Orthogonal light scatter is used to measure which of the following?

Prepare for Rodak's Hematology Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Orthogonal light scatter is primarily used to measure internal complexity of the cell. This measurement is performed in flow cytometry, where particles are passed through a laser beam. As cells pass through the laser, they scatter light in different ways, allowing for the assessment of various cell characteristics.

In the context of flow cytometry, the forward scatter detects cell size or volume, while the orthogonal scatter, typically referred to as side scatter, provides information on the internal complexity of a cell. This includes features such as the presence of granules or the complexity of the cytoplasmic structure.

While cellular granularity can partly relate to internal complexity, they are not synonymous terms, as internal complexity encompasses more aspects than just granularity alone. Overall, orthogonal light scatter serves as a powerful tool in distinguishing different cell types based on their complexity and variety of components.

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