Name of the Procedure:

Blood Smear (Peripheral), Interpretation by Physician with Written Report Common name(s): Peripheral Blood Smear, Blood Film, Manual Differential

Summary

A peripheral blood smear is a test that involves spreading a small sample of blood thinly onto a glass slide and examining it under a microscope. It allows a physician to evaluate the number and appearance of blood cells, diagnosing various conditions affecting the blood.

Purpose

This procedure addresses conditions such as anemia, infections, and blood disorders. The goal is to provide detailed information on the blood cells' shape, size, and quantity to assist in diagnosing and managing medical conditions.

Indications

• Unexplained anemia or fatigue
• Persistent infections or fever
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Suspected blood disorders (e.g., leukemia, sickle cell disease)

Preparation

• No special preparation is usually required.
• Patients may be advised to inform the physician of any medications they are taking.

Procedure Description

1. A blood sample is collected, usually from a vein in the patient's arm.
2. A drop of blood is placed on a glass slide and spread thinly.
3. The slide is stained with special dyes to enhance the visibility of blood cells.
4. The stained slide is examined under a microscope by a trained physician.
5. The physician evaluates the blood cells' appearance and counts the different types of cells.
6. A written report is generated with the findings and an interpretation.

Tools used: Glass slide, microscope, staining dyes.

Anesthesia: Not required.

Duration

The entire process, from blood collection to the completion of the written report, typically takes a few hours to a day, depending on lab processing times.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic
• Hospital laboratory

Personnel

• Phlebotomist (for blood sample collection)
• Laboratory technician (for slide preparation and staining)
• Physician or hematologist (for microscopic examination and report generation)

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risk associated with blood sample collection, including slight pain or bruising at the puncture site.
• Rare risk of infection at the puncture site.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of various blood disorders.
• Essential information for creating effective treatment plans.
• Results available relatively quickly, aiding prompt medical intervention.

Recovery

• No specific recovery required.
• Resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results and next steps.

Alternatives

• Automated blood analyzers for initial screening.
• Bone marrow biopsy for more detailed analysis in certain cases.
• Genetic testing in specific blood disorders.

Pros and Cons:

• Peripheral Blood Smear: Provides detailed cell morphology; manual process can detect abnormalities that automated machines might miss.
• Automated Blood Analyzers: Faster results but may not detect all abnormalities.

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel a quick pinch during the blood draw.
• Minimal discomfort after the procedure.
• No significant pain expected post-procedure.