Untitled Flashcards Set

What does MCV represent in a blood test?

MCV indicates the size of red blood cells.

What does MCH tell us in a blood test?

MCH tells the amount of hemoglobin per red blood cell.

What does MCHC indicate?

MCHC indicates the color of red blood cells based on hemoglobin concentration.

What are the formulas for the X3 Rules in hematology?

RBC x 3 = HGB ± 3, HGB x 3 = HCT ± 3.

What should be considered if the X3 Rules do not work?

Consider instrument error, sample problems, or patient condition.

Is it normal for MCV to change drastically?

No, a drastic change may indicate testing a wrong patient; a repeat test is recommended.

Is MCHC over 360 g/L possible?

No, MCHC should not exceed 360 g/L and warrants investigation.

What can cause MCHC to appear elevated?

Causes include spherocytes, interference from sample or instrument problems, false results from cold agglutinins due to lipemia, or plasma interference from severe hemolysis.

How can lipemia be fixed in a laboratory setting?

By performing a saline replacement, replacing lipemia with saline.

What are histograms in hematology?

Histograms are 2D graphs representing frequency distribution based on electrical impedance, counting cells of varying sizes.

What are scatter plots/cytograms in hematology?

3D graphs from optical measurements of flow cytometers that determine size, shape, and complexity to differentiate WBCs.

What does forward scatter represent in a scatter plot?

Forward scatter represents cell size.

What does low angle scatter indicate in a scatter plot?

Low angle scatter indicates external complexity of cells.

What does high angle scatter show in a scatter plot?

High angle scatter shows internal complexity of cells.