MAKE-ROSCOPE: Accuracy and Practicability of Commercially-Available Keychain Microscope

Abstract

Microscopy is vital in clinical education, including peripheral blood smears (PBS) analysis. This study evaluated the commercially available keychain microscope's accuracy, practicability, and effectiveness for potential use in educational settings. A mixed-methods research design was utilized, involving 50 licensed professionals (48 Registered Medical Technologists and 2 Pathologists) from the Municipal Health Units of Bacnotan, Balaoan, Bangar, City of San Fernando, Luna, San Gabriel, San Juan, Santol, and Santo Domingo, Ilocos Sur, as well as from La Union Medical Diagnostic Center and Hospital, Inc. (LUMED), the Philippine National Police (PNP) – Vigan City, and Metro Vigan Cooperative Hospital. Participants assessed the same PBS sample using both the commercially available keychain microscope and a traditional compound microscope. Results showed that while the keychain microscope was significantly less accurate in visualizing cell morphology (p < 0.05), it was rated highly for practicability, especially for ease of use and portability. However, effectiveness in terms of image contrast, sharpness, and structural visibility was considerably lower than that of the traditional microscope. The traditional compound microscope remains the preferred tool for precise cell analysis, which indicates there is a statistically significant difference in favor of the traditional compound microscope in terms of accuracy and effectiveness. Thus, while the keychain microscope serves as a low-cost, accessible option for introductory microscopy instruction, it is best used as a supplementary tool in school-based laboratory education.