Why is a peripheral smear test done? What conditions does it test for?
1 Answer
A peripheral smear test (PST) is a type of blood test that is done to procure detailed information about the number and shape of blood cells.
Explanation:
The PST focuses on the RBC's, WBC's, and platelets, and provides information about the number and shape of these cells. It helps doctors diagnose certain blood disorders or other medical conditions. PST is often used as a tool to monitor numerous conditions and blood diseases that affect population of blood cells. A PST is usually ordered as a follow up test, when the complete blood test reveals abnormal results.
A PST is ordered to diagnose the cause of :-
- unexplained jaundice, fever or anaemia
- low levels of RBC's
- abnormal bruising, pale complexion or excessive bleeding
- persistent flu like conditions, severe infection, skin rashes,
excessive fatigue and weakness or sudden weight loss
- enlargement of spleen
- hairy cell leukaemia and for the purpose of monitoring chemo
therapy
