Test Name: Blood Film
Formal Name: Peripheral Blood Smear
Other Names: Peripheral Blood Smear, Blood Film
Normal cells vs. abnormal shapes (sickle cells, target cells), infections (malaria), or abnormal counts.
Why Test: To evaluate red and white blood cells and platelets under a microscope.
When to Test: Anemia, abnormal CBC results, or suspected malaria.
Test Principle: Microscopy (Wright-Giemsa stain).
Q1: Can it detect leukemia? A1: Yes, immature white blood cells (blasts) often appear on the smear. Q2: Does it show malaria? A1: Yes, parasites are visible inside red cells.
