Abstract:
Introduction
Haemoglobin estimation is an important test. The standard Haemoglobin (Hb) estimation method is
Cyanmethaemoglobin (HiCN) method. The Drabkin reagent used in HiCN method contains cyanide
compounds which is hazardous for both environment and laboratory personnel.
Aim
To assess accuracy of Hb estimation by using distilled water as the reagent compared to the HiCN
method.
Materials and Method
Retained 95 EDTA blood samples received at the Haematology laboratory, Teaching Hospital,
Karapitiya were included in this study. The Hb value of each sample was estimated by standard HiCN
method and using the new method (performed by using distilled water as the reagent). In Drabkin
method 10 20 minutes are needed to develop stable Hb pigment for the estimation thus readings are
taken at 20 minutes. Using new method, Hb concentration of all the samples were estimated
immediately and after 20 minutes. Correlation studies and paired t test were taken to statistical analysis.
Result
A good correlation was observed between the cyanmethaemoglobin method and the new method.
Paired t test values of immediate absorbance and absorbance at 20 minutes of the new method showed
no significant difference from values obtained by standard Cyanmethaemoglobin method (immediate
absorbance - P =0.819, Absorbance at 20 minutes - P =0.941).
Discussion and Conclusion
This study shows statistical agreement of results generated by new method against the standard. The
new method doesn't require any reagent or toxic chemicals. However appropriate test validation study
is needed to verify the applicability of new method for routine testing before it is recommended.
