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.<>