Advanced CBC-Derived Indices Integrated into Hematology Platforms
Posted on 30 Apr 2026
Diatron, a STRATEC brand, has introduced six advanced hematological indices on its Aquila, Aquarius 3, and Abacus 5 hematology analyzers. The new Research Use Only (RUO) indices include Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR), Monocyte-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (MLR), Mentzer Index, Red Cell Distribution Width Index (RDWI), and Green & King Index. The additions are designed to expand the information yielded by routine complete blood counts, extending the analyzers’ reported outputs beyond standard CBC values on these platforms.
The indices are automatically calculated from existing CBC parameters and require no additional samples. By embedding the calculations within the analyzer software, laboratories can avoid manual computation and incorporate the results into standard reporting without adding workflow steps or consumable use. The parameters integrate into routine workflows and are displayed within the instrument interface on Aquila, Aquarius 3, and Abacus 5 systems, making additional research indices accessible without added complexity.
These indices are designated for research use and are not available in the USA. Their implementation is positioned to support retrospective and prospective studies, method comparison and validation projects, and exploratory work on risk scores and algorithms. They are intended strictly for research applications on the supported platforms.
NLR, PLR, and MLR are widely described in the literature as markers reflecting immune and inflammatory status. In research settings, they can offer non-invasive insight into systemic inflammation, infection severity, and immune activation. They have been investigated across infections, cardiovascular disease, oncology, and autoimmune conditions. Published studies have reported associations between elevated NLR and outcomes such as infections, cancer prognosis, and cardiovascular risk; PLR and pro-inflammatory or pro-thrombotic states; and MLR and chronic inflammatory conditions, including tuberculosis and autoimmune diseases.
The Mentzer Index, RDWI, and Green & King Index have been described as tools to support differentiation between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and beta-thalassemia trait (BTT). By combining key CBC parameters, these indices can facilitate investigations into diagnostic strategies and algorithms in hematology research.
By delivering deeper insights directly from routine CBCs without extra cost or workflow burden, the added indices are designed to enhance CBC insights without increasing consumable usage or adding workflow steps. They are intended to support timely, well-informed decisions while boosting laboratory and researcher awareness. These advanced RUO indices are described as particularly valuable in resource-limited settings, where access to specialized testing or high-cost assays may be restricted.
The indices are presented through intuitive software on the Aquila, Aquarius 3, and Abacus 5 analyzers, reflecting Diatron’s focus on integrating additional analytical capabilities directly into routine testing platforms.
