Evaluation of the Hycel Diagnostics Diana-5 Hematology Analyzer

The Hycel Diagnostics Diana-5, a compact 5-part differential hematology analyzer, was evaluated in the hematology laboratory of Liège University Hospital, Belgium. Within-and between-batch precision, linearity, and absence of carryover were all excellent. All parameters were stable for 48 hours at 4 ° C and for 8 hours at room temperature. Comparability of complete blood counts to Bayer Technicon Advia 120 measurements was highly satisfactory, with the exception of the mean cell volume, which was slightly underestimated by the Diana-5 compared to the Advia 120. Comparisons of differential leukocyte counts to 400-cell microscopic differentials were excellent for neutrophils, lymphocytes, and eosinophils and were acceptable for monocytes. The efficiency of the flagging system was high for the detection of blasts and less satisfactory for the detection of immature granulocytes and atypical lymphocytes. The instrument was reliable and easy to use.