Peripheral Blood Leukocyte Aggregate Count (Qualitative Smear Examination)
This test examines the appearance of white blood cells (leukocytes) under a microscope from a blood sample. It helps identify abnormal cell shapes, clusters, or other features that may signal infection, inflammation, or other conditions.
["A qualitative blood smear check can reveal clues about your health beyond standard blood counts."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74347-6
- Short code
- Leukocyte aggregates Bld Ql Smear
- Synonyms
- Leukocyte aggregates Bld Ql Smear
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4
- Ref high
- 10
- Critical range
- — – 100 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms like unexplained fever, persistent fatigue, or unusual bruising. It can also help diagnose conditions such as infections, blood disorders, or immune system issues by observing cell morphology in detail.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted to draw blood from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood sample is then spread thinly on a microscope slide for examination.
What Happens During the Test?
After drawing blood, the sample is sent to a lab where a trained technician stains the cells and examines them under a microscope. The focus is on identifying abnormal leukocyte shapes, clusters, or counts that may not be detected by routine blood tests.
What Are the Possible Results?
Results are qualitative (descriptive) rather than numerical. You’ll receive a report noting whether the leukocyte appearance looks normal or if there are signs of abnormalities such as increased or decreased cell types, clustering, or unusual shapes.
Reference range
NCBI: WBC 4000-10000/mm³N/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Leukocyte smear (qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
What does a leukocyte smear tell me about my health?
How often should I get this test?
Can I prepare for this test in any way?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy