Status of a computer-aided system for cytogenetic specimen preparation and analysis

In recent years the demand for cytogenetic analysis has been increasing dramatically. How ever, the basic steps in the process of specimen preparation and analysis are not amenable to large scale processing of samples. Elements of a semi automated system for the preparation and analysis of human chromosomes are described. The system is divided into two sections. The first inputs blood samples and performs the various steps required to produce microscope slides suitable for staining and cytogenetic analysis. The second section inputs these slides, locates cells for analysis, and arranges the individual chromosomes into a karyotype which forms the basis for clini cal diagnosis. The system is currently undergoing an evaluation in a clinical and research cytogenetics laboratory. The hardware and software of the system are described and some preliminary results are presented.