet anisocytosis (variation in size). A mixture
of large and small platelets can give a normal mean platelet volume (MPV) but a high PDW. This
would indicate active platelet release.
■ Platelets (Thrombocytes)
Platelets (thrombocytes) are small, flat disks produced by megakaryocytes. They adhere to exposed
subendothelial collagen within seconds of injury to form a hemostatic plug. Low platelet counts pre-
dispose an animal to hemorrhage.
■ Poikilocytes
Poikilocytes are abnormally shaped RBCs. Poikilocyte is a general term that encompasses all catego-
ries of abnormal RBC shapes, including more specific terms such as echinocyte, acanthocyte, schizo-
cyte, and crenation. RBC distortion can occur with improperly prepared blood films and should not be
confused with poikilocytosis. Poikilocytosis is a non-specific change seen in chronic blood loss, iron-
deficiency anemia, diseases characterized by RBC fragmentation, and chronic lead poisoning. A
stained blood smear will show the abnormally shaped RBCs.
E-6 Glossary
■ Polycythemia
Polycythemia is an increase in the red cell mass of the blood. This is seen as an increase in PCV,
hemoglobin concentration, and RBC count. Absolute polycythemia results from increased bone mar-
row production of RBCs, and can be primary, as with polycythemia vera or myeloproliferative dis-
ease, or secondary to hypoxia and renal disease. Absolute polycythemia must be distinguished from
relative polycythemia that occurs with dehydration (high plasma protein), hypovolemia (low plasma
protein), shock, or splenic contraction (normal plasma protein).
■ Red Blood Cell Count (RBC)

Red blood cells (RBCs) transport oxygen from the lungs to body tissues. Their production is stimu-
lated by erythropoietin, secretion of which is controlled by blood oxygen tension. Erythropoietin
stimulates maturation of RBC precursors in bone marrow into mature RBCs. Blood loss, parasitism,
renal failure, RBC damage, chronic inflammatory disease, hematopoietic malignancies, and insuffi-
cient dietary iron, copper, or vitamin B12 cause a deficiency of RBCs (anemia). Shock, fluid loss, or
increased RBC production can cause increased RBC numbers (polycythemia). Dehydration or protein
fluid extravasation causes a relative decrease in the fluid portion of the blood and a relative increase in
the cellular portion. Carbon monoxide, lung disease, heart disease, and high altitude cause excessive
RBC production by stimulating erythropoietin secretion. Erythrocytic malignancies and polycythemia
vera cause excessive RBC production without normal stimulation.
■ Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)

The red cell distribution width is an electronic measure of anisocytosis (variation of cell size). RDW
increases where the degree of anisocytosis is increased. In regenerative anemia, RDW increases when
large cells are produced even before the MCV exceeds the reference range. It also increases when
small cells are produced as with iron deficiency anemia.
■ Reticulocytes
Reticulocytes are immature RBCs without a nucleus. They retain a fine network of endoplasmic retic-
ulum that stains with reticulocyte stains. These immature cells are slightly larger than mature RBCs,
and normally circulate in small numbers. Elevated numbers of circulating reticulocytes (reticulocyto-
sis) occur in chronic hemorrhagic or hemolytic anemia with increased erythropoiesis. A lack of circu-
lating reticulocytes in chronic anemia indicates bone marrow depression. Reticulocytosis without
evidence of anemia can indicate reduced blood oxygenation, which leads to increased erythropoietin
levels, which in turn stimulate erythropoiesis and release of reticulocytes from the bone marrow.
Reticulocytes are not counted by the analyzer, but are suggested by a high MCV and possibly an ele-
vated RDW. When present, this indicates that the animal is responding to blood loss by increased
red cell regeneration.
■ Right Shift
The term right shift indicates increased numbers of circulating hypermature neutrophils in neutro-
philic blood samples. These are cells showing hypersegmentation. This is usually seen in non-infec-
tious inflammatory processes, such as inflammation secondary to a malignancy. Right shift must be
determined by visual inspection of a blood smear (slide).
■ 3x Rule: Hemoglobin x 3 = Hematocrit (± 2%)

