Serous Fluid Parameters Generated on the Sysmex XN-1000 in Malignant and Non-malignant Samples

Abstract

Analysis of serous effusion is helpful for diagnosing pathologic conditions, such as inflammation, infections and/or malignancy. A malignant serous effusion indicates advanced stage and poor prognosis of disease. An accurate and rapid diagnosis is therefore crucial. Currently, examination of serous effusion in clinical microscopy laboratories can be done by using an automated hematology analyzer.  This study aimed to describe body fluid (BF) parameters generated by the Sysmex XN-1000 on different types of serous fluids and compare these BF parameters among malignant and non-malignant samples. A total of 1,589 serous fluid samples, including 653 ascites, 905 pleural and 31 pericardial fluids, were analyzed. The results showed that body fluid parameters comprising white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), total cell (TC) and high fluorescence (HF) cell proportions were highest in pericardial effusion, followed by pleural and ascetic effusions. Comparing these parameters between malignant and non-malignant samples, as diagnosed by pathologist, revealed that the HF parameters (both absolute and relative values) in malignant samples were significantly higher than those of non-malignant samples. The findings indicate that the HF value may be used for screening malignant cells in serous effusions.