Overview: Blood Picture Peripheral Smear Test
Introduction: The Blood Picture Peripheral Smear Test examines blood cells to diagnose anemia, infections, or blood cancers, causing fatigue or frequent infections. Following 2023 ASH guidelines, it uses microscopy for high specificity, aiding in hematological screening. This test is critical for guiding diagnosis, treatment, and improving outcomes in hematology for patients with suspected blood disorders.

Other Names: Peripheral Blood Smear Assay, Blood Morphology Test.

FDA Status: Laboratory-developed test (LDT), meeting hematology standards for diagnostic accuracy.

Historical Milestone: Peripheral smear testing began in the 1800s with microscopy. Staining techniques improved in the 1900s, and by the 2000s, automated microscopy enhanced diagnostic precision.

Purpose: Diagnoses anemia, infections, or blood cancers, guides treatment, and monitors blood cell morphology in patients with fatigue or infections.

Test Parameters: 1. Peripheral Blood Smear

Pretest Condition: No fasting required. Collect peripheral blood smear at any time. Report symptoms like fatigue or infections, and list medications like chemotherapy agents.

Specimen: 1-2 peripheral blood smear slides. Prepare slides immediately after collection. Transport in a slide holder within 24 hours.

Sample Stability at Room Temperature: 24 hours

Sample Stability at Refrigeration: 48 hours

Sample Stability at Frozen: Not frozen

Medical History: Document fatigue, infections, or family history of blood disorders. Include current medications, especially chemotherapy or antibiotics.

Consent: Written consent required, detailing the tests purpose, diagnostic implications, and potential need for further hematological testing.

Procedural Considerations: Uses microscopy to examine blood cell morphology. Results are available in 1-2 days, enabling rapid clinical decisions.

Factors Affecting Result Accuracy: Poor slide preparation or delayed transport can affect cell morphology. Medications like chemotherapy may alter results.

Clinical Significance: Abnormal blood cell morphology confirms anemia, infection, or leukemia, prompting specific treatments. Normal results suggest alternative diagnoses.

Specialist Consultation: Consult a hematologist for result interpretation. An oncologist referral is advised for suspected blood cancers.

Additional Supporting Tests: Complete blood count, bone marrow biopsy, or flow cytometry to confirm blood disorders or assess disease extent.

Test Limitations: Subjective interpretation may vary. Results require clinical correlation with other hematological tests.

References: ASH Hematology Guidelines, 2023; Blood, Tefferi A, 2022.