In normal blood samples, the hemoglobin is approximately one-third the hematocrit. This relationship
can be used to cross-check the accuracy of the blood counts. If abnormal, the sample should be
checked for hemolysis or Heinz bodies.
Glossary E-7
■ White Blood Cell Count (WBC)
The total WBC count combines circulating numbers of neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosino-
phils and basophils. Because neutrophils are the predominant leukocytic cell type, a high total WBC
count (leukocytosis) is generally due to an increase in this cell line. However, absolute values of indi-
vidual leukocytic cell lines (found by performing a differential count and multiplying each cell line
percentage by the total WBC count) often provides more diagnostic specificity. Leukopenia
(decreased WBCs) is generally evident only with a decrease in neutrophils. Leukocytosis and leuko-
penia occur with a variety of diseases. Normal ranges for total WBC counts are printed by the ana-
lyzer and should be similar to textbook ranges.
Note: The analyzer groups neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils into the single category of Granu-
locytes.
E-8 Glossary
Index
A Complete Blood Count (CBC) B-2
interpreting 4-22
Abaxis
measured or calculated values 4-13, B-6, B-7
Technical Support 1-2
platelet parameters 4-23
website 1-2
red blood cell parameters 4-23
Analysis procedure 4-7
white blood cell parameters 4-22
Anisocytosis B-7
Components, analyzer 2-3
Aperture, cleaning 7-5
Computer
B connecting to analyzer 2-22
USB driver for 2-23
Basophils 4-14, 4-22, B-8 Control panel 2-3
Blank measurements cursor control keys 2-6
flags 9-2 hard-function keys 2-6
running 4-5 keypad 2-6
Bleach-cleaning 7-5 OK key 2-6
soft-function keys 2-7
C Start button 2-5
Calibration 5-2, 5-3 status indicator (LED) 2-5
Hematology Calibrator 5-2 Controls. See Quality Control (QC)
history, viewing 5-6 Cursor control keys 2-6
materials 5-2
when needed 5-2 D
Cell discriminators 9-5, A-5 Daily maintenance 7-2
granulocytes 9-5 Database
in histograms 4-13 backing up results 6-4
lymphocytes 9-5 deleting results 6-4
monocytes 9-5 saving results to PC or USB flash drive 6-4
nucleated red blood cells (nRBC) 9-5 viewing results 6-2, 6-3
resistive red blood cells 9-5 Date and time, setting 3-12
reticulocytes 9-5 Diagnostic Self test 7-10
Cleaning
aperture 7-5 E
automatic 2-2, 7-5
Electrical requirements 2-19
bleach-cleaning 7-5
Environmental requirements 2-19
daily 4-4
Eosinophils 4-14, 4-22, B-6, B-8
on reagent pack change 7-8
Erythrocytes
wash head 7-2
See also Red blood cells
wash head (weekly) 7-2
Exporting results 4-15
Cleaning tube kit 2-10, 2-17, 7-5
External printer 2-20
Combined results (HM2 and VetScan) 4-16
Combined results (HM2/VetScan) 3-8
Index I-1
F K
Flags. See Warning indicators (flags) Keyboard
Fluidic system 2-11 external, connecting external 2-20
mini 2-17
G port 2-4
Granulocytes 4-14 Keypad 2-6
and cell discriminators 9-5
GRA/GRA% 4-13, B-8 L
Laboratory information 3-9
H Language used by analyzer 3-7
Hard-function keys 2-6 Leukocytes
Hematocrit (HCT) 4-23, A-4, B-7 See White blood cells
Hematology Levy-Jennings graphs 5-8
Calibrator 5-2 Linearity ranges 10-3
measurement methods B-2 Lymphocytes 4-22
Hemoglobin A-4 and cell discriminators 9-5
average content of erythrocytes B-7 LYM/LYM% 4-13, B-8
concentration (HGB) B-7
mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) 4-23, M
A-4, B-7 Maintenance 7-1
mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration cleaning wash head (weekly) 7-2
(MCHC) 4-23, A-4, B-7 daily 7-2
measured and calculated values B-7 Self test 7-10
measurement method B-5 weekly 7-2
Hemoglobin Concentration (HGB) 4-23 Measurement units, setting 3-8
Histograms 4-13 Menus and commands 2-12
cell discriminators 4-13 Microbubbles 2-24, 2-25, 2-30, 4-3
cell-type populations 4-13 Monocytes 4-22, B-6
full-spectrum 9-5 and cell discriminators 9-5
interpreting 4-12, 4-13, 4-14 MON/MON% 4-13, B-8
PLT (platelet) 4-14 Multi user mode 3-10, 3-11
RBC (red blood cell) 4-14
scanning for abnormalities 4-13 N
viewing 6-2 Neutrophils 4-14, 4-22, B-8
WBC (white blood cell) 4-13
History, calibration 5-6 O
OK key 2-6
I
Operating principles B-1
