Possibilities and limitations of platelet counting methods

Abstract

Currently, the use of hematological analyzers makes it possible to quickly and accurately count the number of platelets in the vast majority of blood samples. In some cases, the automatic determination of this indicator may be incorrect, due to the limitations of the methods used. Monitoring the results of automatic platelet count is necessary when obtaining pathological values and is carried out by microscopic examination of a peripheral blood smear. The article describes the methods and limitations of automatic determination of the number of platelets, possible causes of erroneous counting and ways to correct the result. Morphological descriptions of the most common artifacts that affect the correct definition of this indicator are presented. Modern methodological approaches to solving the problem of correct platelet counting in EDTA-dependent pseudothrombocytopenia are highlighted.