Peripheral blood film is also referred to as peripheral blood smears. It entails looking at blood cell morphology under the microscope. It is a very important tool in diagnosing blood – related disorders of the white blood cell, red blood cell, and platelet.

It provides quick, reliable information about several hematologic disorders.

1)It helps to diagnose the causes of unexplained anaemia.

2)It is useful in diagnosing blood cancers such as leukaemias, lymphomas, multiple myeloma

3)Diagnosis of red cell disorders like sickle cell anaemia, hereditary elliptocytosis, hereditary ovalocytosis, hereditary stomatocytosis, iron deficiency anaemia, megaloblastic anaemia,and immune haemolytic anaemia.

4) Evaluation of thrombocytopenia and thrombocytosis.

5)Diagnosis of infection (bacteria, and malaria)

6)It help raise suspicion of DIC, chronic liver, and renal disease.

Dr Enifeni E.K

Consultant Pathologist

WellMed Healthcare.