Initialization 2-30 Out-of-range results 9-2
Installation 2-20
electrical requirements 2-19 P
environmental requirements 2-19
Patient identification data 4-8
external keyboard 2-20
Peristaltic pump
external printer 2-20
replacing tube assembly 7-11
power supply 2-20
spare tube assembly 2-17
selecting a location 2-18
space requirements 2-18
I-2 Index
Platelets A-6 Q
aggregation (clumping) 4-14, A-6
Quality Control (QC) 5-6, 5-7
anisocytosis, measure of B-7
database 5-8
average volume B-7
Levy-Jennings graphs 5-8
clumped/giant 4-14
materials 5-6
count (PLT) 4-23
monitoring over time 5-8
distribution width B-7
stored results 5-6
histogram (PLT) 4-14
types 5-6
in CBC parameters 4-23
viewing results 5-8
in WBC histograms 4-13
when to perform 5-6
mean platelet volume (MPV) 4-23, B-7
measured and calculated values B-7 R
platelet count (PLT) B-7
platelet distribution width (PDW) 4-23, A-6, Reagent pack 2-18
B-7 changing 7-8
platelet hematocrit (PCT) 4-23, B-7 color-coded connections 2-4, 2-26
PLT histogram 4-14 connecting 2-24
thrombocrit B-7 status 8-2
Ports Reagent tubing kit 2-17
PS/2 keyboard 2-4 Red blood cells A-4
serial (RS-232) 2-4 anisocytosis B-7
USB 2-4 distribution width B-7
Power histogram (RBC) 4-14
turning on and off 2-27 in CBC parameters 4-23
Power supply 2-19 in WBC histograms 4-13
connecting 2-20 mean corpuscular volume (MCV) 4-23, B-7
cord 2-17 measured and calculated values B-7
input 2-4 nucleated (nRBC) 4-14, 9-5
surge protection 2-9, 2-19 red blood cell (RBC) histogram 4-14
uninterruptable (UPS) 2-9, 2-19 red blood cell count (RBC) 4-14, B-7
Power switch 2-4 red cell distribution width (RDW) 4-23, A-4,
Prediluted mode B-7
analysis 4-20, 4-21 resistive 9-5
calibrating before use 4-20 References, veterinary hematology A-8
preparing samples 4-20 Results
Printer backing up 6-4
configuring 3-3 contents stored 6-2
external 2-20 deleting 6-4
Printing exporting 4-15
Autoprint 3-3 interpreting 4-12
combined HM2 and VetScan results 4-16 linearity ranges 10-3
combined HM2/VetScan results 3-8 measured and calculated values B-7
examples 4-19 out-of-range 9-2
results 4-9, 4-15 printing 4-9, 4-15
PS/2 keyboard port 2-4 report contents 4-12
saved 4-15, 6-2
saving to PC or USB flash drive 6-4
viewing from USB flash drive 6-3, 6-4
warning indicators 4-9
Index I-3
Reticulocytes 9-5 Surge protector 2-9, 2-19
RS-232 port 2-4 System components 2-17
S T
Sample tube adapters 2-3, 2-10, 2-17 Technical Support 1-2
Samples Thermal paper 2-17
collecting and preparing 4-2 Thrombocytes. See Platelets
feline, special techniques 4-3, 4-14 Troubleshooting 9-1
in prediluted mode 4-20
multiple tube draws 4-2 U
potential interferences C-1 Uninterruptable power supply (UPS) 2-9, 2-19
proper handling 4-2 Units, setting 3-8
quality assurance 4-2 USB driver for computer 2-23
storing 4-3 USB ports 2-4
tube adapters 4-7
useful life 4-3 V
verifying species 4-8 Veterinary hematology references A-8
Sampling rotor 2-3, 4-7 VetScan VS2/Classic analyzers
Screensaver connecting 2-21, 2-22
messages 4-5, 7-2 printing combined results 3-8, 4-16
wait time 3-7
Self test 7-10 W
Serial (RS-232) port 2-4
Warning indicators (flags) 4-20, 9-2
Service, preparing for 7-1
blank flags 9-2
Shipping the analyzer 9-10
examples 9-6
shut-down before 2-28
interpreting 9-6
Shutting down
measurement conditions 9-2
for 10 days or more 2-28
result flags 9-2
for 72 hours or more 2-28
result warnings 9-3
for shipping 2-28
Wash head
Single user mode 3-10
cleaning 7-2
Soft-function keys 2-7
cleaning reminder 7-2
Software
cleaning weekly 7-2
updating 8-3
Weekly maintenance 7-2
version number 8-2
White blood cells A-5
Space requirements 2-18
classification A-5
Species
differential count 9-5
available 1-2
GRA/GRA% differentials 4-13, B-8
defining custom 8-3
in CBC parameters 4-22
printing ranges 8-4
LYM/LYM% differentials 4-13, B-8
verifying before analysis 4-8
measured and calculated values B-7
Specifications 10-2
MON/MON% differentials 4-13, B-8
Standby mode 2-5
three-part differential method B-4
leaving 2-31
white blood cell count (WBC) 4-13, B-7
Start button 2-5
Status indicator (LED) 2-5
Status information 8-2
Storing the analyzer 7-7
Subsystems, analyzer 2-11
I-4 Index
Updates VetScan HM2 Updates
VetScan HM2 Updates

