Operator’s Manual

VetScan HM5
Hematology System

For Veterinary Use Only

Customer and Technical Support

For USA: 1-800-822-2947
For Europe: +49 (6151) 350 79 – 0
[email protected]

June 2013

PN: 790-7013 Rev. B Text

© 2013, Abaxis, Inc.
Union City, CA 94587
IMPORTANT: READ BEFORE USING THE VETSCAN® HM5 HEMATOLOGY ANALYZER
FOR THE FIRST TIME

To get started quickly, please see 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: ................................................................................................................

VetScan is a registered trademark of Abaxis, Inc.

June 2013
PN: 790-7013 Rev. B

Abaxis, Inc. European Representative:

3240 Whipple Road Abaxis Europe GmbH
Union City, CA, USA Peka Park T9
94587 Otto-Hesse-Straße 19
64293 Darmstadt GERMANY
Table of Contents
Section 1: General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1.2 Customer and Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1.3 Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1.4 Symbols Used in Labeling and Hazard Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Section 2: System Overview and Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.1 VetScan HM5 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2.2 Unpacking the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
2.3 Selecting a Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.4 Installing the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
2.5 Turning the Analyzer On and Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26
2.6 Initializing the VetScan HM5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
2.7 Standby Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30
Section 3: Configuring the VetScan HM5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.1 Printer Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.2 Operational Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
3.3 Date and Time Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
3.4 Fluid Sensor Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
4.4 Adjusting the Needle Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
4.5 Adjusting the Lyse Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4.6 Interpreting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4.7 Printing and Exporting Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4.8 Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
4.9 Using Prediluted Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
4.10 Interpreting CBC Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
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

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
7.5 Changing the Reagent Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
7.6 Running the Self Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
7.7 Running the 5 Cycle Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
7.8 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 the Normal Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Section 9: Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1
9.1 Warning Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
9.2 Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
9.3 Evaluating Unexpected Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
9.4 Preparing the Analyzer for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-13
Section 10: Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1
10.1 VetScan HM5 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
10.2 Linearity Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
10.3 Precision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Section 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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-8
A.5 Veterinary Hematology References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-10
Section B: Operating Principles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1
B.1 Complete Blood Count (CBC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
B.2 Measurement Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-2
B.3 Hemoglobin Determination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6
B.4 Measured and Calculated Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-7
B.5 Measured and Calculated Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8
Section C: Potential Sample Interferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1
Section D: Veterinary Case Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1
D.1 Normal Level Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-2
D.2 Dogs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-3
D.3 Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-9
D.4 Horses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-12
Index

TOC-2 Table of Contents

Section 1 General Information
This section provides general information about the Abaxis Vet-
Scan HM5 Hematology System.

Section Contents

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

1.2 Customer and Technical Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1.3 Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1.4 Symbols Used in Labeling and Hazard Identification . 1-4

General Information 1-1

1.1 Introduction
The VetScan HM5 hematology analyzer is a compact, fully automated cell counter for in-vitro diagnos-
tic use in veterinary clinics, research laboratories, point-of-care centers, and pharmaceutical/biotech
companies.

The VetScan HM5 can process 16–20 samples per hour, and is designed to determine the following 22
hematology parameters from 50µl (2 x 25µl) of whole blood:

 WBC: LYM#, MON#, NEU#, EOS#, BAS#

LYM%, MON%, NEU%, EOS%, BAS% (five-part WBC differential)
 HGB, RBC, HCT, MCV, RDW, MCH, MCHC
 PLT, MPV, PCT, PDW
The VetScan HM5 is calibrated to analyze multiple veterinary species. Check the list of species on the
analyzer itself, or contact Abaxis Technical Support for the full list of available species. In addition,
species may periodically be added through a free software upgrade.

The VetScan HM5 system features the following components:

 the hematology analyzer itself, including a display and an internal printer
 an external keyboard that can be connected to the analyzer if needed
 a reagent pack, including five individually bottled solutions: diluent, lyse, lyse 2,
cleaner, and rinse (the diluent container can also be used as a waste container for the next
reagent pack)
For added convenience, the VetScan HM5 can be connected to a VetScan VS2 Chemistry Analyzer so
that results from both instruments can be consolidated and printed on a single, standard-size page. In
addition, the two analyzers can be connected in tandem to a computer for use with veterinary data man-
agement systems. The VetScan HM5 alone will also interface directly with an external computer.

1-2 General Information

1.2 Customer and Technical Support
Abaxis Technical Support personnel can answer your questions regarding the VetScan HM5 Hematol-
ogy Analyzer, or the combined VetScan HM5/VS2 system.

For USA:
 Telephone: 800-822-2947, 24 hours a day, seven days a week
 Email: [email protected]
 Web: www.abaxis.com
 Fax: 877-900-9333

For Europe:
 Telephone: +49 (6151) 350 79 – 0
 Email: [email protected]

1.3 Safety Information

WARNING: THE PERIPHERAL CONNECTORS ON THE ABAXIS VETSCAN HM5

ARE SELV (SAFETY EXTRA LOW VOLTAGE) CONNECTORS. TO
AVOID THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK, CONNECT THE INSTRU-
MENT ONLY TO EXTERNAL DEVICES THAT ARE SELV RATED.

Note: This equipment has been designed and tested to CISPR 11 Class A.
In a domestic environment it may cause radio interference, in
which case, you may need to take measures to mitigate the interfer-
ence.

Note: For Canada: This product has been tested to the requirements of
CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 61010-1, second edition, including Amend-
ment 1, or a later version of the same standard incorporating the
same level of testing requirements.

General Information 1-3

1.4 Symbols Used in Labeling and Hazard
Identification
The VetScan HM5 uses safety features to protect the operator from injury, prevent damage to the ana-
lyzer, and to alert the operator of problems with results. Symbols used in labeling and through this
manual are shown below.

Biohazard. In accordance with good Fragile. Use caution when handling.

laboratory practice, all material from Do not drop.
animal sources should be considered
potentially infectious and handled
with the same precautions used with
patient specimens. Always use
universal biosafety precautions.

WARNING: Alerts the operator of CAUTION: Procedures that must

hazardous conditions be followed to avoid
that can cause injury or damaging the analyzer.
damage the analyzer. Read all caution
Read all warning statements carefully.
statements carefully, The Product Warranty
and proceed with can be voided if caution
caution. statements are not
followed.

Storage temperature. Store only at Sunlight. Keep out of direct sunlight.

temperatures within the indicated
range.

Up. Always store with the arrow Note: Important, helpful

facing up. information

Computer connection. Use only a Ethernet. The analyzer contains a

recommended computer interface port for connecting with computers
cable. through a network.

Printer connection. Use only Keyboard connection. Use the

printers recommended and validated keyboard provided.
by Abaxis. Use only the
recommended printer cable.

1-4 General Information

Section 2 System Overview
and Installation
This section includes an overview of the VetScan HM5, and pro-
vides complete installation instructions.
2.1 VetScan HM5 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2.1.1 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2.1.2 Main Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
2.1.3 Touchscreen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2.1.4 Reagents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2.1.5 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
2.1.6 Subsystems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
2.1.7 Menu/Command Listing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10
2.2 Unpacking the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
2.3 Selecting a Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.3.1 Space Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
2.3.2 Environmental Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
2.3.3 Electrical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
2.4 Installing the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
2.4.1 Connecting an External USB Keyboard
(Optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
2.4.2 Connecting the Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
2.4.3 Installing Paper into the Built-In Printer . . . . . 2-18
2.4.4 Connecting an External Printer (Optional) . . . . 2-19
2.4.5 Connecting the VetScan HM5 to a
VetScan VS2 Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20
2.4.6 Connecting the VetScan HM5 to a Computer . . 2-20
2.4.7 Connecting the Reagent Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23
2.4.8 Connecting the Waste Bottle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-25
2.5 Turning the Analyzer On and Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26
2.5.1 Turning the Analyzer On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26
2.5.2 Turning the Analyzer Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26
2.6 Initializing the VetScan HM5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-28
2.7 Standby Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-30

System Overview and Installation 2-1

2.1 VetScan HM5 System Overview
The VetScan HM5 is a fully-automated, five-part cell counter designed specifically for veterinary
applications, offering a comprehensive 22-parameter complete blood count with cellular histograms in
just minutes. Its superior performance, elegant design, ease of use, true database management capabil-
ity, and minimal maintenance make it the optimal hematology system for veterinary clinics, research
laboratories, and pharmaceutical/biotech companies.

2.1.1 Features
 Small sample size requirement: consumes 50 µl of potassium EDTA-preserved whole
blood per CBC measurement.
 Rapid test turnaround: less than 4 minutes to results.
 Advanced, integrated self-cleaning system for optimized performance with very minimal
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.
 Reliable results, including out of range values for three-part and five-part modes: auto-
matic calculations are provided for external 1:6 dilutions in cases of extremely high values
or very small sample volumes.
 Simple, flexible database with large storage capacity:
 Automatically saves up to 5000 test records.
 Data can be downloaded to a USB pen drive or a compatible data-management
system.
 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 VetScan HM5 can be connected to a VetScan VS2
Chemistry Analyzer for integrated results reporting.
 Advanced user features: customizable normal range, adjustable lysing strength, and
multi-user mode (contact Abaxis for user mode information).

2-2 System Overview and Installation

Benefits
 15 species available
 Small footprint
 Easy to use
 Reliable results, including out-of-range values
 Rapid test turn-around with minimal hands-on time
 Customizable reference ranges
 Optimized performance with minimal maintenance
 Automatically saves up to 5000 test records
 Results downloadable to USB pen drive and integrated data management system
 Allows software updates and future instrument upgrades
 Integrated result reporting and comprehensive laboratory analysis
 Software tracks reagent usage and notifies you when replacement is needed
 Eco-friendly reagents

System Overview and Installation 2-3

2.1.2 Main Components
The following pages show the main components of the VetScan HM5 analyzer.

Front View

1 Built-in thermal paper printer — 2 Control touchscreen with high-contrast

see page 2-6 liquid crystal display (LCD) — see
page 2-6
3 Sampling rotor 4 USB Type A ports

2-4 System Overview and Installation

Back View

1 6

1 Reagent tubing connections 2 Power On/Off switch

3 12v DC external power supply input 4 USB Type A ports (2)
5 Ethernet port 6 USB Type B port

Note: This product has been tested to the requirements of CAN/CSA-C22.2

No. 61010-1, second edition, including Amendment 1, or a later ver-
sion of the same standard incorporating the same level of testing
requirements.

System Overview and Installation 2-5

Built-in Thermal Paper Printer
The analyzer includes an internal printer that outputs test results on
thermal paper.

2.1.3 Touchscreen
The analyzer is controlled through a color touchscreen.

2.1.4 Reagents

VetScan HM5 Reagent Pack

The VetScan HM5 reagent pack (PN 770-9000) consists of bottles containing diluent, cleaner, lyse,
lyse 2, 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.

2-6 System Overview and Installation

 Table 2-1: Reagents and Containers

Reagents Descriptions Color Code Volume

Diluent Isotonic saline solution used to dilute whole Green 9 liters
blood specimens, and to rinse the analyzer’s
fluidic system between analyses.
Rinse Used with diluent to prevent salt built-up on White 500 ml
aperture.
Cleaner Used in the fluidic system cleaning process. Blue 300 ml
Lyse Used to create hemolysate for three-part WBC Yellow 300 ml
differential, and for total WBC and HGB.
Lyse 2 Used to dilute whole blood and differentially White with 800 ml
hemolyse white blood cells to separate orange dot
eosinophil granulocytes from other WBC by
volume. Suitable for determining EOS, EOS%,
BAS, and BAS% parameters.

Controls and Calibrator

Before you can perform analyses, you must perform a quality control run with the normal level control/
calibrator1 to ensure proper calibration. If the quality control run fails, perform the calibration proce-
dure.

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 refer to your VetScan HM5 price list for part
numbers.

 High-level control, Abaxis part no. 770-9030

 Normal-level control, Abaxis part no. 770-9029
 Low-level control, Abaxis part no. 770-9028

2.1.5 Accessories
This section describes the accessories that are included with the analyzer. To order replacements, con-
tact 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 2-5). The mini-keyboard provides a convenient way to enter patient and clinic informa-
tion.

1. The VetScan HM5 controls are derived from human sources. Observe universal safety precautions when handling the controls.
See “Calibration and Quality Control” on page 5-1.

System Overview and Installation 2-7

Power Supply and Power Cord
The analyzer uses an external 12v DC power supply that can operate
from a 230 or 110 volt main outlet. The power supply’s input socket
is a standard power cable connection, and its output is a special lock-
ing 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 VetScan HM5 will be used in an area prone to
electrical surges or power outages.

An appropriate power supply is vital for system integrity.

Reagent Tubing Kit

The reagent tubing kit (Abaxis Part No.
770-9002) includes the color-coded
reagent tubing used to connect the
VetScan HM5 with the containers in the
reagent pack.
Bottle caps with drop-down tubing
The kit also includes the reagent bottle
caps with connectors, drop-down tubing,
and cleaning tube as shown. Reagent tubing

Cleaning Tube Kit

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

Cleaning tube

2-8 System Overview and Installation

Sample Tube Adaptors
The instrument includes the following sample tube adaptors, for use as shown in “Analyzing a Sample”
on page 4-8.

Table 2-2: Sample Tube Adaptors

Tube Adaptor Part Number Sample Tube Size
3–5 ml Tube Adaptor 790-8001 3–5 ml
1–2 ml Tube Adaptor 790-8002 1–2 ml
Control Vial Adaptor 790-8003 2 ml control vial
Microtainer Tube Adaptor 790-8004 500 microliters

Peristaltic Pump Tube Assembly

As part of routine preventive maintenance, the analyzer’s peristaltic pump tube must be inspected, and
replaced if necessary (see “Periodic Maintenance” on page 7-2). The analyzer is shipped with one
replacement peristaltic pump tube. Before changing the tubing, contact Abaxis Technical Support —
see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-3.

Thermal Paper Roll

Two thermal paper rolls are included for the instrument’s internal printer, to provide quick, convenient
printed results.

Note: Thermal paper printouts only last about a year. If you need to keep a
record for longer than a year, make a photocopy of the printout.

2.1.6 Subsystems
The VetScan HM5 has two primary subsystems.

 Fluidic system: Performs Diluent

sampling, diluting, mixing, Lyse
lysing, and rinsing func- Cleaner Lyse 2

tions. Generates the regu- Waste Rinse

lated vacuum used for

moving cells through the
Cleaner

Lyse 2
Rinse

Diluent Waste
Lyse

aperture during the count- solution container

ing process.

