Practical and Interpretative Haematology

At the end of this course, students should be able to: 1. describe how to correctly fill the relevant request forms in haematology and blood transfusion; 2. explain specimen collection, types of specimen bottles and anticoagulants used in haematology and blood transfusion; 240 3. explain interpretation of common haematological tests, and technique, indications and complications of bone marrow examination; 4. describe competence and skills in performing common haematological tests and identification of common haematology laboratory equipment including their uses; 5. explain principles and interpretation of haemoglobin electrophoresis, sickling; 6. describe solubility tests and HPLC for Hb genotyping; 7. list indications, technique and complications of bone marrow aspiration cytology and trephine biopsy; and 8. demonstrate equipment used in haematology diagnostic laboratory.

Filling haematology and blood transfusion request forms. Specimen handling, transportation and processing. Types of specimen bottles and anticoagulants used in haematology and blood transfusion. Interpretation of common haematological tests. Full blood count, clotting profile including INR, ABO and Rh blood grouping. Direct and indirect Coomb’s test. Analytical procedures. Principles of haemoglobin and haematocrit estimation, blood films and staining WBC and platelet counts. Film of SS and SC patients, film of iron-deficiency and megaloblastic anaemia. E.S.R. estimation. Tests for thrombin time, PT/INR/PTTK estimation of fibrin degradation products. Principles and interpretation of haemoglobin electrophoresis, sickling and solubility tests and HPLC for Hb genotyping. Indications, technique and complications of bone marrow aspiration cytology and trephine biopsy. Demonstration of equipment used in haematology diagnostic laboratory. 500 Level