The RDW value in a blood test describes more than just the size of the red blood cells. It gives doctors important clues about your health, including whether you might have anemia, nutrient deficiency, or … What is RDW in a blood test? What it tells you about your health beyond red blood cell sizeRead more
Hematology
Pre-analytical errors in hematology: Small mistakes that skew big results
Pre-analytical errors in hematology occur during the preparation and delivery of samples, and many healthcare professionals overlook their frequency. The errors are surprisingly common and account for approximately 60-70% of all laboratory-related mistakes. While these … Pre-analytical errors in hematology: Small mistakes that skew big resultsRead more
How to differentiate between microcytic anemia and macrocytic anemia in the lab
This article focuses on the differences between microcytic anemia and macrocytic anemia in the laboratory, from detecting anemia through a complete blood count (CBC) to classifying and understanding the underlying cause of anemia. Anemia is … How to differentiate between microcytic anemia and macrocytic anemia in the labRead more
Blood Group Test Price in Kenya: Prices and locations
The blood group test price in Kenya ranges from KES 100 to KES 1,800 depending on the hospital facility or laboratory. Blood group test is one of the routine tests in hospitals in Kenya and … Blood Group Test Price in Kenya: Prices and locationsRead more
Full Hemogram Components and Interpretation
Components and Interpretation of a Full Hemogram Result. A full hemogram, a complete blood count (CBC), provides a comprehensive snapshot of one’s blood composition. This blood test encompasses various parameters illuminating the circulatory system’s physiological … Full Hemogram Components and InterpretationRead more
What is the Weak D Antigen? Cause, Rarity, and Clinical Significance
While weak D antigen phenotypes may seem straightforward, their complexity lies in their diverse etiologies and variable clinical outcomes. From single-point mutations in the RHD gene to inherited alterations in the RhD protein, the causes … What is the Weak D Antigen? Cause, Rarity, and Clinical SignificanceRead more
Diff-Quik staining procedure, principle, and results
Differential Quick Staining or Diff-Quik staining is a rapid technique used in clinical laboratories for the microscopic examination of blood and bone marrow smears. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of the Diff-Quik … Diff-Quik staining procedure, principle, and resultsRead more
Wright-Giemsa stain procedure, principle, and results
Histological stains facilitate the microscopic examination of tissues and cellular structures. Among these stains, the Wright-Giemsa stain stands out as a crucial tool in diagnosing and studying blood disorders. Understanding the intricacies of the Wright-Giemsa … Wright-Giemsa stain procedure, principle, and resultsRead more
Indirect Coombs test in pregnancy
The Indirect Coombs test in pregnancy, or the Indirect Antiglobulin test, is a pivotal tool in obstetrics, offering invaluable insights into blood compatibility during pregnancy. It is crucial in ensuring the mother’s and infant’s health … Indirect Coombs test in pregnancyRead more
Leishman Stain Composition, Uses, Preparation, Function
Leishman staining, crafted by Scottish pathologist William Boog Leishman in the 19th century, is essential in characterizing blood cells, diagnosing hematological disorders, and revealing parasitic infections. The staining method uses two components: methylene blue and eosin, which selectively color cell structures, allowing for visual scrutiny under a microscope. Extensively used in biomedical applications, it diagnoses blood disorders, identifies different blood cell types, and detects parasitic infections. However, while advantageous, its limitations include time consumption, subjectivity in interpretation, and health and safety concerns.