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A blood film is a crucial diagnostic tool in hematology. It provides visual insights into the morphology of blood cells, aiding in the diagnosis of various hematologic and systemic conditions. Below is a detailed guide to common terms used in blood film interpretation, their meanings, and potential clinical significance.
Term | Meaning | Possible Significance |
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Anisocytosis | Variation in red cell size |
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Poikilocytosis | Variation in red cell shape |
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Macrocytosis | Raised red cell volume (MCV) |
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Microcytosis | Reduced red cell volume (MCV) |
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Rouleaux | Stacking of red cells resembling "chains" |
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Agglutination | Clumping of red cells |
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Spherocytes | Small, round red cells |
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Elliptocytes | Rod-shaped red cells |
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Target Cells | Red cells with a central dark spot |
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Polychromasia | Large, basophilic red cells |
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Howell-Jolly Bodies | Nuclear remnants in red cells |
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Heinz Bodies | Denatured hemoglobin |
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Burr Cells | Irregularly crenated red cells |
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Acanthocytes | Spiky red cells |
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Schistocytes | Red cell fragments |
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Left Shift | Presence of immature white cells (myelocytes, metamyelocytes) |
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Right Shift | Hypersegmented neutrophils |
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Toxic Granulation | Increased granules in neutrophils |
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The blood film provides essential morphological details that complement other hematological tests, enabling precise diagnosis and management of various conditions. Correlation with clinical history and additional investigations is critical for accurate interpretation.