The blood film test is conducted to look for disorders in the blood cells. It is also known as the Peripheral Blood Film (PBF) or the Blood Smear Test and majorly focuses on the three main blood cells of the body –
- The red blood cells (RBCs) that function as oxygen carriers throughout the body.
- The white blood cells (WBCs), which help in fighting infections and inflammatory diseases.
- The platelets, which are extremely necessary for blood clotting.
The PBF test gives vital information on the count and shape of the main blood cells so that doctors can diagnose blood disorders or other medical conditions. Today, with numerous pathology labs established in India, it has become easier for everyone to get the tests done. Some pathology labs offer at-home services as well, where the phlebotomists come to your house to collect the blood sample; you might have to book an appointment earlier for the same. Check for top-rated pathology labs in your city before getting the test conducted for the best results.
How Irregularities Can Affect the Body
The RBCs are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Any irregularities in the count or shape of the red blood cells can affect the oxygen level. Commonly, red blood cell abnormalities are caused due to the deficiency of minerals or vitamins. However, if you have any inherited medical condition like sickle cell anaemia, it may contribute to irregularities in the RBCs.
The white blood cells are extremely vital for the immune system. A network of tissues and cells, the WBCs help in fighting off any infection or inflammatory diseases that occur in the human body. Irregularities in the white blood cells will weaken your immune system and lead to an inability to eliminate and control any infections in the body. Irregularities in the white blood cells may also lead to disorders in the platelets as well. The platelets present in the body help in blood clotting and abnormalities in the platelets affect their ability to clot which leads to excessive loss of blood or profuse bleeding.
Symptoms that Indicate You Need a Blood Film Test
If you or any of your family member show the following symptoms, get the blood film lab test done immediately –
- Sudden anaemia i.e. low levels of RBCs
- Abnormal bruising (anywhere in the body)
- Regular flu-like symptoms
- Sudden loss in weight
- Severe infection
- Skin rashes or wounds
- Persistent pain in the bones
- Jaundice
What the Results Indicate
The PBF test results may vary depending on the blood cell that has been affected. If the red blood cells are affected, the disorders include –
- Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome – commonly caused by an infection in the digestive system.
- Iron Deficiency Anaemia – a disorder that restricts the formation of red blood cells because of iron deficiency.
- Polycythemia Rubra Vera – occurs due to the excessive formation of RBCs in the body.
If the white blood cells are affected, the disorders include –
- Acute or chronic leukaemia –a common type of blood cancer.
- HIV –an infection in the WBC caused by a virus.
- Lymphoma – another type of cancer, which mainly affects the immune system.
- Pinworm – a form of parasitic infection.
- Candidiasis – a type of fungal infection.
- Hepatitis C
- Lymphoproliferative diseases– like multiple myeloma, etc.
Platelet disorders include –
- Thrombocytopenia – a disorder that occurs when the platelet count is low because of an infection or any other disease.
- Myeloproliferative – a group of disorders, which leads to the abnormal growth of blood cells in the bone marrow.
The blood film lab test also helps in checking for other conditions like liver disease, hypothyroidism, kidney diseases, and so on.