Differential blood count with smear

Blood Morphology with Smear – What is This Test?

Blood morphology with smear is the most essential and basic diagnostic test. It is a blood analysis that allows for the assessment of the number, size, and shape of different blood cell types—red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes). A blood smear provides a more detailed examination of white blood cells by categorizing them into specific types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils).

The automatic blood morphology with smear test includes measurements of the following parameters:

• hemoglobin concentration,
• hematocrit,
• platelet count,
• leukocyte count (categorized into the 5 populations mentioned above),
• erythrocyte count,
• red blood cell indices: MCV – mean corpuscular volume, MHC – mean hemoglobin content, MCHC – mean hemoglobin concentration in red blood cells.

Blood Morphology with Automatic Smear – Indications

Blood morphology with automatic smear is one of the basic diagnostic tests that provides detailed health information. It is recommended both as part of preventive care and in the diagnosis of various conditions. Indications for this test include suspected diseases such as:

• anemia,
• infections,
• inflammatory conditions,
• cancers,
• other hematological disorders.

By assessing red blood cells and their indices, the test can identify types of anemia and monitor treatment for anemia and other blood disorders.

This test is also useful in diagnosing inflammatory conditions and cancers, as blood morphological parameters can change long before visible symptoms of the disease appear.

Symptoms suggesting the need for blood morphology with an automatic smear include chronic fatigue, sleep problems, unexplained weight loss, pale skin, easy exhaustion, shortness of breath after minor exertion, dizziness, and general body pain. While these symptoms are often nonspecific, they may indicate serious disorders, making blood testing a crucial first step in identifying and treating potential diseases.

Procedure for Blood Morphology with Smear

The blood morphology with smear test involves collecting a blood sample, typically drawn from a vein in the crook of the elbow. Blood collection takes only a few seconds.

How to Prepare for the Test?

Blood tests should be performed on an empty stomach, meaning no food should be consumed for 8-12 hours prior to the test (drinking water is allowed). On the day of the test, physical activity should be avoided. It is also recommended to rest in a seated position for about 15 minutes before the sample is taken.

Some medications can affect blood morphology results, so it is advisable to consult with a doctor regarding the possible need to discontinue or adjust medication doses prior to the test.

Blood Morphology with Smear – Normal Ranges

Each parameter measured during peripheral blood morphology with smear has specific normal ranges. These values vary depending on the patient’s age, sex, and overall health condition.

What is the difference between a blood test and a blood smear morphology? 

A blood test is a basic examination that evaluates the quantity and quality of the main blood elements. A blood smear provides additional information about the shape, size, and proportions of different types of white blood cells. 

What does a blood test with a smear detect? 

A blood test with a smear can help detect many diseases, including: 

• anemia; 

• leukemia; 

• viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections; 

• inflammatory diseases; 

• autoimmune diseases; 

• thrombocytopenia; 

• cancers. 
   

How much does a blood test with a smear cost? 

The cost of a blood test with a smear varies depending on the facility and region, but typically ranges from 20 to 50 PLN. In many cases, the test can be performed for free as part of health insurance, if prescribed by a doctor. 

What is a blood test with a smear? 

A blood test with a smear is a blood examination that provides detailed information about different types of blood cells, analyzing their quantity, size, and shape. A blood smear allows for a more detailed examination of white blood cells by dividing them into different types, helping to better understand the patient's health and aiding in the diagnosis of many diseases. 

How does a blood test with a smear differ from a regular one? 

A basic blood test measures the overall number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. A blood test with a smear adds a more detailed analysis of white blood cells, dividing them into five types and evaluating their proportions. The smear allows for a more precise evaluation of infection or inflammation and is helpful in diagnosing blood diseases that a regular blood test may not detect. 

Do you need to fast before a blood test with a smear? 

Yes, it is recommended to fast before a blood test with a smear to obtain accurate results. The last meal should be eaten at least 8-12 hours before the test, and it is also advised to avoid coffee, tea, and other beverages (except water) before blood collection. 

5 diff morphology vs 3 diff morphology – what is the difference? 

The human blood consists of morphological elements (cells, platelets, and other cells) and plasma. The number of each type of cell is usually measured automatically (by a hematology analyzer). "5 diff" morphology means that leukocytes will be divided into 5 groups: neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes. There is also a "3 diff" morphology, which divides them into just 3 groups.

Learn more:  

• MCV - morfologia krwi, wyniki, norma 

• Anemia w ciąży — diagnostyka i leczenie niedokrwistości kobiet w ciąży