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An Introduction to the Complete Blood Count for Clinical Chemists: Red Blood Cells.

Maximo J Marin¹, Xander M R van Wijk², Paul D Boothe¹

¹Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.

The Journal of Applied Laboratory Medicine

|April 22, 2024

Summary

This review covers red blood cell tests within the complete blood count (CBC), explaining their role in diagnosing anemia and polycythemia. It aims to build essential expertise for clinical chemists managing diverse laboratory sections.

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Area of Science:

Hematology
Clinical Chemistry

Background:

The complete blood count (CBC) is the most frequently ordered laboratory test globally.
This primer focuses on the red blood cell components of the CBC.

Purpose of the Study:

To introduce red blood cell test components of the CBC.
To discuss the laboratory evaluation of anemia and polycythemia.
To support clinical chemists in expanding their expertise beyond traditional clinical chemistry.

Main Methods:

Review of red blood cell parameters in CBC.
Discussion of diagnostic approaches for anemia.
Discussion of diagnostic approaches for polycythemia.

Main Results:

Provides foundational knowledge on CBC red blood cell indices.
Outlines key laboratory methods for evaluating anemias.
Outlines key laboratory methods for evaluating polycythemias.

Conclusions:

Clinical chemists require broader expertise, including hematology.
This review serves as a resource for developing essential skills in hematological analysis.
Enhancing laboratory management capabilities for clinical chemists is crucial.