WHAT IS BLOOD C/E WITH PERIPHERAL SMEAR LAB TEST?
The blood used on the slide for a blood smear contains red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Examination of the blood smear can be used to support findings from other tests and examinations.
WHAT DOES THE TEST MEASURE?
A blood smear is a close-up of the cells that are present in the blood. The blood smear allows for the evaluation of these cells:
- White blood cells — help fight infections or participate in immune responses
- Red blood cells — carry oxygen to the tissues
- Platelets — small cell fragments that are vital to proper blood clotting
These cells are mainly produced and mature in the bone marrow and are eventually released into the bloodstream as needed
How is the test performed?
The test is performed on a blood sample, blood is drawn from a vein or by pricking the finger, in the case of an infant, a heel stick.
Is there any risk associated with this test?
No significant risk associated with this test. A small bruise or mild soreness around the blood test site is common and can last for a few days.
What diseases can a blood c/e detect?
- Anemia and its types
- Bacterial infections
- Viral infections
- Leukemia
What are the symptoms of anemia?
The most common symptoms of anemia are:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Shortness of breath
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULT:
Red Blood Cell Count (RBC)
Males: 4.3 - 6.2 x million/μL
Females: 3.8 - 5.5 million/μL
Infant/Child: 3.8 - 5.5 million/μL
Hemoglobin
Males: 13.2 - 16.2 gm/dL
Females: 12.0 - 15.2 gm/dL
White Blood Cell Count (WBC)
Differential Leucocyte Count
Neutrophils - 35-80%
Lymphocytes - 20-50%
Monocytes - 2-12%
Eosinophils - 0-7%
Basophils - 0-2%
Platelet Count
1.5 - 4.5 lacs/μL
WHY GET TESTED?
Peripheral smear lab test is usually ordered:
- To evaluate red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
- To distinguish between the different types of white blood cells, and to determine their percentages in the blood.
- To help detect and diagnose a number of diseases, involving blood cell production and function.