 Data processing system: Counts, measures, and calculates blood parameters, generates
and stores numerical results and histograms.

System Overview and Installation 2-9

2.1.7 Menu/Command Listing
The following charts outline the VetScan HM5’s menu functions.

Measure Run Sample Sample ID Enter for each sample.

Type Select Species Run
Cancel
Blank
Normal Ranges

Patient ID
Name
Age
Gender
Doctor
Prediluted Yes
No

Change Lyse 0.2ml Adjusts lyse reagent

0.1ml volume.
0ml (default)
–0.1ml
–0.2ml

Sample Depth –2mm Adjusts needle

0mm sampling depth.
5mm
10mm
15mm

Run
Cancel
Blank
Normal ranges

Re-run Run
Cancel Repeats last sample
Blank tested (assigns new
sample ID).
Normal ranges

Tech. Displays technical info

related to the last
sample or blank run.
Print
Discard
Exit

2-10 System Overview and Installation

Database Details Print Prints full details of the selected record to the selected printer.
Send Sends the selected record to a computer.
Tech
Edit Enables editing of the information in the selected record.
Back

Filter Date From

Date To
Patient ID
Sample ID
Type Species.
Records Selected or unselected.

Print

Trends Creates trending chart for parameters

when multiple data records are selected.

Manage Delete Deletes selected records.

Send Sends selected records to a PC through a serial connection.
Backup Saves selected records to a USB drive.
Back

Exit

System Overview and Installation 2-11

 Maintenance Cleaning Automatic Self Clean Cleans build-up from aperture.
Clean Washhead Move washhead to cleaning position.
Enzymatic Cleaning Cleans using enzymatic cleaner.
Bleaching Bleaches internal tubing.
Drain Chamber Drains aperture chamber.
5 Cycle Clean Runs 5 blank cycles to flush the analyzer.
Home/Back

Calibration Measure Prediluted Set Ranges

Sampling Depth Set Ranges

History Displays previous calibrations.

Prediluted Factors Manually changes predilution factors.
History Displays previous prediluted calibration runs.

Reset Calibration Factors For troubleshooting only.

Home/Back

Quality Control QC Low References Enter or load target QC values.

QC Normal Measure
QC High Diagram Levy-Jennings plot of QC run history.
Database Database for QC runs at this control level (1/2/3).

DataMatrix Loads three levels of QC values from 2D barcode scanner.

Diagnostics Device Information Model

Serial Number
Software/
Build Version
Exit

Statistics Displays operation statistics.

Self Test Tests internal systems.
View Log File Displays history of analyzer actions/errors.
Home/Back

Reagent Status Priming Prime Cleaner Primes cleaner tubing (blue connector).
Prime Diluent Primes diluent tubing (green connector).
Prime Lyse Primes lyse tubing (yellow connector).
Prime Lyse 2 Primes lyse 2 tubing (orange connector).
Prime Rinse Primes rinse tubing (white connector).

Fluid Sensors Cleaner Enables/disables cleaner sensor.

Diluent Enables/disables diluent sensor.
Lyse Enables/disables lyse sensor.
Lyse 2 Enables/disables lyse 2 sensor.
Rinse Enables/disables rinse sensor.

Replace 1. Change Pack Resets all reagent/waste levels and reagent pack
2. Calibrate Sensors installation date.

Prime All Primes all reagent tubing.

Exit

Back

2-12 System Overview and Installation

Settings Printer Device Selects printer to use for reports.

Printout VS Separate Page Prints VS2 chemistry results and HM5 results on separate
pages.

Units inch Units of measurement for margins.

cm

Top Margin Sets top margin for printing.

Left Margin Sets left margin for printing.

Format Limits Prints reference ranges.

Warnings Prints analyzer warning flags.
Histograms Prints histograms with results.
Tech Info Prints voltage information with results.
Diagnostic flags Prints diagnostic flags with results.
Logo Prints logo in report header.
Automatic print Turns on autoprint for all results.

Header Sets lab information displayed in report header.

General Sound Enables/disables sound alerts.

Language Sets language for analyzer displays.

Export format Format used to export results to a file.

Screen Saver Time Sets time till screen saver activates.

Standby Time Sets time till StandBy mode activates.

Measurement 1. Units Cells Sets the units used with these parameters.
HGB
PCT, HCT

2. Normal Ranges

3. Settings Automatic Print Automatically prints each test result.

PC Link Enables connection to a computer.
Automatic Send Automatically sends each test result to a computer.
Barcode Enables barcode scanning of sample names and IDs.
VSxLink Enables connection to a VS2 analyzer.
VetScan HM5 Sets the date range for matching VS2 and HM5 records.
combining
Date Format of VS Matches VS2 and HM5 date formats when combining printing.
Accept/Cancel

Date & Time Set Date and Time 12 hour Sets format for displaying times.
Set Format mm/dd/yy Sets format for displaying dates.

Exit Shutdown
Preparing for Shipment Cleaning and shutdown procedure when analyzer will be
unused more than 10 days.
Logout Admin Logs out from Admin user account.
User Management Add New User Allows creation and maintenance of user accounts with
Remove User differing access levels.

Automatic Login Set

Edit User

System Overview and Installation 2-13

2.2 Unpacking the System
Follow these directions for unpacking the VetScan HM5 analyzer from its shipping container.

Note: Save the shipping box, accessory box, and packaging materials in case
you need to use them later.

1. Open the shipping carton box, and remove the Unpacking Instructions. Follow the instructions
on the Unpacking Instructions.
2. Lift the Accessory Box up and out of the shipping carton.
3. Pull the Foam Cap 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.
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.

2-14 System Overview and Installation

8. Remove the foam above the needle XYZ mov-
ing assembly, and remove the tape from the top
of the counting chamber, as shown.
foam

tape

9. Open the accessory box, and use this list to make sure you received all components of the Vet-
Scan HM5 system:

 VetScan HM5 Analyzer  Reagent tubing kit, including caps for

reagent containers (with color-coded
connectors) and reagent tubing
 VetScan HM5 Operator's Manual  Cleaning tube
(this document)
 External power supply and power  Thermal paper rolls (two)
cord
 Mini-keyboard  Warranty card (inside the Operator's
Manual)
 Four sample tube adaptors  Spare peristaltic pump tube assembly
(store in a convenient location)

Note: The VetScan HM5 requires a reagent pack to operate. A reagent pack
(Abaxis Part No. 770-9000) must be ordered for installation.

Note: To start the warranty on the VetScan HM5, make sure to complete the
warranty card and mail it to Abaxis, Inc. within 10 days of system
installation. Customers who submit the warranty card are automati-
cally 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.

System Overview and Installation 2-15

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 perfor-
mance. To ensure the accuracy and precision of the instrument, and to maintain a high level of opera-
tional safety for lab personnel, the environmental and electrical requirements in this section must be
met. Be sure to thoroughly consider all the following requirements in selecting a permanent 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 in (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 in (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 2-23 for details).

2-16 System Overview and Installation

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 opti-
mal 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, freezer, refrigerator, or fan. Such devices
can interfere with the analyzer’s operation.
 Operating the analyzer at an altitude above 10,000 ft (3000 m) is not recommended.

2.3.3 Electrical Requirements

 The VetScan HM5 is powered by a standard wall outlet, and requires a power supply of
100–240v AC, 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 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.

System Overview and Installation 2-17

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 USB Keyboard (Optional)

 You can connect an external USB keyboard to a USB port on the rear or side of the ana-
lyzer.

2.4.2 Connecting the Power Supply

WARNING: USE ONLY THE POWER SUPPLY PROVIDED WITH THE VETSCAN
HM5. 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 (110–230v AC). Using an
uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is also highly recommended to shield out electrical noise
from the wiring.

2.4.3 Installing Paper into the Built-In Printer

Note: Store thermal paper away from direct light and humidity.

If you plan to print results using the analyzer’s built-in printer, install the thermal paper roll as follows.

1. Remove any tape from the roll of thermal paper.

2-18 System Overview and Installation

2. Open the paper compartment by lifting the
latch on top of the analyzer.
paper must
3. Insert the paper roll into the compartment so unroll in this
direction
that the paper unrolls beneath the roll and
toward the front of the instrument.
4. Make sure the free end of the roll extends out
of the front of the compartment.
5. Press the compartment door closed.

Note: When the roll is running out, a red mark appears on the paper.

2.4.4 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 port on the rear of the analyzer (USB A — flat end —
of the cable), and to the printer (USB B — square end).
3. Plug the printer’s power cord into a grounded outlet.
4. Make sure the analyzer is configured for use with the printer — see “Printer Settings” on
page 3-2.
5. Turn the printer on before turning on the analyzer.

System Overview and Installation 2-19

2.4.5 Connecting the VetScan HM5 to a VetScan VS2 Analyzer
1. Make sure both analyzers are turned off.
2. Connect a USB Type A-B VetScan HM5 VetScan VS2
cable (Abaxis Part No.
1980-0026) to a USB Type A USB
port on the back of VetScan cable
HM5, and to a USB Type B
port on the back of the VS2.
3. Turn on the VetScan VS2.
4. When the VetScan VS2 has
completed its start-up, turn on
the VetScan HM5.

USB ports
(Type A on VetScan
HM5, Type B on VS2)

Note: To print VetScan VS2 Chemistry Analyzer results on the VetScan HM5,
the VetScan HM5 must be configured properly. For instructions, see
“Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results” on page 4-17.

2.4.6 Connecting the VetScan HM5 to a Computer

You can connect the VetScan HM5 to a computer using a 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 USB Type A-B Cable

The HM5 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 ana-
lyzer.

Note: Do not connect the USB cable until directed to do so.

2-20 System Overview and Installation

The following are required to enable the analyzer to communicate with a computer:
 PC computer with Windows XP or Windows 7, and a USB port
 USB Type A-B cable (Abaxis Part No. 1980-0026)
 Abaxis VetScan HM5 software CD, version 2.00 or higher (includes 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 1-3.

Step 1 — Installing the VetScan HM5 USB Driver

1. Insert a USB pen containing the USB driver into one of the computer’s USB ports. The instal-
lation program then starts automatically.
2. Locate and open the Driver Installation Tool folder, then double-click the MCP2200 Driver
Installation Tool file in it.
3. Follow the instructions displayed on-screen.

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 3 — Configuring the USB Driver (Windows XP and Windows 7)

The analyzer appears on the computer as a virtual communications port. You will need to use the com-
puter’s Device Manager to redefine that port’s properties.
1. Right-click My Computer.
2. Select Manage.
3. Select Device Manager.
4. Double-click Ports (COM and LPT).
5. If the analyzer has successfully connected to the computer, that connection will show as USB
Serial Port (COMx), where x = any number. This port number is needed to connect any soft-
ware to the analyzer.

System Overview and Installation 2-21

Step 4 — Configuring the Analyzer to Communicate with a PC

You can now configure the analyzer to communicate with an interfaced practice management software
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 Settings” on
page 3-7.

PC Settings

1. From the Home screen, touch Settings > Measurement.

2. Touch Settings.
3. Touch PC Link so that it reads Enabled.
4. To enable the analyzer to automatically send data records to the
computer after each sample is analyzed, touch Auto send so that
it reads Enabled.
5. If needed, touch VSx Link so that it reads Disabled.

2-22 System Overview and Installation

2.4.7 Connecting the Reagent Pack

CAUTION: If the analyzer has been kept at a temperature below 50 ºF (10 ºC),
allow it to sit for at least an hour at the correct operating tempera-
ture (59–86 °F, 15–30 °C) before using it.

When installing the analyzer in its permanent location, place the reagent pack according to these guide-
lines.

 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 18 inches
(0.45 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 MICRO-

BUBBLES 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.

System Overview and Installation 2-23

Connect the reagent pack as follows.

1. Open the plastic bag located in the accessory box, and take out the six 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
 Orange = Lyse 2
 White = Rinse

3. Locate a set of six identical tubing connectors, each with about 2 inches of tubing attached.
Connect the free end of one tube to the Diluent outlet. Continue on to connect one tube to each
open outlet.
4. Connect each color tube to its matching color outlet. The connectors should snap into each
other when properly connected.
5. Open the reagent pack box. Open each reagent container (lyse, lyse 2, rinse, cleaner, and dilu-
ent) by unscrewing the container caps and piercing the bottle top seals.
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 con-
nector on the appropriate container. Press each tube onto its connector as far as it will go.
8. Connect the tube that has an orange-colored band to the lyse 2 bottle cap.

2-24 System Overview and Installation

 CAUTION: Make sure the small air vent on each container cap is not blocked,
and that free airflow is maintained at all times.

CAUTION: 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.

CAUTION: 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.

Note: The diluent bottle included with each reagent pack is designed to be
used as the waste container for the subsequent reagent pack.

2.4.8 Connecting the Waste Bottle

A temporary waste bottle is provided with your new VetScan HM5. After using the first pack of
reagents, be sure to empty and then discard this container according to your local waste disposal regu-
lations. The empty diluent container from the old reagent pack will serve as the next waste container.

System Overview and Installation 2-25

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 HM5” on page 2-28.

2.5.2 Turning the Analyzer Off

CAUTION: Never switch the analyzer off 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.

2-26 System Overview and Installation

If the Analyzer Will Not Be Used for 72 Hours or More
Shut down the instrument as follows.
1. Touch Exit on the Home screen.
2. Select Shutdown, then touch Yes 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.

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 2-8) and 100 ml of distilled water for this procedure.
1. Touch Exit on the Home screen.
2. Touch Preparing for shipment, then touch Yes to confirm.
The display then shows Pneumatic system is initializing. Please wait.
3. Follow the instructions that appear on the display. When prompted, remove the five reagent
tubing connectors (green, yellow, blue, white, and orange) from the reagent tubing intake
valves, but leave the waste tubing (red) connected.
4. When prompted, connect the cleaning tube kit to the reagent
connectors, as shown.

System Overview and Installation 2-27

5. When prompted, 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.

8. Press Accept.
9. When the analyzer displays Now it is safe to turn off the instrument, turn off the analyzer using
the power switch on its rear panel.
10. Disconnect the waste tubing. The analyzer is now ready for shipment or extended non-use.

11. If you need to prepare the analyzer for shipment, continue with the instructions in “Preparing
the Analyzer for Shipment” on page 9-13.

2.6 Initializing the VetScan HM5

Use this procedure to initialize the VetScan HM5 after installation, or after it has been turned back on
after an extended shutdown.

1. Touch Measure, then touch Run.

2. When prompted, touch OK to run a blank.
The analyzer then initializes its pneumatic system and runs a blank
measurement. When the process is complete, the instrument displays
the result of the blank measurement.

