New approach to haemoglobinometry based on reflectance photometry

A new approach to haemoglobinometry based on reflectance photometry using a pretreated cell strip is described. A disposable cell strip is designed to absorb a standardized volume of blood from a finger prick without any volumetric measuring apparatus. Pretreatment of the cell oxidizes haemoglobin to methemoglobin, thereby eliminating the errors of Tallqvist's method. The behavior of blood cells on chemically treated as well as untreated filter paper is studied by scanning electron microscopy. The principle behind the proposed method is used to fabricate a small, cheap and portable hemoglobinometer using LEDs and suitable sensors. This technique provides a simple and reliable means of ascertaining hemoglobin content in blood for routine as well as field use. >