Red Cell Morphology: A Necessary Tool For Rapid and Accurate Assessment of Anemias

Course Author:
Robert V. Pierre, MD, FASCP
Emeritus Professor of Internal Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
Emeritus Professor of Pathology, University of Southern California Medical School, Los Angeles, CA

MOC^[?]: MK
Intended Audience: Pathologists, Residents, Pathologist Assistants, Medical Technologists, Medical Laboratory Technicians, Students

Various factors have contributed to the decline of expert knowledge of red cell morphology among laboratory personnel. This eCourse seeks to redress this trend through an in-depth discussion of laboratory evaluation of anemia.

Fewer medical technologists, the increasing reliance on medical technicians and the lack of time spent by pathology and clinical hematology-oncology residents and fellows are among the factors for the decline in red cell morphology knowledge. To bridge this gap, this eCourse covers how red cell morphologic findings and pattern analysis can be used to rapidly identify, differentiate and classify macrocytic, microcytic and normocytic anemias and red cell abnormalities.

Furthermore, you’ll learn how certain findings such as for macrocytic anemia should trigger the search for other red cell, white cell and platelet findings to lead to a specific morphologic diagnosis. To provide accurate interpretation of morphologic findings, particularly since only rare specific diagnoses can be made on the basis of morphologic features alone, this eCourse emphasizes the importance of correlating clinical information with morphologic findings. Additionally, the use of Bessman MCV and RDW, automated reticulocyte count and IRF (Immature Reticulocyte Fraction) in classifying and evaluating anemias will be described.

The ASCP designates these educational activities for a maximum of 4 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activities.

These activities meet MOC Part II Lifelong Learning requirements. These activities meet MOC Part II Self-Assessment Module requirements.

ASCP designates these activities for a maximum of 4 CMLE credits. These activities meet CMP and state licensure requirements for laboratory personnel.