Counting Microaggregate Particles in Blood

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Abstract
A method was described for measuring microaggregates in stored [human] blood with an electronic particle counter avoiding the usual use of a hemolytic agent. To overcome red blood cell coincidence at low dilutions of the samples, 2 different sized apertures were used. The method reliably measures microaggregates from 12.7-80.6 .mu.m diameter. Hemolytic agents added to fresh blood induced the formation of microaggregates. A 10-fold reduction in a commonly used saponin concentration produced satisfactory hemolysis without inducing significant microaggregate formation. Hemolytic agents added to stored blood decreased the population of microaggregates significantly from that of unhemolyzed blood. This phenomenon was minimized with reduced saponin concentrations.