Spurious rise in the automated platelet count because of bacteria
- Correspondence to: Dr N Kakkar Department of Pathology, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana-141 008, Punjab, India; n_kakkarsatyam.net.in
- Accepted 20 April 2004
Abstract
The era of automation in haematology, although improving the accuracy and precision of results, has also introduced the laboratory haematologist to a vast array of spurious parameters. The identification of these results is important so that inappropriate management decisions are avoided. The case presented here illustrates a spuriously raised automated platelet count resulting from bacterial overgrowth in the blood sample.