2-28 System Overview and Installation

3. When the blank measurement is OK, touch Accept.
The analyzer then displays a sample measurement screen, as shown,
and is now ready to perform an analysis.

Note: You will be notified if the blank does not fall within specifications
(these are listed on page 4-7). If this occurs, run one to three cleaning
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 Support” on page 1-3.

4. Verify the analyzer’s system settings, and make any needed changes — see “Configuring the
VetScan HM5” on page 3-1.
5. If you are installing a new system, or have moved the analyzer or its reagent pack to new loca-
tions, recalibrate the fluid sensors to maximize the number of tests performed per reagent pack
on your system — see “Fluid Sensor Settings” on page 3-10.
6. Allow the analyzer and its reagents to fully reach room temperature (usually about five min-
utes) before beginning an analysis. This will avoid damage from condensation caused by rapid
temperature changes, as well as interference and background “noise” caused by micro-bubbles
in the reagents during installation.

System Overview and Installation 2-29

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 darkened “Ready” screen. The analyzer can remain in standby
for up to 72 hours.

To bring the analyzer out of standby, simply touch the screen.

Change the standby time as follows.

1. From the Home screen, touch Settings > General Settings.

2. Touch Standby time.

3. Enter the standby time in minutes.
4. Touch Accept.

Note: Screen saver time is not the same as standby time: the screen
saver only darkens the analyzer screen, while standby also
drains some of the analyzer’s tubing in preparation for inac-
tivity.

2-30 System Overview and Installation

Section 3 Configuring the
VetScan HM5
This section describes how to configure the VetScan HM5 for
optimal performance and to meet your particular lab require-
ments.

3.1 Printer Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

3.1.1 Selecting a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
3.1.2 Configuring the Printout Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
3.1.3 Set the Printout Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3.1.4 Formatting the Header . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3.1.5 Printout Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
3.1.6 Troubleshooting Printer Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
3.2 Operational Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
3.2.1 General Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
3.2.2 Measurement Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
3.3 Date and Time Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
3.4 Fluid Sensor Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

Configuring the VetScan HM5 3-1

3.1 Printer Settings
Before printing, be sure to configure the analyzer’s printer settings.

The following table summarizes these print settings. These settings are usually configured whenever
the analyzer is first set up, or when a different printer is to be used.)

Setting Description
Device Printer: select Built-in printer or USB (printer model may be displayed)
Mode: speed and color of printing (Normal print mode or Draft print mode)
Paper (size): paper size loaded in USB printer, or Rollpaper for built-in
Printout VS Separate Page: allows VS results to print to a separate page
Unit: measurement units for margins
Top margin: top margin size
Left margin: left margin size
Format Limits: prints normal ranges
(enables/disables Warnings: prints warning flags
features)
Histograms: prints histograms
Technical information: prints technical information for sample run
Diagnostic flags: prints flags for certain clinical states
Logo: prints clinic logo in header of reports
Auto print: automatically prints results after each analysis
Header Enter up to 8 lines of clinic or other info to include in printout header

3.1.1 Selecting a Printer

1. From the Home screen, touch Settings > Printer > Device.
2. Touch the Printer field to select the Built-in or USB printer.
3. For a USB printer, touch the Mode field to select Normal print
mode or Draft print mode. Normal print mode is optimal.

4. For a USB printer, touch the Paper field to select the paper size
installed in the printer: A4, Letter, Legal, or Exec.
5. Press Accept.

3-2 Configuring the VetScan HM5

The following table lists available printer selections, along with language and models for each.
Table 3-1: Compatible Printers

Printer Selection Printer Language Supported Printer Models

Seiko LPTH245 Built in Special printer VetScan HM5 built-in thermal printer
language
HP OfficeJet PCL3 HP OfficeJet series and compatibles
HP DeskJet PCL3 HP DeskJet series (select models only)

Note: Other HP printers may function with the HM5, but have not been
validated. For current information, contact Abaxis Technical Sup-
port — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-3.

3.1.2 Configuring the Printout Format

1. From the Home screen, touch Settings > Printer > Printout.
2. To print the VS2 and HM5 results on separate pages, set VS Sep-
arate Page to Enable. To print combined results on a single
page, set this to Disable.
3. Touch the Unit field to select Inch or Cm for margin sizes.
4. Touch the Top margin and Left margin fields to enter those mar-
gin sizes using the onscreen keyboard.

Note: When using a USB printer, Abaxis recommends using top and left mar-
gins of 0.5 inch (1.3 cm). (The optimum setting when combining with
VetScan chemistry results is 0.5 inch [1.3 cm]).

5. Touch Accept.

Configuring the VetScan HM5 3-3

3.1.3 Set the Printout Format
1. From the Home screen, touch Settings > Printer > Format.
2. Touch the fields to enable or disable the following:
 Limits (normal ranges)
 Warnings (sample warning flags)
 Histograms
 Technical information (technical sample run information)
 Diagnostic flags (for certain clinical states)
 Logo
 Auto print (prints every result automatically)

Note: When using a USB printer, Abaxis recommends enabling Auto print,
Warning, and Histograms.

If combining results with the VS2, however, always disable Auto print.

3. Touch Accept.

3.1.4 Formatting the Header

1. From the Home screen, touch Settings > Printer > Header.
2. Use the Header line fields to enter information to be included in
the header on all printed reports. This information can include
clinic name, address, phone, website, and so on.
3. Touch Accept.

3-4 Configuring the VetScan HM5

3.1.5 Printout Examples

Roll Paper Printout

Report header

Sample ID (assigned
automatically)
Patient information Patient species

Test date & time

(assigned automatically) VetScan HM5 serial number

Report date Reference ranges

heavy line shows location

of test results relative
to reference range
Results falling out
of range high or low
are shown in boxes

lower upper
limit limit

Test parameters inner two lines indicate

upper and lower limits
of normal

Test results

Test result units

WBC histogram

EOS histogram

RBC histogram

PLT histogram

Configuring the VetScan HM5 3-5

Letter-size Printout

Report header

Patient
information

Report time and date

(assigned automatically)
and analyzer serial
number WBC histogram

EOS histogram
Results falling out
of range high or low RBC histogram
are shown in boxes
PLT histogram

Test parameters

Test results
heavy line shows location
of test results relative
Test result units to reference range
Reference ranges

lower upper
limit limit

inner two lines indicate

upper and lower limits
of normal

3-6 Configuring the VetScan HM5

3.1.6 Troubleshooting Printer Settings
Use this table to solve problems related to printer settings.

Problem Possible Causes / Solutions

Incorrect characters appear on the printout. Selected printer type does not match your printer.
Select the correct type in Printer.
Right side of the printed report is missing or Decrease the Left margin and Top margin.
appears on the next line.
End of the printout appears on the next page. • Enter the correct Paper size.
• Try decreasing the Left margin and Top margin.
Another patient report could fit on the page. • Enter the correct Paper size.
• Try increasing 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 VetScan HM5, along with the
screen saver delay, and the date range used for printing combined results.

3.2.1 General Settings

Use the General settings to set up sound options, display language, and exported data format.

1. From the Home screen, touch Settings > General Settings.

2. Touch the Sound field to enable or disable sound.
3. Touch the Language field to select the language used in all ana-
lyzer displays.
4. Touch the Export format field to select a format for exporting
data for external use (see table below).

Configuring the VetScan HM5 3-7

 The following settings are available.

Sound Enables analyzer sound alerts.

Language Selects the language used on all analyzer screens: English (default),
French, German, Italian, or Spanish.
Export format Selects the format for exporting data from the analyzer:
• Simple text is best for easily exporting to programs such as Excel.
• Extended text is best for exporting the technical information, such
as the probe voltages, along with the results.
• Advanced text is best for exporting the technical information, such
as probe voltages and lyse volume, as well as the histogram informa-
tion for each sample.
Screen saver time Sets the time of inactivity after which the screen saver appears (0 is off).
Standby time Sets the time of inactivity after which the analyzer enters standby mode.

5. Touch Accept.

3.2.2 Measurement Settings

Use the Measurement Settings screen to set the measurement units the VetScan HM5 will use.

1. From the Home screen, touch Settings > Measurement.

2. Touch Units.
3. Touch the fields in the Units screen to select units for cell Count,
HGB (hemoglobin), PCT (plateletcrit), and HCT (hematocrit):

Count cells/liter (cells/l), cells/microliter (cells/µl)

HGB grams/liter (g/l), grams/deciliter (g/dl),
millimols/liter (mmol/l)
PCT, HCT percentage (%), absolute (abs)

4. Touch Accept.
5. Touch Normal ranges.
6. Touch the fields in the Normal Ranges screen to select and enter the normal range limits for
the selected species.
7. Touch Accept.
8. Touch Settings.

3-8 Configuring the VetScan HM5

 9. Touch the fields in the Settings screen to enable/disable measure-
ment settings:
 Auto print enables automatic printing of results after each
analysis.
 PC Link enables transmission of results to a computer.
 Auto send enables automatic transmission of results to a
connected computer.
 Barcode enable use of barcodes to enter sample names and
IDs.
 VSx Link enables connection of the HM5 with a VS2 ana-
lyzer.
 VetScan-HM5 combining within sets the date range of combining a VS2 record with an
HM5 record for printing.
 Date format of VetScan must be the same as on the HM5.
10. Touch Accept.

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 Vet-
Scan HM5’s built-in clock and calendar, and the format used to display the date.

1. From the Home screen, touch Settings > Date and Time.
2. Touch Set date and time.
3. Touch the Date and Time fields to enter the correct date and time.
4. Touch Accept.
5. Touch Set format.
6. Touch the Date format and Time format fields to select the appro-
priate date and time formats.
7. Touch Accept.

Configuring the VetScan HM5 3-9

3.4 Fluid Sensor Settings
The fluid sensors allow the VetScan HM5 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 analyzer is moved to a new location
 when the reagent pack is changed, or its location with respect to the analyzer is changed
(height difference or distance to the analyzer changes)
Recalibrate the fluid sensors as follows:

1. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance > Reagent Status.

2. Check to make sure all fluid sensors are turned ON. Touch the
sensor fields as needed to switch any to ON.
3. If you have just replaced a reagent pack, touch Replace.

3-10 Configuring the VetScan HM5

Section 4 Test Procedure and
Interpreting Results
This section describes how to prepare and analyze samples with
the VetScan HM5, 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
4.4 Adjusting the Needle Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
4.5 Adjusting the Lyse Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
4.6 Interpreting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
4.6.1 CBC Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
4.6.2 Histograms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
4.7 Printing and Exporting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4.7.1 Printing Saved Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16
4.7.2 Exporting Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
4.8 Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results . . . . . 4-17
4.8.1 Combining Previously Saved Results . . . . . . . . . 4-17
4.8.2 Combining Results During Testing . . . . . . . . . . 4-17
4.8.3 Printout Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
4.9 Using Prediluted Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
4.10 Interpreting CBC Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23

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 collec-
tion and proper sample handling techniques described in this section.

CAUTION: Use only tubes containing potassium EDTA for CBC analysis.

Note: For multiple tube draws, always fill in this order: 1) red top or tiger
top, 2) green top, 3) lavender top.

4.1.1 Sample Quality

The quality of the blood sample will directly affect the quality of the analysis results. Follow the rec-
ommendations below for optimal results.

 Selecting an anti-coagulant: Use manufactured EDTA lavender-top tubes for blood

storage.
 Remove needle from syringe before dispensing blood into the EDTA tube: Do not
use tuberculin syringes to draw blood samples.
 Filling blood tubes correctly:
 Each tube must be filled to at least half of the stated tube volume to avoid inaccuracy
from improperly diluted potassium EDTA.
 When using homemade containers pre-dosed with potassium EDTA, the final con-
centration of potassium 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 potassium 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 that the cells are evenly mixed throughout 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 micro-bubbles that will cause inaccurate results.

Note: Never use a rocker to mix samples smaller than 1.0 ml.

Note: Rockers alone do not mix samples well. To mix properly, invert each
sample by hand 10 to 15 times immediately after drawing, then invert
10 to 15 times again immediately before running the sample.

Note: Feline samples frequently demonstrate platelet aggregation (clumps).

Vortex mixing for up to 10 seconds can disaggregate these clumps with
no adverse effect on the sample. Some practitioners 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 handling
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 sample within 8 hours.

Note: When analyzing a refrigerated sample, be sure to warm the sample to

room temperature before analysis. Slowly 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, caus-
ing erroneous results. Mix the sample thoroughly again before analy-
sis.

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-3

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 2-17.

Note: Each day, before analyzing samples, perform the procedures in this
section to make sure the instrument is in proper operating condition.

The VetScan HM5 automatically goes into standby mode after a period of standing idle. Touch the
touchscreen 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 surround-
ings as clean as possible.
Sample tube
adaptor

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 or kinked, or trapped between or beneath objects.

4-4 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

 3. Check the reagent tubes (except the red waste tubing) for bubbles or air gaps. A few small
bubbles are normal, but if any large bubbles or gaps are present, prime the affected tubes as
follows.
a. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance >
Reagent status.

b. To prime the tubes for a particular reagent, touch the

Prime button for that reagent, or select Prime All to
prime all reagents.
c. Repeat as needed until all air gaps and large bubbles
are removed from the reagent tubes.
d. If bubbles persist, call Abaxis Technical Support —
see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-3.

Note: Air gaps in the waste tubing (red) are normal.

4.2.3 Run a Blank Measurement

A blank measurement checks the cleanliness of the VetScan HM5’s fluidic system, and is used to estab-
lish 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 analyzer 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 analyzer
displays “BLANK needed” and a new blank is required.

In addition, a new blank must be run each time the analyzer has been
powered off and on again.

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-5

 1. From the Home screen, touch Measure.

2. Touch Run.
3. If a blank is necessary, the Blank Needed screen appears.
If Blank Needed does not appear, go to Section 4.3, “Analyzing a Sample” on page 4-8.
4. Touch OK to confirm and run the blank.

5. Check the results to see whether the blank falls within the acceptable ranges shown in the
following table. If so, press Accept.

4-6 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

6. Check the displayed results to 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
EOS 0 to 0.1x103 cells/µl

 If the values are within the allowed ranges: proceed to step 7, below.
 If the values are not within the allowed ranges (the message “UNSUCCESSFUL
BLANK MEASURE” is displayed):

a. Repeat the measurement by pressing Re-run. Do not accept the blank if the
results are not within the allowable ranges shown above.
b. If the new results are still above the acceptable ranges, inspect and clean the
wash head, run one to three cleaning cycles (see “Cleaning the Aperture” on
page 7-5), then re-run the blank one or more times.
c. If the results still do not fall within the acceptable range, run an enzymatic
cleaning cycle (see “Enzymatic Cleaning” on page 7-4), then re-run the blank.
d. If the results still do not fall within the acceptable range, run a bleach-cleaning
— see “Bleach-Cleaning” on page 7-5.
e. If the problem persists, call Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and
Technical Support” on page 1-3.
7. When the blank measurement is OK, touch Accept. The VetScan HM5 is then ready for
analysis.

