wBC count

LAB5
White blood cells count
W.B.Cs (leucocytes) are special cells that are whitish in color because they lack Hb. Large than R.B.Cs & have a nucleus. Their function to protect the body against invading microorganisms and remove dead cells & debris from the tissues by phagocytosis
Leucocytes can be classified according to their appearance in stains into 2 types:-
1- Granulocytes. These contain large cytoplasmic granules.
2- A granulocytes. These contain very small granules cannot seen with the light microscope.
The first one is classified into 3 types according the reactivity with the stain :-
1- Neutrophils
2- Eosinophils
3- Acidophils
The second is classified into 2 types:-
1- Monocytes
2- Lymphocytes
Principle:-
Whole blood is diluted with a fluid to:-
1- Hemolyse the R.B.Cs.
2- Stain the nuclei of W.B.Cs to see easier under microscope.
3- Keep the W.B.Cs in normal state (isotonic solution)
The number of W.B.Cs is counted in a fixed volume of fluids and the final result is expressed as the number of cells in cubic millimeter of undiluted blood. (No. of cells / 1 mm of blood)
Reagent & Equipment:-
1- Anticoagulated blood.