Red Cell Volume Determination Using a Stable Isotope of Chromium

Abstract

Objective: To validate and improve a method of red cell volume determination by useof a stable isotope of chromium.

Methods: Twelve subjects were sequentially injected with red blood cells labeled with a stable isotope of chromium (⁵³ Cr) and red blood cells labeled with radioisotopic chromium (⁵¹ Cr). Measurement of ⁵³Cr dilution was by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Measurement of ⁵¹Cr dilution was by gamma counter.

Results: Comparison of the two methods let to results that differed on average by 34.5 ± 45.0 mL (1.8 ± 2.2%), 0.3 to 3.2%, 95% confidence interval.

Conclusion: Measurement of red cell volume by use of a stable isotope of chromium is accurate, with potential applications including measurement in pregnant women and children or other groups in whom exposure to radioisotopes is undesirable.

Keywords

Red cell volume chromium stable isotopes blood volume

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