WBC fluid, when used as a diluting fluid in the context of blood cell counting, is a purple-colored, clear solution.
This characteristic color and clarity are important for accurate white blood cell (WBC) counts. The fluid is used to dilute the blood sample, typically in a 1:20 ratio within a WBC pipette. This dilution:
- Lyses the red blood cells, making the white blood cells easier to visualize and count.
- The purple color provides contrast, aiding in the differentiation of WBCs from the background under a microscope when using a counting chamber.
- The clarity ensures that the cells can be easily seen and accurately counted.
