[Morphologic analysis of blood cells]

Accompanying hematology laboratory automation, the frequency of morphological observation of blood cells tends to decrease. Although 5-part differentials are performed by automated systems, counting of abnormal cells such as immature cells or leukemia cells still must be performed manually using smears. In the automated hematology laboratories, technicians more frequently find abnormal cells than before. Therefore, poor microscopic observation of blood cells markedly affects the diagnosis. Continuous training of the technologist is mandatory. Also, preparation of smear samples is important, i.e, well prepared slides must be stained properly with an appropriate dye. Technicians must be familiar with staining technology together with the knowledge of the characteristics of several staining methods. On the other hand, the technician's ability to differentiate white blood cells depends on the instructor's knowledge. This makes quality control and the standardization of differentials difficult. Still the problems must be solved under the cooperation of the various societies concerned.