Abnormal white blood cell (WBC) morphology, seen in a blood smear analysis, can indicate various underlying conditions. These include infections, deficiencies in vitamins like B12 or folate, or even blood disorders.
White Blood Cells
Leukocytosis
Leukocytosis: High white blood cells, body’s response to infection or inflammation. Not a disease itself.
White Blood Cells (WBCs)
White blood cells (WBCs), also known as leukocytes, are the body’s dedicated defense force. These diverse warriors, patrolling the bloodstream and tissues, play a crucial role in the immune system.
Lymphocytes
Lymphocytes are essential white blood cells that help protect the body from infections and diseases. They come in three main types: B cells, T cells, and NK cells, each with its unique role in the immune system.
Neutrophils
Neutrophils are white blood cells crucial for fighting infections. They engulf and kill bacteria through phagocytosis. Learn about neutrophilia, neutropenia, and their role in immune health.
Monocytes
Monocytes are large white blood cells that play a crucial role in the immune system. They are responsible for phagocytosis, antigen presentation, and inflammation. Elevated or decreased monocyte counts can be indicative of various diseases.
Myeloperoxidase Reaction (MPO) Stain
A stain mainly used to differentiate AML from ALL and gives a bluish to brownish tinge in cells with lysosomal enzyme.
May Grunwald Giemsa (MGG) Staining
MGG stain is an intense Romanovsky stain to help with the visualisation of bone marrow smears.
Hodgkin Lymphoma & Reed-Sternberg
Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, and is characterized by the presence of large, abnormal lymphocytes called Reed-Sternberg cells.
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a cancer of the blood cells that begins in the bone marrow. It is caused by a genetic abnormality that results in the production of too many white blood cells.
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a type of cancer that affects white blood cells called B lymphocytes. In CLL, B lymphocytes become abnormal and grow uncontrollably. This can lead to fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and easy bruising or bleeding. CLL is a slowly progressing cancer affecting mainly the elderly
Acute Leukemia: An Overview
At the heart of acute leukemia lies a disruption of the genetic blueprint, the DNA that carries the instructions for building and maintaining healthy cells. When these instructions become corrupted, through mutations or deletions, the normal development and function of blood cells are derailed.