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A full blood count consists of haemoglobin, total white cell and differential counts, platelets and full red cell indices. All of these values are provided using a single EDTA sample. Please note that if venepuncture is difficult and mixing with anticoagulant delayed, micro-clot formation may cause a falsely low platelet count. If the full blood count results are abnormal or there is a specific indication on the request form, a blood film will be stained and examined microscopically.
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This is the standard haematological inflammatory marker, performed in the laboratory, although CRP is the preferred test (Biochemistry request). The ESR may be performed on the same EDTA sample sent for FBC if sufficient.
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The following referred tests should be requested on a Haematology request form and the Department will make arrangements to send the sample on.
The Department offers a comprehensive haemoglobinopathy screening service, however occasionally samples are referred for further analysis or confirmatory testing. Laboratory staff will refer samples if appropriate.
Unidentified haemoglobin variants
Pyruvate Kinase
Pyruvate Kinase assays are referred to Hammersmith Hospital. Please discuss with a Consultant Haematologist prior to requesting this test.
Kings College Hospital,
Red Cell Centre,
Red Cell Protein Laboratory,
Blood Sciences Laboratory,
Ground Floor Bessemer Wing,
King’s College Hospital,
Denmark Hill,
London SE5 9RS
When a positive malaria result is obtained we are required to refer blood films to the Malaria Reference Laboratory.
Dept Special Haematology,
Hammersmith Hospital,
Du Cane Rd
London W12 OHS
Written by Craig Webster on .
If the full blood count results are abnormal or there is a specific indication on the request form, a blood film will be stained and examined microscopically. Blood films are spread and stained by a UKAS accredited automated method however in the event of analyser failure blood smears will be manually spread and stained which is currently an unaccredited procedure. Blood films requiring clinical comment will be referred to a Haematology Consultant or Registrar. Delay or marked temperature changes in transit can affect morphology.