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-7

4.3 Analyzing a Sample
Use this general procedure to analyze samples with the VetScan HM5.

1. Prepare a well-mixed, potassium EDTA-preserved sample — see “Collecting and Preparing

Samples” on page 4-2 for details.
2. Select the appropriate sample tube adaptor (color may vary):

Tube adaptor Microtube adaptor Controls/calibrator Vacutainer

(3 ml) adaptor adaptor

3. Place the adaptor into the sample rotor.

Note: Sponge disks are provided for Sponge plate

for microtainer
the microtube adaptor. If you
adaptor
have a very “short” sample,
you can put the sponge disk
into the microtube adaptor to
raise the tube height.

4-8 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

4. From the Home screen, touch Measure, then touch Run.

5. Touch the appropriate fields to enter sample information:

 Select the sample Type.
 Adjust the Sampling depth (needle height) as necessary.
For guidelines, see Section 4.4, “Adjusting the Needle
Height” on page 4-11.

6. Gently mix the sample by inverting the tube 10 to 15 times.

7. Remove the cap from the tube and place the tube into the
sample adaptor as shown at right.
8. Touch Run to begin analyzing the sample.

CAUTION: When using the VetScan HM5, be

sure to keep your hands away
from the sample rotor door after
touching the Run button, to avoid
being pinched by the turning door.

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-9

 Note: When using the VetScan HM5 with the VetS-
can VS2, make sure the Patient ID number on
the VetScan HM5 is the same as the Patient
ID on the VetScan VS2.

Otherwise, the results will not print together.

Note: Make sure the species for the sample — displayed in the upper right cor-
ner of the screen — is correct. The sample will be processed and tested
according to the species selected.

Analysis is complete in less than four minutes. All results and histograms are automatically
saved in the analyzer’s database.
9. When analysis is complete, the analyzer displays all measured
and calculated parameters, as well as the WBC, EOS, RBC, and
PLT histograms:

If the analyzer is not set to print results automatically, press

Print to print the results. (See “Printing and Exporting Results”
on page 4-16 for details.)

Results falling outside of the specified species reference range are marked as follows:
 Results above the reference range are highlighted and marked with a plus sign (+).
 Results below the reference range are highlighted and marked with a minus sign (–).
 Warning and error flags are marked with upper- and lower-case letters at the bottom.
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 4-13.

4-10 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

4.4 Adjusting the Needle Height
Adjust the VetScan HM5’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. From the Home screen, touch Measure > Run.
2. Touch the Sampling depth field and select the appropriate nee-
dle height. The default needle height of 0mm is shown by
dashes (---).

Use the following table as a guide for needle height.

Note: For most situations, the default needle height of 0 mm is appropriate.

Table 5: Needle Heights

Setting and
Needle Height Suitable Situations
A: -2mm Measuring control or short sample
B: --- Default setting E: 15 mm
D: 10 mm
C: 5mm Using a false-bottom tube
C: 5 mm
D: 10mm Have plenty of blood sample
B: 0 mm
E: 15mm Have plenty of blood sample ~3–4 mm
A: –2 mm

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-11

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 1-3. When needed, adjust the lyse vol-
ume as follows.

1. From the Home screen, touch Measure > Run.

2. Touch the Change Lyse field and select the appropriate volume.

Note: The new lyse volume will be used for the current run only, then will
revert to the default setting.

4-12 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

4.6 Interpreting Results
The VetScan HM5 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 shows a set of typical results and histograms:

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-13

4.6.1 CBC Parameters
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) parameters included in the results are useful for assessing the over-
all 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 Parame-
ters” on page 4-23.

4.6.2 Histograms
In 5-part differential mode, histograms display population distributions of each cell type: leukocytes
(white blood cells — WBC), eosinophils (EOS), erythrocytes (red blood cells — RBC), and thrombo-
cytes (platelets — PLT). The histograms show the relative frequency (percentage) of cells on the verti-
cal (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 practitioner
to derive more information about the sample than is displayed by the values alone. The following pages
describe each of the four histograms (WBC, EOS, 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 populations discriminator 1
discriminator 2
sorted by size. Cells larger than discriminator 1 are discriminator 3
WBC
counted as WBCs. Blood includes three WBC popula-
tions:
 Lymphocytes (LYM), shown by the first
peak in the histogram.
33 95 102 400
 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 parame-
ters) 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).

4-14 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

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.

Eosinophil Histogram (EOS)

The distribution of eosinophils is shown by the second
peak in the histogram. The first peak (dotted line) is the
RBC “ghost” and other WBCs.

Red Blood Cell Histogram (RBC)

The distribution of red blood cells normally appears as a
single, steep, bell-shaped 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.

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 begin-
ning 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 histo-

grams results from aggregated (clumped) platelets. This appears as a flattened, lumpy histogram.

Note: Feline samples frequently demonstrate platelet aggregation (clumps).

Careful sample collection and vortex mixing for up to 10 seconds can
avoid or disaggregate clumps with no adverse effect on the sample.

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-15

4.7 Printing and Exporting Results
The analyzer can print a wide range of results, statistics, and settings, and prints analysis results auto-
matically if the Autoprint function is selected (see Table 3-1 on page 3-3). If Autoprint is not selected,
you can print by pressing Print on the results display.

Note: Printouts from the built-in printer last approximately one year. Do not
expose these printouts to heat, or they will deteriorate more rapidly.

To ensure the results remain legible longer, photocopy the printouts

from the built-in printer.

For instructions on connecting and setting up an external printer, see “Printer Settings” on page 3-2.

4.7.1 Printing Saved Results

The VetScan HM5 automatically saves the most recent 5000 test results (record 5001 overwrites
record 1, record 5002 overwrites record 2, and so on). For more information about saved results, see
“Database Table” on page 6-2.

1. Press Database in the Home screen.

2. If needed, use the triangle buttons to scroll through the list and
display the result to print.
3. Touch to select (check) the records to print.
4. Touch Print.
5. When printing multiple records: touch Result by Result.

4-16 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

4.7.2 Exporting Results
You can export results to a computer through the VetScan HM5’s USB Type B port, using a software
interface developed specially to communicate with the analyzer. Results can also be exported to
AbaxisLab software, a software package for archiving and printing results from Abaxis instruments.
For availability, check with Abaxis Technical Support (see page 1-3) or your data management system
(DMS) provider.

 To export a saved result, touch the Database button, select the result, then touch
Send Selected Records in the Database menu.

Note: Abaxis does not create interface programs for data management soft-
ware, 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 1-3.

4.8 Combining Chemistry and Hematology Results

The VetScan HM5 can print results transmitted from a connected VetScan VS2 analyzer. The VetScan
HM5 can print the results from the other analyzer only, or the combined results for a given patient ID.
(For connection instructions, see “Connecting the VetScan HM5 to a VetScan VS2 Analyzer” on
page 2-20.)

Printing VetScan VS2 results requires the VetScan HM5 to be configured as described in “General Set-
tings” on page 3-7. This is normally done on installation. If you have questions, contact Abaxis Techni-
cal Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-3.

4.8.1 Combining Previously Saved Results

Transmitting Results from the VS2 to the HM5

When transmitting results from the VS2 to the HM5, be sure to select Analyzer Printer on the VS2,
and remove the VS2 printer paper from its built-in printer to avoid errors.

To transmit, uncheck Print and check Xmit in theVS2’s Print Result screen. For details, see the VS2
user's manual or contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on
page 1-3.

4.8.2 Combining Results During Testing

1. Use a USB cable to connect the printer to the VetScan HM5.
2. Turn on the printer, then turn on the analyzers.

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-17

 3. Make sure the VetScan HM5 uses the same date format as the VetScan VS2 — see “Date and
Time Settings” on page 3-9.
4. Configure the VetScan HM5’s printer settings as follows (see “Printer Settings” on page 3-2
for instructions):
a. Touch Settings > Printer > Device, then set Printer to USB.
b. Exit to the Settings screen.
c. Touch Measurement > Settings, then set Auto Print to Disabled.
5. Configure the VetScan HM5’s measurement settings as follows (see “General Settings” on
page 3-7):
a. From the Home screen, touch Settings > Measurement > Settings.
b. Set Auto print to Disabled.
c. Set PC Link to Disabled.
d. Set Auto Send and VetScan-HM5 combining within as preferred.
e. Set the Date format to match that of the VS2.
6. To print a VetScan VS2 result only:

Note: Be sure to set VetScan-HM5 combining within the time frame so that
no matching record will exist in the VetScan HM5. For example, if a
VetScan analysis was run for a given patient 5 days ago, you would set
VetScan-HM5 combining within to 4 days or less to exclude any ear-
lier records.

As long as no matching VetScan record exists, the VS2 results will print. If there is a VS2
result but no HM5 result, the VS2 results will print in the HM5 format.

Note: If you run HM5 and VS2 analyses for the same patient on the same day
and want to print only the HM5 results, you can change the patient ID
on the VetScan HM5 so that there will be no matching record.

7. To print combined VetScan HM5 and VS2 results:

Note: The Patient ID of the VetScan HM5 record must match the Patient ID
field of the VS2 record.

Start the CBC first, and then run the chemistry rotor.

4-18 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

 When the rotor finishes, the VS2 automatically transmits the results to the VetScan HM5,
and the VetScan HM5 prints out the combined results.

4.8.3 Printout Examples

Built-in Printout — VetScan VS2 Chemistry Results

Patient species
Patient information

VetScan information

Test results

Test parameters Test result units

Reference ranges
Test quality
indicators (rotor QC,
interfering substances)

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-19

Built-in Printout — VetScan HM5 + VetScan VS2 Chemistry Results

Report header

Patient species
Patient information

VetScan HM5 serial number

Sample ID (assigned
Report date automatically)

Test date & time Reference ranges

(dates and times
assigned automatically)
heavy line shows location
of test results relative
to reference range
Results falling out
of range are shown
in boxes

lower upper
limit limit
Test parameters
inner two lines indicate
Test results upper and lower limits
of normal
WBC histogram
Test result units

EOS histogram

RBC histogram

PLT histogram

VetScan results

4-20 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

8 x 11.5 Letter Printout — VetScan HM5 + VetScan VS2 Chemistry Results

Report header Sample ID

(assigned automatically)

Patient
information Report date
(assigned
Patient automatically)
species and analyzer
serial number

WBC histogram
Test
parameters

EOS histogram

RBC histogram

Test results
and unit

Reference PLT histogram

ranges

VetScan
results

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-21

4.9 Using Prediluted Mode
The VetScan HM5 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, call Abaxis Technical Support — see
“Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-3.

Perform an external predilution of the sample using VetScan HM5 reagent diluent, or an isotonic saline
solution. Make sure the diluent or saline is at room temperature before performing the dilution.

Dilute the sample by a 1:6 ratio (add 1 part sample to 5 parts diluent) — for example, 50 μl sample to
250 μl diluent or saline. Mix well.

Note: The VetScan HM5 must be calibrated for prediluted mode before ana-
lyzing samples. The analyzer is calibrated at installation, and can be
recalibrated as described in “Calibration” on page 5-2 (select Predi-
luted blood (1:6) as the calibrator).

After the dilution, perform a QC run for the 1:6 diluted quality control
blood. Use diluent or normal saline to dilute the control blood. See
“Performing Quality Control” on page 5-6 for instructions.

Perform the analysis as follows.

1. From the Home screen, touch Measure > Run.

2. Enter needed sample information.
3. Touch the Prediluted field to select Yes.
4. Touch Run.
5. The analyzer remains in prediluted mode until Normal mode is
selected again.

4-22 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

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 leukemia • Endotoxemia
• Hypoadrenocorticism • Hyperadrenocorticism
• Stress-related corticoste-
roid 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: up to
50% bands, neutro-
philia, absence of
myelocytes/metamy-
elocytes
• 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,
often 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

Test Procedure and Interpreting Results 4-23

 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 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 • Decrease: iron-deficiency anemia
• Normal MCV is consistent with non-regen-
erative anemia, often due to chronic dis-
ease. MCV should always be interpreted in
light of other clinical data.
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- • In the anemic state, normal MCHC (with
Mean Corpuscular age RBC normal MCV) is consistent with non-regen-
Hemoglobin • MCHC = MCH / MCV (in grams of erative anemia due to chronic disease.
Concentration HGB per 100 ml RBCs) • Decrease: hypochromasia common in iron-
deficiency anemia and reticulocytosis.
RDW Measure of red blood cell anisocytosis • Elevated RDW is typically indicative of
Red Cell Distribution (cell size variation) anisocytosis. In the anemic state,
Width increased RDW with an associated
increase in MCV can indicate increased
levels of immature RBCs.

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
• Liver disease
• Parasites
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.

4-24 Test Procedure and Interpreting Results

Section 5 Calibration and
Quality Control
This section describes the calibration and quality control proce-
dures for the VetScan HM5.

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
5.1.5 Resetting Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
5.2 Performing Quality Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
5.2.1 Required Quality Control Materials . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
5.2.2 Entering Quality Control Values Manually or
from a USB Pen Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
5.2.3 Entering Control Values using a
2D Barcode Reader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
5.2.4 Running a QC Sample. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
5.2.5 Monitoring Quality Control Values Over Time . . 5-9
5.2.6 Viewing the Accepted QC Database . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Calibration and Quality Control 5-1

5.1 Calibration
5.1.1 When to Calibrate
The VetScan HM5 is factory-calibrated for optimal performance. In the following situations, a fine-
tuning calibration can be done (using three measures of calibrator material):

 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 normal control.

WARNING: THE CALIBRATION PROCEDURE REQUIRES A SPECIAL CONTROL

MATERIAL DERIVED FROM HUMAN SOURCES. OBSERVE UNIVERSAL
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN HANDLING THE CONTROL.

5-2 Calibration and Quality Control

5.1.3 Calibration Procedure

WARNING: WE RECOMMEND WEARING LATEX GLOVES DURING THIS PROCE-

DURE.

Note: Make sure to bring the normal control up to room temperature before
beginning this procedure.

1. From the Home screen, touch

Maintenance, then touch
Calibration.