VetScan HM2 Updates

780-7013 Rev. B Hm2b Operator's Manual Text

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For Veterinary Use Only

PN: 780-7003 Rev. B Assy

Fill in this information for future reference

Date of installation: ............................................................................................................................

Distributor name and address: ..................................................................................................

Abaxis sales representative name: ..................................................................................................

THANK YOU FOR PURCHASING THE VETSCAN HM2!

Table of Contents TOC-1

TOC-2 Table of Contents

1.1 Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

General Information 1-1

1.2 Customer and Technical Support

Note: Abaxis contact information is also available in the HM2’s software.

1-2 General Information

Computer connection. Fragile. Use caution when handling. Do

Printer connection. Use Warning: Alerts the operator of

Sunlight. Keep out of direct Caution: Procedures that must be

Storage temperature. Note: Important, helpful information

General Information 1-3

2.1 VetScan HM2 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

System Overview and Installation 2-1

2-2 System Overview and Installation

1 Control panel with high-contrast liquid 2 Interchangeable sample tube adapter

System Overview and Installation 2-3

1 Reagent tubing connections 2 Power On/Off switch

2-4 System Overview and Installation

Hard- LCD display

Table 2-1: Status LED Color Indications

LED color HM2 status

System Overview and Installation 2-5

❑ Alpha-numeric keys for entering data and selecting menu items.

■ Hard-function keys — single-function

Table 2-2: Hard-Function Keys

Press this key.... To use this function....

Measurement/Analysis — press to begin analysis.

Database — press to view stored results.

Utilities — press to perform quality control, calibration, mainte-

Exit — press to shut down the instrument.

2-6 System Overview and Installation

The functions of these keys depend on

Table 2-3: Soft-Function Keys

ACCEPT Accepts the results or changes made.

CANCEL Leaves the current menu without saving changes.

EXIT Exits the current menu or action.

GRAPH Displays histograms of the selected result.

TABLE Displays table of values for the selected result.

MENU Opens the local menu for the functions displayed.

PT.ID Enters or modifies patient data.

REPEAT Repeats the previous action.

PREVIOUS NEXT Move through results displayed on multiple pages.

PGUP PGDN Move through screens with multiple pages.

---16--- ---64--- Change the scaling of Levey-Jennings chart (16 or 64 days).

CHANGE Resets the status of the reagent pack.

LIMITS Displays reference ranges for selected species.

CHKSTA Checks the printer status if an error occurs.

RESET Resets the printer if an error occurs.

ABORT Stops the current process.

System Overview and Installation 2-7