Photo by Graham Colm
Roche has announced the launch of its cobas m 511 integrated hematology analyzer in countries that recognize the CE mark.*
The cobas m 511 combines 3 components of the hematology testing process—a digital morphology analyzer, cell counter, and classifier—into a single system that prepares, stains, and analyzes microscopy blood slides.
Roche said cobas m 511 provides greater accuracy and consistency than current technologies by identifying, counting, isolating, and categorizing blood cells, then presenting the digital images of all these cell types.
The company said this automation and digitalization reduces the need for resource-intensive manual microscope reviews, supports clinicians to share challenging cases around the world, and enables the delivery of quicker results, which ultimately aid patient diagnoses.
The cobas m 511 uses Bloodhound® technology for printing, staining, and imaging. This technology uses 30 µL of blood to print a monolayer onto the slide, stains for further analysis of the morphology, and enables classification of cells displayed on a viewing station.
Unlike the indirect methods commonly used in blood analysis today, the cobas m 511 images individual cells directly.
Based on these direct images, the Bloodhound® technology counts, analyzes morphology, and then classifies every cell in the viewing area to provide a standard complete blood count and 5-part differential and reticulocyte count.
While hematologists will continue to have the option of looking at slides under their microscopes, the cobas m 511 provides cell-by-cell images that, in many cases, may eliminate the need for microscopic review.
“With this launch, patients will benefit from a faster and more accurate diagnosis of blood diseases as diverse as anemia and leukemia,” said Roland Diggelmann, CEO of Roche Diagnostics.
“We are entering a new area of innovation with Roche in hematology testing, supporting customers with integrated and efficient laboratory solutions, which deliver increased medical value.”
*Local product availability may vary independently from CE mark approval. The cobas m 511 integrated hematology analyzer is not available in countries with previously agreed third-party vendor agreements.