2. Touch Measure.
3. If the sample is prediluted (most are not), touch the Prediluted
field to select Yes. Otherwise, leave this field set to No.
4. If the control vial is full, leave Sampling depth at its default (---).
If the control vial is low, change the Sampling Depth to -2 mm.
5. Touch Accept.

Note: You must recalibrate the analyzer if you switch between whole blood
and prediluted modes.

Calibration and Quality Control 5-3

 6. Touch the appropriate fields and enter the assay values for each
parameter from the calibrator package insert.
7. Touch Accept.

8. Mix the normal control by gently inverting the tube between thumb and forefinger 10 to
15 times. Remove the tube cap.
9. Place the normal control into the control tube adaptor.
10. Touch Run.
When analysis is complete, the display will show the results.
11. Remove the tube from the adaptor, and mix by gently inverting the tube between thumb and
forefinger 10 to 15 times.
12. Replace the normal control vial in the control vial adaptor, and touch Run.
When the second analysis is complete, the results will be displayed.
13. Remove the tube from the adaptor, and mix by gently inverting the tube between thumb and
forefinger 10 to 15 times.
14. Replace the normal control vial in the control vial adaptor, and touch Run.
When the third analysis is complete, the results will be displayed.
15. Touch Evaluate to see the calculated Calibration factors.
16. Touch Accept to accept the new calibration factors. The instrument is now calibrated.
17. Touch Exit.

5-4 Calibration and Quality Control

 Note: To complete the calibration, touch Accept after each measurement.
When all three measurements are accepted, the analyzer calculates
and displays the new calibration factors. Calibration factors must be
between 0.8 and 1.2, inclusive, to be acceptable.

If the analyzer displays the message 1 or more of your factors are out
of range, call Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Techni-
cal Support” on page 1-3.

5.1.4 Viewing Calibration History

All calibration times and the settings used are logged and saved, and can be viewed as follows:

1. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance > Calibration > His-
tory.

5.1.5 Resetting Calibration

If calibration fails repeatedly, use the Reset Calibration function to bring the analyzer’s calibration
closer to factory settings.

1. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance > Calibration >

Reset calibration factors.

2. Touch OK.
3. Calibrate the analyzer twice following the instructions in
Section 5.1.3, “Calibration Procedure,” on page 5-3.

Calibration and Quality Control 5-5

5.2 Performing Quality Control
The VetScan HM5 is programmed to monitor a single type of quality control (QC) material in three
levels: high, normal and low. You should perform QC determinations regularly to verify continued
optimal performance.

We recommend testing control material each time the reagent pack is changed, or otherwise approxi-
mately once per month. Also, perform a quality control measure after each service. The analyzer stores
all QC results — except for discarded results — in its internal database.

5.2.1 Required Quality Control Materials

The quality control procedure requires at least one of the following materials:

 High control
 Low control
 Normal control

5.2.2 Entering Quality Control Values Manually or from a USB Pen Drive
Use this procedure to enter the quality control (QC) and gap values manually or from a USB pen drive.

Note: You can also enter all control values at once from a 2D barcode scan-
ner. See Section 5.2.3, “Entering Control Values using a 2D Barcode
Reader” on page 5-8.

1. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance > Quality Control.

The Quality control screen includes buttons for QC levels

QC Low, QC Normal, and QC High. You can use any of these
buttons for any QC level, but Abaxis recommends using them as
follows:
 QC Normal for normal controls (required)

 QC Low for low-level controls (optional)

 QC High for high-level controls (optional)

The optional high- and low-level controls are intended for partic-
ularly stringent regulatory environments.

5-6 Calibration and Quality Control

2. Touch QC Low, QC Normal, or QC High.

Note: The analyzer requires you to perform at least one level of QC, but you
can perform up to three.

3. Touch References.
4. If you are loading control values manually: from the package insert, enter the appropriate
lot number, expiration date, assay values, and gap ranges. Use the right and left arrows to
view all the parameters.
5. If you are loading control values from a USB pen drive:

Note: The USB pen drive must contain the appropriate .ini file for the lot
number. You can download these files from www.abaxis.com.

a. Touch the Lot field and enter the lot number.

b. Insert the USB pen drive into a USB port on the analyzer.
c. Touch Load.
4. Press Accept.

Calibration and Quality Control 5-7

5.2.3 Entering Control Values using a 2D Barcode Reader
You can use a 2D barcode reader to enter all control values at once from the HM5 control values sheet.
Information on supported readers is available from www.abaxis.com.

1. Plug in the 2D barcode reader. The reader may beep to indicate it is active.
2. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance > Quality Control.

3. Touch Load DataMatrix.

4. Scan the barcode on the HM5 control values sheet. For best
results, hold the scanner 8-12 inches from the barcode on the
sheet.
5. Touch Accept.

5.2.4 Running a QC Sample

Note: Before running this procedure, make sure the control vials have had
time to reach room temperature.

1. Mix the control vial by gently inverting the tube between thumb and forefinger 10 to 15
times, and remove its cap.
2. Put the control vial onto the control vial adaptor on the sample rotor.
3. Touch Measure > Run to start the analysis.

5-8 Calibration and Quality Control

 4. The analyzer displays Quality Control as the sample Mode.

Results are automatically saved in the QC database,

Note: Any values that are out of range are highlighted.

5. Abaxis strongly recommends performing at least one successful QC run after calibrat-
ing the instrument or changing the reagent pack.

5.2.5 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 VetScan HM5 allows you to do this easily using a database table
and histograms.

Calibration and Quality Control 5-9

5.2.6 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. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance > Quality Control >
History.

5-10 Calibration and Quality Control

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

Managing the Database 6-1

6.1 Database Overview
The analyzer can store up to 5000 complete test results in its internal database. Results are stored
chronologically by date and time. (When more than 5000 measurements are stored, the most recent
result replaces the oldest result.) Users can retrieve these results anytime.

6.2 Database Table

To access the Database table, touch Database on the Home screen.
The first screen shows a table of the most recently saved tests.

You can view and work with the results in this screen as follows:
 Each data record starts with a checkbox selector, and displays
the Patient ID and record date. To select a record, touch its
checkbox: the box is then checked, as shown on the right.
 Some buttons (such as Print, Trends, and Manage) are
grayed out and unavailable when no records are selected.
 Detail displays all data (parameters, histograms, flags) for the top (most recent) selected
record.
 Print sends the selected results to the printer. Touch Print > Print result by result
to print each result with its sample information, CBC values, and histograms.

6-2 Managing the Database

 Filter lets you select records from the database by date range,
Sample ID, Patient ID, or sample type.
 Trends provides a statistical tool that can monitor parameter
variations over time in the selected records. This offers an
ideal tool for tracking the parameters of a specific patient.
 Manage provides a menu where data can be deleted, archived,
or transmitted to a computer.
 Use and 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
• 22 CBC parameters • Sex

 Use and to move through individual results.

 Select patient results by touching the checkbox to the left of each record on the touch-
screen. (Each checkbox is then filled.)

Managing the Database 6-3

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
7.1.4 Enzymatic Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
7.2 Cleaning the Aperture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
7.3 Bleach-Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
7.4 Shut-Down Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
7.5 Changing the Reagent Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
7.6 Running the Self Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
7.7 Running the 5 Cycle Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
7.8 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 analyzer 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 optimal
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 tubing for kinks, pinches, abnormalities, yellow discoloration, 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 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 displays
this message on the bottom of its screen saver:

It is time to clean the needle wash head.

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. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance > Cleaning > Clean the wash head.
2. Open the door on the right side of the instrument.

The wash head’s location is shown on the right.

3. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and warm distilled water to gently rub
the lower surface of the wash head to remove any salt build-up.

4. When finished, close the side door, then touch Accept.

Once this procedure is complete, the screen saver reminder disappears, and reappears after one
week.

Maintenance & Service 7-3

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.

Note: Step 4 can be skipped if the reagent pack is changed monthly.

4. Clean the entire pneumatic system (tubes, valves, chamber, and aperture) with a “Prime all”
cycle:
a. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance.

b. Touch Reagent Status.

c. Touch Prime all.

The analyzer then performs its priming process, including cleaning.

7.1.4 Enzymatic Cleaning

Perform an enzymatic cleaning after approximately every 100 tests, and whenever changing the
reagent pack. This process cleans all surfaces that contact blood samples.

1. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance.

2. Touch Cleaning.
3. Touch Enyzmatic Cleaning.
4. Place an EDTA tube with approximately 300 µl of VetScan Enzymatic Cleaner (concentrate)
into the sample holder.
5. Touch OK.
The cleaning cycle lasts 3 minutes.

7-4 Maintenance & Service

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. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance.

2. Touch Cleaning.

3. Touch Automatic self-cleaning.

The analyzer then performs its cleaning process, and returns to
the Maintenance menu when finished.

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:
 VetScan HM5 cleaning tube (shown on page 2-8)
 household-strength chlorine bleach (typically 5–6% hypocholorite) — at least 5 ml
 distilled water — at least 195 ml

Maintenance & Service 7-5

 1. Prepare a 5% bleach solution using 5 ml of bleach and 95 ml of distilled water (for a final
concentration of 0.25% hypocholorite).
In addition to the bleach solution, you will need at least 100 ml of distilled water for rinsing.
2. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance.
3. Touch Cleaning.

4. Touch Bleaching.
5. When prompted, disconnect the reagent tubing from the reagent
inlets (diluent, lyse, lyse 2, cleaner, and rinse) on the back of the
analyzer, but leave the waste tubing connected.
6. Press OK to continue.

Note: If you do not have the cleaning tubing, leave the reagent tubing
connected to the analyzer, and instead disconnect the rinse, lyse,
lyse 2, diluent, and cleaner bottle caps from the reagent bottles,
and submerge all four tubes into the bleach solution — see
step 8. Make twice as much 5% bleach solution (200 ml), and
run the bleach cycle twice to ensure that all the fluid flows
through the analyzer.

7-6 Maintenance & Service

7. When prompted, connect the cleaning tube kit to
the reagent inputs as shown.

(Tubing connectors may also be present — not

shown on the right.)

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

solution.

9. Touch Accept.
10. When prompted, disconnect the cleaning tube (leaving the waste tubing connected), then
touch 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 distilled water,
as shown in step 8.
12. Touch Accept.
13. When prompted, disconnect the cleaning tube (leaving the waste tubing connected), then
touch Accept.
14. When prompted, select from the following options as needed:
 To install a new reagent pack, touch NEW.
 To reconnect the old reagents, touch OLD.
 To turn off the analyzer, touch STOP.

Maintenance & Service 7-7

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 2-26.

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, lyse 2, 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. Loosen the caps on the containers in the new reagent pack.
5. Loosen the caps (with tubing still attached) on the containers in the old reagent pack (includ-
ing the waste container).
6. Use a lint-free wipe moistened with distilled water to clean and connect each reagent drop-
down tube as follows:
a. Grasp the cap containing the reagent tube, and pull it up and out of the old reagent bot-
tle.

b. Use the damp lint-free wipe to remove any lint or dirt from the drop-down tube con-
nected to the inside of the cap.

c. Place the tube into the appropriate color-coded bottle in the new reagent pack.

7. Re-cap the used reagents with their original caps, and dispose of them in an environmentally
appropriate manner. Save the used diluent container to use as the next waste container.

7-8 Maintenance & Service

8. Prime the tubing for all reagents:
a. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance > Reagent
status.

b. Make sure all sensors are ON, and touch to turn on any that
are off.

c. Touch Replace > Change pack.

The analyzer updates the installation date, reagent lifetime,

and amount of reagent in each container.

Note: If you selected NEW at the last step of the bleach-cleaning,

reagent status will be automatically reset to100% for each
reagent.

9. Recalibrate the fluid sensors to obtain the maximum number of tests per pack. (Calibration is
especially necessary if the new pack is placed in a different location than the old one.)
To calibrate the fluid sensors, see “Fluid Sensor Settings” on page 3-10.
10. Run a quality control procedure using a normal control — see “Performing Quality Control”
on page 5-6.

Note: Before disposing of waste from the VetScan HM5, consult your
local waste disposal regulations and the VetScan HM5 reagent
MSDS for recommendations.

Maintenance & Service 7-9

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. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance > Diagnostics.

2. Touch 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.

Note: If the Overall result displayed is Errors, call Abaxis Technical

Support — see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-3.

7.7 Running the 5 Cycle Cleaning

In 5 cycle cleaning, the analyzer performs measuring cycles continuously without a sample (blank
measurements). This verifies the function of the fluidic and pneumatic systems, and also provides
information about stability, cleanliness, Hgb readings, and PLT readings as a measure of analyzer func-
tion.

To pass this test, results should match an acceptable blank run (see page 4-5). Consult technical sup-
port if the results do not become acceptable within 5–10 cycles.

1. From the Home screen, touch Maintenance > Cleaning.

2. Touch Cleaning 5 Cycles.

To exit before all 5 cycles are complete, touch Abort. The analyzer then stops after the cur-
rent cycle is complete.

7-10 Maintenance & Service

7.8 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 ana-
lyzer 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 Technical
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 1-3.

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 peristaltic

pump at the lower left of the rear compartment. Discon-
nect 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

Maintenance & Service 7-11

 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. Oth-
erwise, 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 clockwise
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 connec-

tors: white to white, green to green.

8. Wipe up any spilled fluids from the base of the instrument.

9. Close the rear door.

7-12 Maintenance & Service

Section 8 Special Functions
This section describes special functions you can use in operating
the instrument.

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 the Normal Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

Special Functions 8-1

8.1 Viewing the Software Version
 To view the software version number: from the Home
screen, touch Maintenance > Diagnostics > Device infor-
mation.

8.2 Viewing Status Information

 To view device statistics — number of
analyses performed, clogs, and errors, and
other information that may be useful for
technical service: from the Home screen,
touch Maintenance > Diagnostics > Sta-
tistics.

8-2 Special Functions

  To view the status of the reagent pack: from the Home
screen, touch Maintenance > Reagent status.

8.3 Updating the Software

From time to time, Abaxis will send you an updated version of software on a USB pen drive. Update
from the flash drive as follows.
1. Power off the analyzer.
2. Plug in the USB pen drive containing the software.
3. Power on the analyzer, and follow the instructions that appear on the analyzer’s screen.
4. When prompted, unplug the USB drive and restart the analyzer.
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 1-3. 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 the Normal Range
To customize the normal range for particular species, proceed as follows:

1. From the Home screen, touch Settings.

2. Touch Measurement.
3. Touch Normal Ranges. The normal ranges of the selected species are then displayed.
4. Touch the Type field and select the species whose normal range you want to edit.
5. Touch the appropriate fields to change limits as needed.
6. Touch Accept.

