Peripheral Blood Smear Test

A peripheral blood smear test is performed in individuals experiencing the following symptoms:

• Reduction in the number of erythrocytes
• Fatigue and dizziness throughout the day
• Constant or intermittent fever experienced after travelling through a developing country or contact with ticks
• Jaundice, ie yellowing of the eyes and skin
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Easy bruising and frequent nosebleeds
• Pain in bones
• Pale complexion
• Spleen enlargement

Rarely, this test helps detect contact with parasites or its carriers; for example, individuals who reside in an area with a high number of mosquitoes are at a higher risk of developing malaria.
A variety of diseases can affect the appearance as well as the number of different blood cells. Therefore, a peripheral blood smear is useful in the diagnosis of numerous conditions, such as

• Bone marrow disorders
• Blood cancer
• Anaemia
• Myeloproliferative neoplasms

This test is also valuable for determining the blood cell count after chemotherapy.

Although no special preparations are required for this test, ask the doctor if you need to fast before going for the test. If you are taking any medicines, including herbs, vitamins and nutritional supplements ensure that your doctor is aware of them. Also, inform the doctor if you are taking any non-prescription drug or illegal drugs.

It is a simple test that involves the collection of blood from a vein in your arm or hands. The blood sample can also be obtained by pricking the finger in adults. A stinging sensation or pain is experienced when the needle is pricked into the skin.

A heel stick is used to collect a blood sample from infants.

Some risks associated with blood tests include infection, bleeding, a feeling of faintness and bruising. Slight soreness may also be experienced at the site of injection.

Results of this test vary based on the age, sex and medical and clinical status of the individual. Therefore, consulting a doctor is ideal for the correct interpretation of results. A doctor will interpret your results based on the symptoms observed.
Results of a blood smear test may not always diagnose the condition; it only reveals the details of the appearance of blood cells and the presence of any abnormalities in these cells. Though it may often indicate the possibility of an underlying condition. Thus, further tests will be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Normal results: