Blood Film Examination

Test information: To find out if red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are normal in appearance and number; to distinguish between different types of white blood cells and to determine their relative percentages in the blood; to help diagnose a range of deficiencies, diseases, and disorders involving blood cell production, function and destruction; to monitor cell production and cell maturity in diseases such as anaemia, leukaemia, during chemo/radiation therapy, or in the evaluation for haemoglobin variants.

Specimen Type(s)

• Blood;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

N/A

Specimen Container - Adult

• Purple Top BD;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Purple Top Microtainer BD;

Analytes

• N/A;

Part of a test profile?

No

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

4ml

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

The decision to look at a blood film is dependent on age, sex, any relevant medical history, previous FBC results or if a previous blood film has been reviewed. If there is a clinical need for blood film review, alert the laboratory by clearly stating the reason on the request form. Correct storage of the sample prior to delivery to the laboratory is important, as blood cells will start to deteriorate in just a few hours if exposed to heat.

Maximum add on time

24 hours

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

Cell count

UKAS number

8869

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

Clumped, Hypogranular (Agranular) and Giant platelets.

If you have any queries about a test or results interpretation please contact us.