8-4 Special Functions

Section 9 Troubleshooting
Use the information in this section to help diagnose and solve
problems with the VetScan HM5.

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
9.2 Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
9.3 Evaluating Unexpected Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
9.3.1 Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
9.4 Preparing the Analyzer for Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-13

Troubleshooting 9-1
9.1 Warning Indicators
This section lists warning indicators (flags) that can appear in test results, along with possible solutions
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, perform 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 1-3.

9.1.2 Measurement Conditions

Warning flags are grouped according to measurement conditions and problems with the sample.
 c, C, q, Q, and Y 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, B, and X 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. Run a quality control to verify
that the analyzer is accurate (see “Performing Quality Control” on page 5-6). Contact
Abaxis Technical Support for help with very high count samples (800-822-2947, or see
page 1-3).
 Z is caused by a possible lysing problem. Make sure there is adequate lyse 2 reagent in
the container, and prime if needed (see “Check Reagent Status and Tubing” on page 4-4).

An asterisk (*) near a parameter indicates uncertainty. A variety of causes are possible. See
Section 9.1.4, “Results Flags,” on page 9-3 for further details on the flags.

If a result warning flag is present, refer to “Results Flags” on page 9-3 for possible causes and solu-
tions.

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.

9-2 Troubleshooting
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.

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 WBC
(unable to report a WBC count is outside normal limits.
differential) • Possible lyse problem. Prime lyse and repeat the blank.
H HGB blank is high, or no • Possible interference. Make sure the side door is closed, and
HGB blank repeat the blank measurement.
• Possible bubbles in the WBC chamber. Check the connections
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, clean the wash head, perform 3 to 5 auto self-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 electrical noise interference. Be sure to use an uninter-
ruptable power supply (UPS). Repeat the blank.
M, N Linearity error, or WBC • The results are out of the linearity range. Make a dilution with an
coincidence is too high external method to achieve 1:6 dilution rate, and run again. (1:6
calibration should be current.) If the WBC histogram is oddly
shaped, check the lyse tubing to make sure the lyse is flowing
properly.
• 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 Tech-
nical Support — see page 1-3.
• Low-temperature reagents (mainly diluent) can cause this. Be
sure to allow reagents to reach room temperature.
p PLT blank is high, or no • Clean the wash head. If the problem persists, perform 3 to 5
PLT blank auto self-cleaning cycles and repeat the blank measurement.
• If the flag persists, run a bleaching cycle.
• Possible reagent contamination or system cleanliness problem.
If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support before
changing the pack — see page 1-3.
b RBC blank is high, or no • Check to see if wash head needs cleaning. If cleaning is
RBC blank needed, clean the wash head, perform 3 to 5 auto self-cleaning
cycles, then repeat the blank measurement.
• If the blank is too high, perform a bleach cleaning, then repeat
the blank measurement.
• Possible reagent contamination or system cleanliness problem.
If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support before
changing the reagent pack — see page 1-3.

Troubleshooting 9-3
 Table 9-1: Result Warning Flags
Flag Meaning Description / Recommended action
m Linearity error, or RBC/ • Results are out of linearity range. contact Abaxis Technical Sup-
PLT coincidence is too port — see page 1-3. Run a control cycle.
high
c RBC/PLT clogging • Low-temperature reagents (mainly diluent) can cause this. Be
sure to allow reagents to reach room temperature.
• Aperture clogging. Run auto self-cleaning 3 to 5 times, then
repeat the measurement. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis
Technical Support — see page 1-3.
L Potential lyse-resistant • Re-run the sample at a higher lyse volume (call Technical Sup-
RBCs or RBC ghosts or port) or perform a smear to examine the cells.
pathological condition in
canine samples
W Extremely large cells • Abnormally high number of very large cells in feline samples.
This may indicate clumping of cells or a pathological condition.
• Vortex sample for 5–10 seconds at high speed and re-run. Per-
form manual smear to examine cells.
X EOS blank is high • Check whether the wash head needs cleaning. If needed, clean
the wash head and repeat the blank measurement.
• If the blank is too high, perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and
repeat the blank measurement.
• This flag can be caused by previously frozen reagents. Discard
the reagents, rinse the analyzer thoroughly with distilled water
using the bleaching cycle, and contact Abaxis Technical Support
— see page 1-3.
Y EOS clogging • Lyse 2 aperture clogging. Perform 3 to 5 cleaning cycles and
repeat the measurement. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis
Technical Support — see page 1-3.
Z Noise in the EOS channel • Possible lysing problem. Make sure there is adequate lyse 2
reagent in the container, and prime if needed (see “Check
Reagent Status and Tubing” on page 4-4).

9-4 Troubleshooting
9.2 Error Messages
Below are a few very common error messages and solutions to the errors.

 Error message: Check Diluent Error (or Lyse, Lyse 2, 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 you find air gaps or numerous or large bub-
bles, check the connections 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 sensor for the reagent is on. If the sensor is off, the sensor button for that
reagent will display Off. In this case, turn the sensor on, then recalibrate all fluid sensors
— see “Fluid Sensor Settings” on page 3-10.
 Check tubing for loose connections or air leaks.

 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. Make sure the tubing in the reagent pack is not kinked.
 Check the tubing inside the instrument for clots, salt crystals, debris, or large air bub-
bles.
 Check for bubbles in the reagent tubing. If bubbles are present, check the connections 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.

Troubleshooting 9-5
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 respec-
tive histograms.

The figure on the right shows a “full-spectrum” histogram, which Discriminators

is pieced together from two of the histograms displayed on the 1 2 3 4
HM5. This full spectrum illustrates relative sizes of the cells in
blood.

The first two discriminators in this example show a clean valley

between 29 and 34, which is ideal. The first discriminator indi-
cates the end of the platelet population (and is not normally dis-
played in the PLT histogram), and the second indicates 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 lyse-resistive RBCs (unbroken or undissolved 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 pro-
cess, 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.

 The EOS histogram (shown at right) over-

EOS
laps in size with the WBC histogram, but
Histogram
its results are derived from a different mea-
surement. The EOS histogram displays
leukocytes that have not been lysed by the
lyse 2 reagent (eosinophils). Lysed WBCs
and lysed RBCs appear in the faint peak on EM1 400 fl
78.8 fl
the far left.

9-6 Troubleshooting
9.3.1 Examples

1 — High Blank, Flag X

This flag is seen when the EOS blank is somewhat high, between 0.1 to 0.2.

Evaluation

The EOS histogram shows a large number of cells that may invalidate this blank measurement. EOS
blank values > 0.1 are rejected and prevent blood measurements.
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 Technical
Support” on page 1-3.

Troubleshooting 9-7
2 — EOS clogging, flag Y
A Y flag indicates a clog or partial clog in the aperture during the EOS measurement.

Evaluation

The above histograms indicate the following:

 The clogs are detected through changed in the probe voltages. The probe voltages are
displayed on the upper right of the histograms on the graphs screen.
 Y flag shows at the bottom of the screen.

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. Repeat the sample run after obtaining an acceptable blank.
4. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Technical
Support” on page 1-3.

9-8 Troubleshooting
3 — Noisy EOS channel, flag Z
The Z flag indicates that the measured EOS value is higher than the measured GRA population from
the WBC histogram. This flag can occur if the lyse 2 is contaminated or if there is underlysing in the
lyse 2 lysing step.

Evaluation

The above histograms indicate the following:

 EOS histogram indicates a very large number of cells.
 This flag can appear when control blood is run in the wrong profile or the wrong species
profile is selected.

Troubleshooting 9-9
Solution

1. Make sure the correct species profile is selected for the measurement.
2. If the profile is correct, in very rare cases the sample can contain a rare pathology: perform a
manual smear to confirm the results.
3. If the WBC histogram is shaped normally, the problem is likely underlysing with lyse 2.
Check for bubbles in the lyse 2 tubing and/or sufficient solution in the bottle. Prime lyse 2 if
needed. Replace the reagent pack if the lyse 2 fluid is low.
4. If you run a blank and the EOS value is high, the lyse 2 solution could be contaminated.
Confirm this by re-running the blank. If the EOS blank does not decrease after several clean-
ing cycles, replace the reagent pack after bleaching.
5. If the problem persists, contact Abaxis Technical Support — see “Customer and Technical
Support” on page 1-3.

9-10 Troubleshooting
4 — Lack of Separation between RBC and LYM peaks, flag L
The L flag indicates when there is significant overlap between the RBC and the WBC histogram.

Evaluation

The above histograms indicate the following:

 An obvious peak of RBCs intrudes into the left side of the WBC histogram.
 This flag is often seen when the sample contains lyse-resistant RBCs.

Solution
1. Check the lyse tubing for leaks, then prime if necessary.
2. Contact Abaxis Technical Support (see “Customer and Technical Support” on page 1-3), and
as directed, increase the lyse volume by 0.1 or 0.2 ml to achieve proper lysis of RBCs for this
sample. (Lyse volume returns to default for the next sample.)
3. If the increased lyse volume does not yield a normally shaped WBC histogram, the sample
may contain an underlying pathology. Perform a manual smear to check cell morphology
and differential.

Troubleshooting 9-11
5 — Unusually High Number of Large Cells, flag W
When the WBC histogram indicates a large number of extremely large cells, the sample is flagged W.
The flag may indicate large numbers of highly clumped PLT or a pathological condition.

Evaluation

The above histograms indicate the following:

 Normal WBC histograms should descend to zero near 200 fl, while a W flagged sample
may have a WBC histogram extending to near 400 fl.

Solution

1. Vortex the sample at high speed for 5–10 seconds and re-run the sample. Be sure not to vor-
tex too much as the resulting foam can damage cells and distort cell counts.
2. Perform a manual smear to confirm the presence of the large cells.

9-12 Troubleshooting
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 ana-
lyzer for shipping as follows.

1. Power off the instrument as described on page 2-27.

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 thermal printer paper roll from the built-in printer.
5. Remove the sample adaptor from the sample rotor.
6. Unplug the external power supply, printer cable, and mini-keyboard from the instrument.
7. Open the instrument side door. Wipe up any liquid left inside the instrument.
8. Insert the foam piece in the position shown to
prevent sample needles from sliding.
foam
9. If you received a loaner instrument, transfer
the tape from the loaner instrument's counting
chamber onto the top of your instrument’s tape
counting chamber to protect it from dust.
If you did not receive a loaner instrument, pro-
ceed to the next step.

CAUTION: DO NOT use any other type of tape, as the tape’s adhesive may
damage the counting chamber.

10. Close the side door. Wipe up any liquid left outside of the instrument.
11. 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.
12. Place the HM5’s power supply and power cord properly into the shipping box.
13. Close the box and seal the box using a strong tape.
The instrument is now ready for shipping.

Troubleshooting 9-13
9-14 Troubleshooting
Section 10 Specifications
This section contains technical specifications for the VetScan
HM5 system, and lists its linearity ranges.

10.1 VetScan HM5 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2

10.2 Linearity Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
10.3 Precision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4

Specifications 10-1
10.1 VetScan HM5 Specifications
Sample volume 25 µl of whole blood in three-part mode, 50 µl of whole blood in five-part
mode. 50 µl of whole blood in five-part prediluted mode of 1:6; 25 µl of
prediluted blood in three-part prediluted mode of 1:6.
Chambers 1 unified chamber for diluting whole blood and counting.
Reagent system VetScan HM5 Reagent pack.
Aperture diameter 80 µm.
Throughput 24–30 tests/hour in three-part mode, 16–20 tests/hour in five-part mode.
Sampling method Open tube system with automatic sample rotor, support for all HM2 and
VetScan HM5 test tubes.
Sample types Five-part mode: dog, cat, horse, alpaca, llama, control.
Three-part mode: mouse, rat, rabbit, ferret, pig, cattle, sheep, goat, guinea
pig, primate (primate is research only).
Clog prevention High-voltage pulse on aperture in each analysis cycle, chemical cleaning
and high-pressure back-flush of the aperture using cleaner reagent.
Cleaning procedure High-voltage burn of the aperture, high-pressure back-flush, chemical
cleaning of the aperture.
Quality control Support for five-part differential control blood.
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 Three-measurement automatic or manual calibration of WBC, HGB, RBC,
PLT, MCV, RDW, MPV, and EOS/BAS absolute.
Multi-user feature Three-level multi-user operation with selective privilege levels, user
identification with ID and password. Contact Abaxis for more information.
User interface Easy-to-use, menu-driven touchscreen user interface with on-screen help.
Languages available English, French, German, Italian, Spanish. For other languages, contact
Abaxis Technical Support — see page 1-3.
Data capacity 5000 results, including RBC, PLT, WBC three-part and five-part
histograms on-board. Data can be saved to USB pen drive or downloaded
to computer.
Host computer interface Four USB A ports, one USB B port, and one Ethernet port. Support for
ASCII-based communication protocol only (V3.1).
Data back-up method Port for USB pen drive (flash drive) on side and back panels.
Software upgrade method USB pen drive.
External printer interface USB.
Built-in printer “Easy Paper Operation” built-in thermal printer.
Display 240x128-dot, high-contrast, backlit, graphics liquid crystal diode.
External keyboard Standard USB-compatible keyboard.
Power requirement 12V DC, 5 A, 60 W.
Power supply unit External, auto-ranging power unit for 100–120 or 200–240 VAC, 50–60Hz.
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 27 lbs (12.3 kg).

10-2 Specifications
10.2 Linearity Ranges
The VetScan HM5 is guaranteed to provide specified accuracies within its linearity range when prop-
erly calibrated and maintained. 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 4-22.

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
EOS 0.2–3.0 10.0 109 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
EOS 0.2–3.0 10.0 109 cells/liter
RBC 1–30 40 1012 cells/liter
PLT 100–2000 3000 109 cells/liter

Specifications 10-3
10.3 Precision
The following precision parameters were established using normal level control on one instrument,
with ten replicate measurements performed in one day.

Table 10-3: Control Parameter Precision

Parameter Mean SD %CV

WBC 8.05 0.15 1.89%
RBC 4.49 0.111 2.44%
EOS 5.00 0.07 1.32%
HCT 40.39 1.01 2.51%
HGB 125.66 1.71 1.36
MCV 90.03 0.50 0.56
PLT 248.36 18.30 7.37
MPV 12.69 0.177 1.39%

10-4 Specifications
Appendix A Introduction to
Veterinary
Hematology
This appendix introduces several fundamental concepts of veter-
inary hematology. Having a basic knowledge of these concepts
will help you better understand the results from the analyzer.

