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Spurious leukopenia due to in vitro granulocyte aggregation
1Department of Pathology, Charles A. Dana Research Institute, Beth Israel Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02215.
American Journal of Clinical Pathology
|May 1, 1988
Summary
This study describes two patients with spurious leukopenia, a false low white blood cell count caused by neutrophil aggregation in lab tests. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for accurate blood analysis.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Clinical Pathology
Background:
- Leukopenia, characterized by a reduced white blood cell count, can indicate various underlying health issues.
- Accurate laboratory diagnostics are essential for correct patient management.
Observation:
- Two cases presented with spurious leukopenia, a laboratory finding not reflecting the true in vivo neutrophil count.
- This pseudoleukopenia was attributed to in vitro aggregation of neutrophils during blood sample processing.
Findings:
- Neutrophil aggregation in vitro can lead to falsely low automated white blood cell counts.
- The phenomenon highlights the importance of recognizing artifactual results in hematological analysis.
Implications:
- Clinicians should be aware of in vitro neutrophil aggregation as a cause of spurious leukopenia.
- Further investigation into the mechanisms and prevalence of this artifact is warranted for improved diagnostic accuracy.