A new simple method for measuring red cell aggregation

Abstract

A viscometric technique is outlined for the measurement of red cell aggregation (RCA). Samples are submitted to a constant shear rate of 2,4 s⁻¹. The resulting time dependent torque signal reaches a peak soon after starting the rotation and falls within seconds to a constant baseline, thereby describing an area “F” with the baseline. The shear history of the sample being strictly controlled, “F” is reproducible and shows a direct, positive correlation with RCA as determined for instance in the “aggregometer”.