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 Eosinophils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-6
A.3.4 Eosinophils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-6
A.4 Normal Hematology Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-8
A.5 Veterinary Hematology References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-10

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 supplies 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, lip-
ids, 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 mech-
anisms 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 diagnosis
and therapy.

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

Normal density 5–12 x 1012 cells/l 6–15 x 109 cells/l 100–700 x109 cells/l

Nucleated? No ** Yes No

Sub-populations GRAnulocytes: 65%

and their RBC: 99.9% NEUtrophil: 60%
percentages EOSinophil: 4%
NRBC: ** BASophil: 1%
(Nucleated RBC) 0.1% LYMphocytes: 32%
MONocytes: 3%

Shape, size Biconcave (donut) shape GRAnulocytes: 13–16 µm Fragments with a

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.

Introduction to Veterinary Hematology A-3

A.3 Blood Cell Parameters
A.3.1 Red Blood Cells, Hemoglobin
Red blood cells — RBC — are formed in the bone marrow. A mature dog red blood cell is non-nucle-
ated, and has a mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of approximately 70 fl. RBCs are the most numerous
cell type in blood. There are approximately 5–10 x 1012 cells/l in the blood of a healthy dog. RBC
counts and MCV are directly measured primary parameters.

Hematocrit — HCT — is the proportion of RBCs to plasma (liquid portion) in blood. HCT is the sim-
plest way to measure the degree of anemia, and is calculated from the RBC and MCV values:

HCTpercent = (RBC x MCV) / 10

HCTabsolute = HCTpercent / 100

Red Blood Cell Distribution Width — RDW — is a

measure of RBC anisocytosis, the degree of cell size vari-
ation. 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 (RDW-CV) repre-
sented 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 tissues back
to the lungs. HGB is the best measure of blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity.

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin — MCH — is the average hemoglobin content of RBCs, and is cal-
culated 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

Mean Corpuscular Volume — MCV — is the average size (volume) of red blood cells in the blood.

A-4 Introduction to Veterinary Hematology

A.3.2 White Blood Cells
White Blood Cells — WBC — are formed in the bone marrow. During their maturation sequence they
differentiate from the step cells into mature 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.

Normal WBC counts are a fraction of the RBC population. In pathological conditions, the WBC count
can increase dramatically (up to 300 x 109 cells/l in extreme leukemia). In these cases, predilution of
the sample is recommended for the most accurate results (see “Three-Part Differential Method” 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%), monocytes
(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

NEU% = (GRA – EOS – BAS) / WBC

EOS% = EOS / WBC

BAS% = BAS / WBC

Elevated WBC counts can affect other differential parameters. It is highly recommended that abnormal
WBC and other cell differentials be confirmed by a manual blood smear, as is the case with all auto-
mated hematology analyzers.1

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 analyzer first
sets “discriminator 1” at the limit of hemolysed RBCs + PLTs (on the left in the following graph) and
LYM population, then fits normal distribution curves to the remaining WBC histogram (shown below
in different shades of gray).

1. Bessman, JD. Automated Blood Counts and Differentials. A Practical Guide. (Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, 1986),
p. 107.

Introduction to Veterinary Hematology A-5

Eosinophilia is occasionally depicted as a peak between the MON and GRA classifications.

As with any automated system, good laboratory practice requires that all abnormal results be verified
by slide (blood smear) review.

A.3.4 Eosinophils
Eosinophils — EOS — are granulocytes that are spe-
EOS
cialized to attack parasites, such as worms and protozoa.
Histogram
They are also the primary effector cells in allergic symp-
toms. In most species they can be identified morphologi-
cally by the presence of eosin (red) -staining granules.

EM1 400 fl
78.8 fl

A.3.5 Platelets
Platelets — PLT — are non-nucleated fragments of the megakaryocyte in mammals. Note that plate-
lets are formed by cellular fragmentation. Therefore, the platelet 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 plate-
let 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 approximately
10 fl, so in many species PLTs can effectively be separated from RBCs by their size.

A-6 Introduction to Veterinary Hematology

Platelet aggregation is common, particularly in feline spe-
cies, and is often depicted by a flattened, lumpy histogram,
as shown at right. This effect can be minimized with proper
sample collection and vortex mixing of the sample (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 / 100

Typically, PCT = 0.003 = 0.3%

Platelet Distribution Width — PDW — is a measure of platelet anisocytosis, the degree of size vari-
ation. In a healthy sample, platelets demonstrate a Log normal distribution. PDW can be characterized
by a standard deviation (PDW-SD) or a coefficient of variation (PDW-CV) represented as a percentage.

Introduction to Veterinary Hematology A-7

A.4 Normal Hematology Ranges
The following table summarizes normal ranges of blood cell parameters. Keep in mind that normal val-
ues vary from population to population.

Parameter Unit Dog Cat Horse Cow Pig Mouse

WBC 109 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
MON% % 2–4 1–3 0–14 2–7 2–10 0–7
NEU% % 62–87 35–80 22–80 15–65 28.5–64 8–48
EOS% % 0–8 3.4–11.4 0–10
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/l 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/l 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 Primate Sheep User_1

9
WBC 10 cells/l 2.1–19.5 3–11.5 2–10 5.7–21 4–12 6–17
LYM% % 55–97 55–98 27–80 43–77 40–70 12–30
MON% % 0–5 0–6 0–10 0.4–6 0–6
GRA% % 2–31 0–40 16–70 19–52 10–63 62–87
12
RBC 10 cells/l 5.3–10 5–9 7.8–13 4.8–6.3 9–15.8 5.5–8.5
HCT % 35–52 36–50 36–56 30–44 27–45 37–55
MCV fl 50–62 57–70 40–48 50–90 28–40 60–77
RDWcv %
HGB g/l 140–180 127–163 124–187 80–150 90–150 120–180
MCH pg 16–23 17.5–23.5 13.5–16.5 12–13 8–12 19.5–24.5
MCHC g/l 310–400 300–380 321–355 300–360 310–340 310–340
9
PLT 10 cells/l 500–1370 218–641 96–776 200–600 100–800 200–500
MPV fl

A-8 Introduction to Veterinary Hematology

Parameter Unit Guinea Pig Goat Alpaca Llama
WBC 109 cells/l 5.0–17.0 4.0–13.0 6.0–30.0 8.0–23.0
LYM% % 40–80 50–70 10–70 10–30
MON% % 0.0–4.0
NEU% % 20–60 30.0–61.0 40–90 30–100
RBC 1012 cells/l 3.5–7.0 8.0–18.0 8.00–22.0 10.0–17.0
HCT % 35–55 25–38 25–45 25–50
MCV fl 70–95 16–30 15–35 20–35
RDWcv %
HGB g/l 110–180 80–120 90–210 110–180
MCH pg 23–27 5.2–8.0 7.5–13.5 10.0–14.0
MCHC g/l 280–380 300–360 300–450 300–450
9
PLT 10 cells/l 250–850
MPV fl

Introduction to Veterinary Hematology A-9

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.

A-10 Introduction to Veterinary Hematology

Appendix B Operating Principles
This appendix explains the basic operating principles of the ana-
lyzer.

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 Three-Part Differential Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3
B.2.3 Five-Part WBC Differential Method . . . . . . . . . . B-5
B.3 Hemoglobin Determination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-6
B.3.1 Hemoglobin Determination by Photometry . . . . . B-6
B.4 Measured and Calculated Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-7
B.5 Measured and Calculated Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-8

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 con-
ductance (degree of intensity) as measured is directly proportional to the cell volume. This size dis-
crimination, 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 illus-
trates this method.

The principle of this method is that blood diluted with an isotonic solution (diluent) conducts electric
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 aperture.

Applying pressure to the diluted sample causes it to flow through the aperture. When a cell is passing
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.

B-2 Operating Principles

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 otherwise too
high.
Although diluted blood is used, in cases of
extremely high concentrations (such as
leukemia) WBC density can be 100x higher
than normal, causing two or more cells to
pass through the aperture at a time,
generating one pulse instead of two (or
more). This is called coincidence, and results
in non-linear 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 recommended
— see “Using Prediluted Mode” on page 4-22.

B.2.2 Three-Part Differential Method

To perform a three-part WBC differential count, the RBCs must first be lysed since RBCs are typically
1000 times more numerous in normal blood than are WBCs and would interfere with WBC counting if
left intact. Lysing also releases the hemoglobin stored in the RBCs for direct analysis in the solution.

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 differ-
ential hemolysis.

Operating Principles B-3

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).

Three-Part Differential

For the three-part counting, a primary dilution of 1:160 is created by diluting 25 µl of whole blood with
4 ml of diluent into the chamber. After taking the RBC sample of 25 µl, the remaining diluted blood is
treated with 0.5–0.7 ml of lyse reagent — this depends on the animal profile selected — to destroy red
blood cells. The remaining solution is suitable for photometric measurements of HGB, and counting of
WBC. After these measurements done, the software is able to determine HGB, WBC, LYM, LYM%,
MON, MON%, and total GRA, and GRA%. GRA contains all types of granulocytes: GRA = NEU +
EOS + BAS, and GRA% = NEU% + EOS% + BAS%. Volume distribution of three-part measurement
can be seen on the three-part histogram. The cells are separated in three regions depending on their
sizes: LYM, MON, and GRA, from left to right, separated by discriminators.

The figure below shows a typical three-part differential WBC histogram of selective hemolysis (dog).

LYM GRA
MON

B-4 Operating Principles

B.2.3 Five-Part WBC Differential Method
Five-part WBC differential results are determined using two separate dilutions, and two counting ses-
sions. The first session is used to count EOS, while the second is the three-part differential and RBC
counting described above. In three-part only measurements, the EOS counting is omitted.

EOS Counting

To determine EOS, EOS% and BAS, BAS%, a second sample preparation and counting is required.
25 µl of whole blood sample is diluted with a species-dependent volume of lyse 2 solution, a hemolytic
reagent and diluent, to form a 1:200 dilution. During the incubation time, white blood cells will be dif-
ferentially hemolysed, so that eosinophils will retain a higher cellular volume.

After counting and sizing the cells, the software will

EOS
interpret all cells above the discriminator as eosinophils.
Histogram
The user can observe the distribution of the cells on the
EOS histogram.

The number and percentage of BAS cells will be calcu-

lated using EOS and other internal parameters using a EM1 400 fl
mathematical formula. 78.8 fl

The EOS count is then followed with a three-part differential count (described above) to provide the
rest of the WBC count, the RBC and the PLT and related parameters.

Operating Principles B-5

B.3 Hemoglobin Determination
Hemoglobin is measured directly by means of the traditionally used cyanomethoglobin reaction, but
the HM5 uses cyanide-free substances to reach the same endpoint.

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 cyanide-free lysing reagents to minimize negative effects on user safety and the
environment. 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
concentration of HGB:
HGB ≈ log (Ireference / Isample)
Light source 540 nm Sample Photo
(lamp) filter dilution detector

B-6 Operating Principles

B.4 Measured and Calculated Values
Each sample is analyzed to produce a complete, 22-parameter, five-part differential blood count (CBC),
including the following measured or calculated parameters:

 WBC — total white blood cell count

 LYM — lymphocyte count
 MON — monocyte count*
 NEU — neutrophil count
 EOS — eosinophil count
 BAS — basophil count
 LYM% — lymphocyte percentage
 MON% — monocyte* percentage
 NEU% — neutrophil percentage
 EOS% — eosinophil percentage
 BAS% — basophil 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, coefficient of variation
 PLT — platelet count
 PCT — platelet crit
 MPV — mean platelet volume
 PDWc — platelet distribution width, coefficient of variation

* 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 percent-
age depends on the individual animal and is generally inconsequential due to the very low numbers of eosinophils in a healthy animal).
Eosinophilias, however, can sometimes be visualized as a distinct peak between the monocyte range and the granulocyte peak on a histo-
gram.

Operating Principles B-7

B.5 Measured and Calculated Values
The VetScan HM5 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)
Red Blood Cells — RBC Total number of erythrocytes (red blood cells).
(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 = HCTpercentage / 100
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 / 10
absolute) • PCTabsolute = PCTpercentage / 100

B-8 Operating Principles

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.

Eosinophils — EOS, EOS% Absolute values counted in channels as determined by the
(reportable as: cells/l, cell/µl, %) EOS discriminator.

Percentage calculated from the absolute EOS and WBC

values.
Basophils — BAS, BAS% BAS is the absolute count of basophils. BAS% is the
(reportable as cells/l, cells/µl, %) percentage of basophils in the total WBC.
Neutrophils — NEU, NEU% NEU is the absolute count of neutrophils. NEU% is the
(reportable as cells/l, cells/µl, %) percentage of neutrophils in the total WBC.

Operating Principles B-9

B-10 Operating Principles
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. a
Metabolic disorder Use RBC, PCV, MCV, and RDW rather than
RBCs may be HGB, MCH, MCHC values to assess
smudged on blood anemia.
film.
Hemolysis Pink or red plasma. • Decreased Traumatic Redraw w/ clean venipuncture. Remove
RBC, PCV venipuncture needle before dispensing blood into tube.
• Increased
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 filling;
• Rising left side of lymphocyte curve. vortex sample immediately before testing.
• Small pale clots stick to wooden applicator
stick swirled in sample. Excess potassium Fill tube at least halfway, or remove portion
• Low platelet histogram with a rising right EDTA (under-filled of potassium EDTA before filling tube.
side. tube)
• Possible tailing on right side of Miscellaneous/ Use alternative anti-coagulant as heparin or
granulocyte curve. idiopathic 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/or
RBC histogram. decreased MPV feline species manual platelet count.
Clotted sample • Visible clot in sample. Decreased PLT, Traumatic Redraw with clean venipuncture; use
• Red clot(s) stick to wooden applicator stick decreased WBC, venipuncture and/or vacutainer system or anti-coagulated
swirled in sample. and/or decreased delayed transfer to syringe; mix collection tube by multiple
• Platelet clumps may or may not be visible RBC (varies with anti-coagulant inversions immediately after filling. Clotted
on blood smear. clot size) 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 • L flag in dogs. increased Lymphs commonly with sample (for additional information, contact
felines) Abaxis Technical Support — see page 1-3).
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.

