A Blood Film Examination, also called a Peripheral Blood Smear Test, is a microscopic evaluation of blood cells. It is used to examine red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets to detect blood disorders, infections, and abnormalities in cell shape, size, or number.
Why is the Blood Film Examination Done?
Doctors recommend this test to:
- Diagnose anemia (iron deficiency, sickle cell anemia, or hemolytic anemia).
- Detect malaria, bacterial infections, or blood parasites.
- Evaluate blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma.
- Monitor blood disorders such as thalassemia.
- Assess unexplained symptoms like fatigue, fever, bruising, or prolonged bleeding.
Test Procedure
- Blood Sample Collection
- A blood sample is drawn from a vein (usually in the arm).
- A thin layer of blood is spread on a glass slide.
- Staining and Microscopic Examination
- The slide is stained with a special dye (e.g., Wright’s stain or Giemsa stain).
- A laboratory specialist examines the sample under a microscope to assess cell structure, size, shape, and abnormalities.
Blood Film Examination (Peripheral Blood Smear Test)
