Peripheral Smear Examination
Understanding Peripheral Smear Examination
What is Peripheral Smear Examination?
Peripheral Smear Examination test evaluates the different components of the blood. The smear evaluates the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets as well as other abnormalities such as the presence of parasites. The blood smear test is ordered to diagnose the cause of unexplained jaundice, unexplained anemia, unknown fever, and severe infection.
The number and the appearance of blood cells can be affected by a variety of diseases such as the smaller size of RBCs may indicate a type of anemia whereas increased number of WBCs may indicate infection.
A blood smear test is said to be normal when the sample contains an optimum number, size and shape of blood cells. The results are considered abnormal when cells have an abnormality in shape, size, and number.
What is Peripheral Smear Examination used for?
The peripheral smear examination is done:
In case of signs or symptoms of anemia such as weakness, fatigue, pale complexion, unexplained jaundice, and enlargement of the spleen.
In case the results of complete blood count or WBC differential is abnormal.
In case of signs or symptoms of conditions affecting red blood cell production.
Interpreting Peripheral Smear Examination results
Interpretations
The abnormal results depend upon the type of blood cell affected.
The abnormal red blood cells can be seen in conditions like:
Iron deficiency anemia
Sickle cell anemia
Hemolytic uremic syndrome
Polycythemia rubra vera
The abnormal white blood cells can be seen in conditions like:
Acute or chronic leukemia
Lymphoma
Hepatitis C virus infection
HIV
Viral infections like Dengue
Fungal infections such as candidiasis
Parasitic infections such as pinworm
Other lymphoproliferative diseases
The abnormal platelets can be seen in conditions like:
Thrombocytopenia
Myeloproliferative disorders
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Peripheral Smear Examination
Frequently Asked Questions about Peripheral Smear Examination
Q. What are the signs and symptoms of a blood disorder?
Q. What conditions can affect the red blood cells?
Q. How is the blood sample taken?
Q. Is there any risk associated with the withdrawal of blood sample procedure?
Q. What type of RBCs irregularities can be seen on a smear in case of a condition affecting the RBC?
Q. What conditions can affect the absolute or relative number of WBCs and their appearance?
Q. In what conditions abnormal size of platelets can be seen?
Q. What additional tests are advised in case of abnormal results are seen on the blood smear?
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