D.1 Normal Level 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-5
D.2.4 Dog: Low PLT, Low MPV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-6
D.2.5 Dog: Stress Leukogram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-7
D.2.6 Dog: Eosinophilia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-8
D.3 Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-9
D.3.1 Cat: Optimal Sample. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-9
D.3.2 Cat: Clumped PLT, Increased LYM . . . . . . . . . . D-10
D.3.3 Cat: Eosinophilia and Lymphocytosis . . . . . . . . D-11
D.4 Horses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-12
D.4.1 Horse: Normal Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-12
D.4.2 Horse: Low LYM%, High GRA% . . . . . . . . . . . D-13
D.4.3 Horse: Low PLT and WBC (Leukopenia/Lymphope-
nia) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-14
D.4.4 Horse: Low RBC and HGB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-15

Veterinary Case Studies D-1

D.1 Normal Level Control
The following report shows typical histograms of normal level control blood run in test mode (the con-
trol results are the same in test mode as in QC mode).

Note the differences in cell populations: human samples and control blood contain larger cells than ani-
mal blood.

Samples run under the species “Control” do not display reference range bars or cell percentages.

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 approximately 40 fl are counted as WBCs (indicated by
discriminator 1). Discriminators 2 and 3 show the MON population. The histogram
shows well-defined LYM and GRA peaks, with MON in the valley between them.
 RBC — All cells larger than 25 fl are counted as RBCs. The RBC histogram follows a
normal distribution. The MCV is near 68 fl, and the RBC is near 7.66 x 1012 cells/l.
 PLT — PLT cell population is between 2 and 27 fl. The PLT histogram follows a log-nor-
mal distribution.
 EOS — An ideal EOS peak is shown, well-separated from other cell types to the left.

Veterinary Case Studies D-3

D.2.2 Dog: High LYM%, Low GRA%
The following shows a sample that has high LYM%. (LYM% is normally near 12–30% for dogs.) This
case shows a lymphocytosis.

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — High LYM%, low NEU%.
 RBC — Normal.
 PLT — Normal.

D-4 Veterinary Case Studies

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

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — Three-part differential curve with good separation between populations.
 EOS — Normal EOS count.
 RBC — Normal.
 PLT — High PLT. No sign of PLT clumping.

Veterinary Case Studies D-5

D.2.4 Dog: Low PLT, Low MPV
This sample shows a very low PLT, while the WBC and the differential are normal. This case demon-
strates a thrombocytopenia.

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — Discriminator 1 is at 36 fl, which is slightly lower than normal. Otherwise, the
histogram appears to be normal. Discriminators 2 and 3 are placed correctly according to
the WBC population.
 RBC — Normal.
 PLT — Low PLT. The nicely shaped PLT curve indicates that no clumping has occurred,
but a manual smear is recommended for confirmation.

D-6 Veterinary Case Studies

D.2.5 Dog: Stress Leukogram
When dogs are stressed before the sample draw, they often show an increase in total WBC count, with
an elevated NEU count and a decreased LYM count. Dogs that are stressed but otherwise healthy dis-
play results similar to those shown below.

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — Very high total leukocyte count, with a pronouncedly shrunken LYM peak and
an elevated NEU with suppressed EOS.
 RBC — Normal.
 PLT — PLT count is normal for this sample.

Veterinary Case Studies D-7

D.2.6 Dog: Eosinophilia
This sample demonstrates an eosinophilic canine patient.

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — The histogram shows a fairly normal WBC profile.
 EOS — The absolute count of eosinophils and EOS% are above normal. The high EOS
value indicates a need for a manual blood smear.
 PLT — The distinct peak shows a slight thrombocytopenia, with no detectable clumping.

D-8 Veterinary Case Studies

D.3 Cats
An important characteristic of cat blood is that the RBCs are much smaller than those of dogs, poten-
tially causing the RBC and PLT histograms to overlap slightly.
Cats also commonly demonstrate both platelet aggregation and giant platelets. The analyzer minimizes
these effects with a proprietary technology and dynamic discriminator approach to maximize accuracy.
Some clinics have minimized stress-induced platelet aggregation by collection from the saphenous
vein. Analyzing the sample as close to the time of draw also minimizes PLT clumping. Pre-analytical
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.

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — Normal. Well-defined and well-separated LYM and GRA (granulocyte) peaks.
 RBC — Normal.
 PLT — Optimal: the PLT is well separated from the RBC in a well-defined peak.

Veterinary Case Studies D-9

D.3.2 Cat: Clumped PLT, Increased LYM
The histograms for this cat indicate that clumped PLTs are affecting the WBC count:

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — The increased size of the LYM peak relative to the GRA peak and the high
LYM result on a cat sample suggest that the user should examine the PLT histogram. The
clumped platelets (PLT) increase the LYM count in this sample, and also contribute to
cell aggregates, shown in the extended tail on the right of the histogram.
 PLT — The PLT histogram lacks a defined peak and slopes upward to the right, indicat-
ing the presence of clumped platelets.

D-10 Veterinary Case Studies

D.3.3 Cat: Eosinophilia and Lymphocytosis
This sample demonstrates a lymphocytosis and eosinophilia in a feline patient.

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — Large increase in LYM with a relative decrease in GRA. The large LYM count
and uniform shape of the histograms indicate that this is likely a genuine lymphocytosis.
 EOS — The EOS histogram shows a single broad peak, which causes the high EOS
count.
 RBC — Normal, with normal distribution.
 PLT — The PLT curve slopes up and indicates some clumping in this sample.

Veterinary Case Studies D-11

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

D.4.1 Horse: Normal Sample

The following shows a typical normal sample for a horse:

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — WBC value is normal, the cells are well separated, 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-12 Veterinary Case Studies

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

These histograms indicate the following:

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

Veterinary Case Studies D-13

D.4.3 Horse: Low PLT and WBC (Leukopenia/Lymphopenia)
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.

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — Low WBC and LYM, with accurately placed discriminators.
 RBC — Normal.
 PLT — Low PLT.

D-14 Veterinary Case Studies

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 separation of
the WBC populations from the RBC and from each other.

These histograms indicate the following:

 WBC — This is a well-separated WBC histogram, showing clear populations and good
WBC differentials.
 RBC — Low RBC (HCT) and HGB, indicating possible anemia. MCV is slightly higher,
and the RBC histogram is slightly skewed to the larger end, indicating the presence of
larger, perhaps immature RBCs.
 PLT — Normal. (Note the good separation from RBCs.)

Veterinary Case Studies D-15

D-16 Veterinary Case Studies
Index
A Contacting Abaxis 1-3
Abaxis Customer and Technical Support 1-3 Control panel 2-4
Analysis procedure 4-8 Controls
Anisocytosis B-8 parameter precision 10-4
Aperture, cleaning 7-5 Controls. See Quality Control (QC)
Customer Support 1-3
B
Basophils 4-23, B-9
D
BAS, BAS% differentials B-9 Daily maintenance 7-2
Blank measurements Database
flags 9-2 viewing results 6-2
running 4-5 Date and time, setting 3-9
Bleach-cleaning 7-5 Diagnostic Self test 7-10
Built-in printer 2-4, 2-6 E
installing paper 2-18
Electrical requirements 2-17
C Environmental requirements 2-17
Calibration 5-2 Enzymatic cleaning 7-4
history, viewing 5-5 EOS histogram 4-15, 9-6, A-6
materials 5-2 Eosinophils 4-23, 9-6, A-6, B-7, B-9
resetting 5-5 EOS histogram 4-15
when needed 5-2 EOS, EOS% differentials B-9
Cell discriminators 9-6 Erythrocytes
dynamic A-5 See also Red blood cells
in histograms 4-14 Ethernet port 2-5
Cleaning Export format 3-8
aperture 7-5 Exporting results 4-17
automatic 7-5 External printer 2-18
bleach-cleaning 7-5 F
daily 4-4
Flags. See Warning indicators (flags)
on reagent pack change 7-8
Fluidic system 2-9
Combined results 4-17
Complete Blood Count (CBC) B-2 G
interpreting 4-23 Granulocytes 4-15
measured or calculated values 4-14, B-7, B-8 and cell discriminators 9-6
platelet parameters 4-24 GRA/GRA% 4-14, B-9
red blood cell parameters 4-24
white blood cell parameters 4-23 H
Computer Hematocrit (HCT) 4-24, A-4, B-8
configuring USB driver 2-21 Hematology
connecting to analyzer 2-20 measurement methods B-2
normal control 5-2

Index I-1
Hemoglobin A-4 Lyse
average content of erythrocytes B-8 adjusting volume 4-12
concentration (HGB) B-8
mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) 4-24,
M
A-4, B-8 Maintenance 7-1
mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration cleaning wash head (weekly) 7-2
(MCHC) 4-24, A-4, B-8 daily 7-2
mean corpuscular volume (MCV) A-4 Self test 7-10
measured and calculated values B-8 weekly 7-2
measurement method B-6 Measurement units, setting 3-8
Hemoglobin Concentration (HGB) 4-24 Menus and commands 2-10
Histograms 4-14 Micro-bubbles 2-23, 2-29, 4-3
cell discriminators 4-14 Monocytes 4-23, B-7
cell-type populations 4-14 and cell discriminators 9-6
EOS (cells MON/MON% 4-14, B-9
eosinophil) 4-15 N
EOS (eosinophils) 4-15
full-spectrum 9-6 Neutrophils 4-15, 4-23, B-9
interpreting 4-13, 4-14, 4-15 NEU, NEU% differentials B-9
PLT (platelet) 4-15 O
RBC (red blood cell) 4-15 Operating principles B-1
scanning for abnormalities 4-14 Out-of-range results 9-2
WBC (white blood cell) 4-14
History, calibration 5-5 P
Peristaltic pump
I replacing tube assembly 7-11
Initialization 2-28 spare tube assembly 2-15
Installation 2-18 Platelets A-6
electrical requirements 2-17 aggregation (clumping) 4-15, A-7
environmental requirements 2-17 anisocytosis, measure of B-8
external keyboard 2-18 average volume B-8
external printer 2-19 clumped/giant 4-15
power supply 2-18 count (PLT) 4-24
selecting a location 2-16 distribution width (PDW) 4-24, A-7, B-8
K histogram (PLT) 4-15
Keyboard in CBC parameters 4-24
external, connecting external 2-18 in WBC histograms 4-14
mini 2-15 mean platelet volume (MPV) 4-24, B-8
measured and calculated values B-8
L platelet count (PLT) B-8
Language used by analyzer 3-8 platelet hematocrit (PCT) 4-24, B-8
Leukocytes PLT histogram 4-15
See White blood cells thrombocrit B-8
Levy-Jennings graphs 5-10 Ports
Linearity ranges 10-3 Ethernet 2-5
Lymphocytes 4-23 USB 2-4, 2-5
and cell discriminators 9-6 Power
LYM/LYM% 4-14, B-9 turning on and off 2-26

I-2 Index
Power supply 2-17 nucleated (nRBC) 4-15, 9-6
connecting 2-18 red blood cell (RBC) histogram 4-15
cord 2-15 red blood cell count (RBC) 4-15, B-8
input 2-5 red cell distribution width (RDW) 4-24, A-4,
surge protection 2-8, 2-17 B-8
uninterruptable (UPS) 2-8, 2-17 resistive 9-6
Power switch 2-5 References, veterinary hematology A-10
Precision 10-4 Results
Prediluted mode contents stored 6-2
analysis 4-22 exporting 4-17
calibrating before use 4-22 interpreting 4-13
preparing samples 4-22 linearity ranges 10-3
Printer measured and calculated values B-8
built-in 2-4, 2-6, 2-18 out-of-range 9-2
external 2-19, 3-3 printing 4-10, 4-16
Printing report contents 4-13
Autoprint 3-2 saved to database automatically 4-16
combined results 4-17 saving 6-2
examples 4-19 warning indicators 4-10
results 4-10, 4-16 Reticulocytes 9-6
Q S
Quality Control (QC) 5-6 Safety Information 1-3
database 5-10 Sample tube adaptors 2-9, 2-15
Levy-Jennings graphs 5-10 Samples
materials 5-6 collecting and preparing 4-2
monitoring over time 5-9 feline, special techniques 4-3, 4-15
stored results 5-6 in prediluted mode 4-22
types 5-6 multiple tube draws 4-2
viewing results 5-10 potential interferences C-1
when to perform 5-6 proper handling 4-2
quality assurance 4-2
R storing 4-3
Reagent pack 2-15 tube adaptors 4-8
changing 7-8 useful life 4-3
color-coded connections 2-5, 2-24 verifying species 4-10
connecting 2-23 Sampling rotor 2-4, 4-8
status 8-3 Screen saver
tubing kit 2-15 messages 7-2
Red blood cells A-4 Screen saver time 3-8
anisocytosis B-8 Self test 7-10
distribution width B-8 Service, preparing for 7-1
eosinophil count (EOS) 4-15 Shipping the analyzer 9-13
histogram (RBC) 4-15 shut-down before 2-27
in CBC parameters 4-24 Shutting down
in WBC histograms 4-14 for 10 days or more 2-27
mean corpuscular volume (MCV) 4-24, B-8 for 72 hours or more 2-27
measured and calculated values B-8 for shipping 2-27

Index I-3
Software V
updating 8-3 Veterinary hematology references A-10
version number 8-2 VetScan VS2/Classic analyzers
Sound 3-8 connecting 2-20
Species
checking available 1-2 W
defining custom 8-3 Warning indicators (flags) 4-22, 9-2
printing ranges 8-4 blank flags 9-2
verifying before analysis 4-10 examples 9-7
Specifications 10-2 interpreting 9-7
Standby mode measurement conditions 9-2
leaving 2-30 result flags 9-3
Standby time 3-8 result warnings 9-3
Status information 8-2 Wash head
Storing the analyzer 7-8 cleaning reminder 7-2
Subsystems, analyzer 2-9 cleaning weekly 7-2
Surge protector 2-8, 2-17 Weekly maintenance 7-2
System 2-1 White blood cells A-5
System components 2-15 classification A-5
differential count 9-6
T GRA/GRA% differentials 4-14, B-9
Technical Support 1-3 in CBC parameters 4-23
Thermal paper 2-15 LYM/LYM% differentials 4-14, B-9
Thrombocytes. See Platelets measured and calculated values B-8
Troubleshooting 9-1 MON/MON% differentials 4-14, B-9
U three-part differential method B-5
WBC histograms
Uninterruptable power supply (UPS) 2-8, 2-17
white blood cell count (WBC) 4-14, B-8
Units, setting 3-8
USB driver 2-21
USB ports 2-4, 2-5

I-4 Index
 Abaxis, Inc. – Animal Health
Worldwide Headquarters
3240 Whipple Road
Union City, CA 94587
United States of America
Tel: 800.822.2947
www.abaxis.com

Abaxis and VetScan are registered trademarks of Abaxis, Inc. ©2013 790-7013 Rev. B