Thank you to all clinics that provide blood smears together with their EDTA samples for CBC testing.
An essential part of any complete blood count is the examination of a blood smear. The blood smear may provide more information concerning the patient’s diagnosis or state of treatment than any other blood test. All EDTA blood samples submitted to the laboratory should be accompanied by a fresh blood film.
A blood smear made at the time of sample collection ensures we can see if possible leukocyte deterioration in the EDTA is masking inflammatory changes. So please make a smear and send them in with your EDTAs.
If you need to brush up on your technique, check out this “HOW TO” on our website, or call your local laboratory – they’ll be happy to show you how.
