This article provides an overview of key findings in abnormal white blood cell morphology observed during a peripheral blood smear analysis. Understanding these abnormal white blood cell morphological changes can aid in diagnosing various underlying conditions.

Basophils are the least numerous of all white blood cells – you may have to look several fields to find one. And that’s it! When you start looking at different diseases (like infection, or leukemia), it gets a bit more complicated, because you often see immature cells out in the blood.

White blood cell estimates on the smear provides a good quality control measure that helps to validate the total white blood cell count provided by the Hematology analyzer.

A peripheral blood smear (PBS) test is a technique healthcare providers use to examine your red and white blood cells and your platelets under a microscope. Your healthcare provider may order a peripheral blood smear along with a complete blood count (CBC).

Are white blood cell abnormalities associated with disease? An abnormal number and/or distribution of leuko-cytes (WBC) may be seen in disease. Immature WBC and/or WBC with abnormal alterations may also be seen. The immature and abnormal cells are distinguishable from normal cells by their morphologic characteristics.