[Standardization in hematology and the use of the data in clinical laboratories].

Recently developed automated blood cell counters provide accurate and precise data on complete blood count (CBC). The results of nationwide surveys obtained using them are usually better than those obtained by biochemical tests. The precision of CBC counting has been improved owing to the efforts of laboratories and manufacturers. As for hemoglobinometry, the cyanmethemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin methods used in blood cell counters gave different results for fresh and artificial blood in control surveys. Now instead of the oxyhemoglobin method, the sodium lauryl sulfate-hemoglobin method is used to minimize the variation among different counters. The biggest problem at present is the lack of control blood which can be used for any blood cell counter. Another problem is the laboratory report sent to clinicians, which gives only numerical data. However, other comments and normal reference values should also be presented. Sufficient care may not be taken for normal reference values; they vary considerably among different laboratories. Also, most laboratories and manufacturers now use various conventional units for CBC, but the SI unit should be used for comparison of the data. In conclusion, nationwide unification of CBC values should be established in the near future with cooperative efforts by laboratories and manufacturers.