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Development of an automated cytological smear staining device for rapid on-site evaluation

Guangyan Wang1, Kai Yang1, Chunhua Zhou2, Duowu Zou2, Shiju Yan1


1School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China. 

2Department of Gastroenterology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai 200025, China.


Address correspondence to: Shiju Yan, School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, No. 516 Jungong Road, Yangpu, Shanghai 200093, China. E-mail: yanshiju@usst.edu.cn.


DOI: https://doi.org/10.61189/599339cpncph


Received January 20, 2025; Accepted April 16, 2025; Published March 24, 2026


Highlights

● The developed device reduces manpower and time consumption, improving staining efficiency in digestive endoscopy centers. 

● It has a compact design with minimal contamination to the operating environment.  

● The developed device demonstrates excellent staining performance and has been recognized by clinicians.

Abstract

Objective: To develop an automated staining device addressing the issues of cumber some operation, low efficiency, and cluttered workspace associated with current clinical rapid on-site evaluation using Diff-Quik staining for aspiration specimen cytological smears. Methods: The device integrates a microcontroller to control motors, peristaltic pumps, solenoid valves, and fans, enabling the automatic transfer of cytological slides, delivery of staining and rinsing solutions, and forced-air drying. Results: Preliminary test results indicated that the developed device successfully performs four key steps, including Diff-Quik A and B staining, rinsing, and drying, achieving automatic staining of cytological smears. Conclusion: The developed device features a compact footprint and has no pollution to the operating environment, offering a practical solution for automated, efficient, and convenient slide staining during rapid on-site evaluation procedures.

Keywords: Rapid on-site evaluation, Cytological smear, Staining, Automation, Device development

Cite
Wang GY, Yang K, Zhou CH, Zou DW, Yan SJ. Development of an automated cytological smear staining device for rapid on-site evaluation. Prog Med Devices. 2026 Mar; 4 (1): 1-9. doi: 10.61189/599339cpncph
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