Abstract
Background and objetiveAlthough examination of peripheral blood smear is a very helpful tool in the diagnosis of several pathologies, it is essential that the person who performs it knows the patient clinical data and what to look for in order to obtain the highest benefit. The aim of this study is to determine the proportion of useful blood smears in clinical practice and to identify possible predictive factors. Patients and methodsWe prospectively analysed 618 consecutive peripheral blood smears performed in our laboratory, requested by 6 hospitals in Madrid. Clinical features provided by the physician and abnormalities in complete blood count (none / white cells / red cells / platelets / all of them) were evaluated in each case. According to the information obtained from them, blood smears were classified into: a) non-diagnostic; b) a previously-known diagnosis is confirmed, and c) new relevant information provided. ResultsNo useful information was obtained by 402 (65.04%) blood smears. A higher proportion of previous clinical suspicions was observed in helpful blood smears compared to non-diagnostic ones (20% vs 5.1%, P<.001), and also less for completely normal blood counts (3.8% vs 42.7%, P <.001). ConclusionsIn our experience, two thirds of requested peripheral blood smears provide no useful information at all. Clinical suspicion and the presence of at least one abnormality in complete blood count showed a significant impact in blood smear yield.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call