Hematology: monocyte
Synonym(s): Mononuclear phagocyte
Overview
- Monocytes circulate in the blood briefly → enter the tissues → transform into macrophages → do not re-enter the circulation.
- The ratio of circulating monocytes to macrophages is ~ 1:400.
- The mononuclear phagocyte system (bone marrow precursors, monocytes and macrophages) phagocytoses and destroys microorganisms, phagocytoses particulate material (foreign bodies, tissue and cellular debris), interacts with lymphocytes in immune reactions, produces interferon and regulates hematopoiesis.
Uses
In combination
- With other red and white blood cell parameters as part of routine hematological screen (CBC) Hematology: complete blood count (CBC).
Sampling
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Tests
Methodologies
- Manual hemocytometer - accuracy +/- 20-25%.
- Electronic counting systems - accuracy +/- 3-5% (intralaboratory precision) or +/- 10-15% (interlaboratory precision).
- Some in-practice analyzers or cell counting methods available.
Availability
- Widely available at commercial laboratories.
- May be performed in practice.
Validity
Sensitivity
- Sensitive.
Specificity
- Non-specific.
Predictive value
- Useful if used in conjunction with differential white blood cell counts.
Technician extrinsic limitations
- Some experience is required for accurate identification of leukocytes.
Result Data
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Further Reading
Publications
Refereed papers
- Recent references from VetMedResource and PubMed.
Other sources of information
- Cowell R L, Tyler R D & Meinkoth J H (1999) Diagnostic Cytology and Hematology of the Dog and Cat. 2nd edn. Mosby, USA.
- Duncan J R, Prasse K W & Mahaffy E A (1994) Veterinary Laboratory Medicine Clinical Pathology. 3rd edn. Iowa University Press, USA.
- Jain N C (1993) Essentials of Veterinary Hematology. Lea & Febiger, USA.