The ADVIA 2120 hematology system: flow cytometry-based analysis of blood and body fluids in the routine hematology laboratory.

The ADVIA 2120 Hematology System was recently released by Bayer HealthCare, Diagnostics Division, as a bench-top analyzer designed for medium- to large-volume laboratories. This flow cytometry-based system uses light scatter, differential white blood cell (WBC) lysis, and myeloperoxidase and oxazine 750 staining to provide a complete blood cell count, a WBC differential, and a reticulocyte count. A cyanide-free method is used to measure hemoglobin colorimetrically. The system is automation ready; in addition to its capability for analyzing peripheral blood specimens, the analyzer is also equipped to analyze cerebrospinal fluid samples. In this article we explain the underlying technology of the ADVIA 2120, provide linearity ranges, method-specific reference ranges, and stability data, and describe novel parameters and applications that are unique to the methodology used by this instrument. Finally, we discuss research applications and future directions, such as the use of this hematology analyzer in the determination of fetal lung maturity.