It is interesting that some errors in hematology laboratory can give sign and clue to disease diagnosis: in this review we have gathered some of these common errors.
For example: lymphocytosis in association with smudged cell can be helpful in diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Smudged cell is a lab artifact that is produced by spreader pressure during smear preparation.
Extreme false thrombocytosis in presence of microcytic and hypochromic anemia strongly suggest hemoglobin H disease.
The platelet satellitism that is an in vitro phenomenon, is sometimes accompanied with antiphospholipid syndrome.
Turbidity of drabkin solution in hemoglobin measurement can lead to suspecious of hemoglobinopathies.
Golafshan H, Ranjbaran R. Laboratory errors that give clues to diagnosis of hematological diseases. , 3. 2013; 5 (21) :5-10 URL: http://labdiagnosis.ir/article-1-30-en.html