Background

Anaemia is a major global health problem, particularly prevalent in India, affecting both men and women and contributing to significant morbidity. Automated complete blood count (CBC) analyzers have improved accuracy and efficiency in anemia evaluation, providing red cell indices and histograms. However, conventional peripheral blood smear (PBS) examination remains indispensable for identifying morphological abnormalities, parasites, and subtle red cell changes that may be missed by automation. Hence, correlating automated CBC with PBS helps in validating and complementing diagnostic accuracy.

Methodology

This is an observational, analytical, prospective study conducted in Central Clinical Laboratory section of Pathology Department at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Sawangi (Meghe) over two years. A total of 365 anaemia patients (as per WHO criteria) will be included. Blood samples will be processed using an automated hematology analyzer (Beckman Coulter DXH 800) to obtain hematological parameters and RBC histograms. Parallel peripheral blood smears will be prepared, stained with Leishman stain, and assessed by two independent observers blinded to CBC data. RBC morphology, WBCs, and platelets will be documented. The findings of automated CBC will be compared with PBS for categorization of anemia (microcytic, normocytic, macrocytic; normochromic/hypochromic). 

Conclusion

The study aims to establish the correlation between automated CBC analysis and peripheral smear examination in anemia characterization. The outcome is expected to highlight the strengths and limitations of automation, reaffirming the continued relevance of PBS in identifying morphological abnormalities. The findings may help optimize diagnostic protocols by combining both methods for more accurate classification of anemia in clinical practice.