Published Paper Details:

BACKGROUND : Changes in blood cell morphology occur easily, even after short periods of time in storage. Microscopic evaluation of a peripheral blood smear is one of the most beneficial tests to identify morphological changes. But anticoagulant-induced artefacts could lead to misinterpretation of the smears. By 2 hours, changes may be discernible, and by 24 hours, they become striking. In our topic, we will discuss how long EDTA can preserve morphology and determine the best time to preserve blood samples.. METHOD : Thin smears were made immediately at the time of blood collection (0 hr) and after 2, 6, 12, and 24 hours of storage at room temperature. Smears stain with Leishman's stain and are observed under a microscope to check the morphology of cells.RESULT : The present study included 30 blood samples. Smears were prepared at 0 hours, 2 hours, 8 hours, and 24 hours using the venous blood collection method with EDTA anticoagulant. There are no other significant morphological alterations or artefacts observed in direct smears (0 h). Two-hour smears from EDTA did not show any artifactual changes. 8-hour and 24-hour smears from EDTA showed significant morphological artefacts on storageCONCLUSION: By collecting blood samples in EDTA anticoagulant and storing them over time, our investigation has found that significant morphological changes occur in RBC, WBC, and platelet. This could lead to an inaccurate estimation and a wrong diagnosis