What is a peripheral blood smear used for?
A blood smear, also referred to as a peripheral smear for morphology, is an important test for evaluating blood-related problems, such as those in red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets.
Why is peripheral blood smear evaluation important?
However, microscopic evaluation of peripheral blood smears affords clinicians additional data that may be used to guide diagnosis and treatment. Examining the monolayer of a well-prepared and properly stained blood smear allows veterinary technicians to assess erythrocyte (RBC), leukocyte (WBC) and platelet morphology.
When do you have a peripheral blood smear?
You may need a blood smear if you have abnormal results on a complete blood count (CBC). A CBC is a routine test that measures many different parts of your blood. Your health care provider may also order a blood smear if you have symptoms of a blood disorder.
What diseases require a peripheral blood smear and why?
Common clinical indications for peripheral blood film analysis include unexplained cytopenia: anaemia, leucopenia or thrombocytopenia; unexplained leukocytosis, lymphocytosis or monocytosis; unexplained jaundice or haemolysis; features of congenital haemolytic anaemias such as splenomegaly, jaundice or bone pains; …
What are the important considerations in the preparation of a perfect peripheral blood smear?
It takes considerable practice to consistently make perfect blood smears. The handmade wedge or thin slide is the most commonly prepared blood film. Three factors may be altered slightly to produce a perfect blood smear: speed, angle and drop size.
Why are blood smears performed?
A blood smear is often used as a follow-up test to abnormal results on a complete blood count (CBC) to evaluate the different types of blood cells. It may be used to help diagnose and/or monitor numerous conditions that affect blood cell populations.
What conditions can be evaluated using the peripheral blood smear?
What is a peripheral blood?
Peripheral blood, the blood circulating throughout the body, is an important starting material for many scientists. The cellular components of peripheral blood include erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells), and thrombocytes (platelets).
What is the appropriate sample used for preparing a peripheral blood smear?
Well-made peripheral smears can be prepared by starting with only a drop of blood at one end of a clean glass slide. The drop is smeared lightly and quickly with a wedge technique so as to leave a thin “feather” edge where all cells may be examined individually, particularly red blood cells.
What disease require peripheral blood smear?