Peripheral blood smears - An innovative Review

The peripheral blood film (PBF) is a laboratory work-up that involves cytology and somehow cell morphology of blood cells. As basic as it is, PBF is invaluable and of great use in the characterization of various clinical diseases. This article highlights the basic science and art of importance behind the PBF. It expounds its laboratory applications, clinical indications and interpretations in the light of various clinical and sub clinical diseases. Despite advances in hematology automation and application of molecular techniques, the PBF has remained a very important diagnostic tool to the hematologist and clinician. A good quality blood smear, thorough examination and proper interpretation prognosed and diagnosed with patient's clinical state should be ensured by the clinical-pathologist. Clinicians should be abreast with its clinical utility and proper application of the reports in the management of patient's state and care.