Beyond the CBC: Emerging hematology biomarkers and automated technologies transforming clinical laboratory practice

By Rajasri Chandra, MS, MBA

This article explores the evolution of the complete blood count (CBC) and emerging technologies transforming clinical hematology. Participants will examine extended hematology parameters, including immature granulocyte percentage, immature platelet fraction, reticulocyte hemoglobin equivalent, and cell population data. The article also reviews emerging cellular and molecular biomarkers, automated digital morphology, and advanced technologies that support the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of hematologic disorders and malignancies.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this article, the reader will be able to: 

1. Describe the major historical developments that led to the evolution of the complete blood count (CBC), including manual and automated cell-counting methods.
2. Explain the principles of electronic cell counting and the impact of the Coulter Principle on modern hematology laboratory practice.
3. Differentiate the clinical applications of extended hematology parameters, including immature granulocyte percentage (IG%), immature platelet fraction (IPF), reticulocyte hemoglobin equivalent (Ret-He), and cell population data (CPD).
4. Identify key cellular, molecular, and technological biomarkers used in the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of hematologic malignancies and related disorders.

About the Presenter

Rajasri Chandra, MS, MBA is a global marketing leader with expertise in managing upstream, downstream, strategic, tactical, traditional, and digital marketing in biotech, in vitro diagnostics, life sciences, and pharmaceutical industries. Raj is an orchestrator of go-to-market strategies driving complete product life cycle from ideation to commercialization.