Abstract: A system for generating a profile of particulate components of a body fluid sample is provided. The system includes: (a) a device for causing controlled flow of the body fluid sample on a substrate, the controlled flow of the body fluid sample leading to a differential distribution of the particulate components on the substrate; and (b) a magnifying device being for providing a magnified image of differentially distributed particulate components on the substrate, the magnified image representing a profile of the particulate components of the body fluid sample.

Abstract: A fluid sample carrier is provided. The fluid sample carrier includes at least one lane occupying a length, and a portion of a width, of a surface of the carrier. The lane is sized and configured such that a fluid sample deposited thereupon would flow within the lane upon exertion of a directional force upon the fluid sample. The fluid sample carrier is also designed to prevent contamination of the apparatus in which it is held.