What causes the appearance of artifacts in blood samples?

What causes the appearance of artifacts in blood samples?

• A. Natural biological variations
• B. Laboratory handling or processing
• C. Bacterial contamination
• D. Improper blood sampling technique

Answer: (B)

The appearance of artifacts in blood samples is primarily caused by laboratory handling or processing. Artifacts can arise during various phases of sample preparation, including inadequate mixing, the use of inappropriate anticoagulants, or exposure to external conditions such as temperature changes. For example, if a blood sample is not mixed thoroughly, the cellular components may settle, leading to inaccurate representation of the sample when observed under a microscope. Additionally, factors such as the choice of slide preparation techniques, drying times, and even the materials used in pipetting can introduce distortions in the sample. These artifacts can manifest as changes in cell morphology, unrealistic cell structures, or unexpected coloration that do not reflect the true composition and health of the blood. Understanding that these artifacts often result from laboratory processes emphasizes the importance of maintaining secure protocols and meticulous techniques during sample handling and processing to ensure accurate diagnostic results.

The appearance of artifacts in blood samples is primarily caused by laboratory handling or processing. Artifacts can arise during various phases of sample preparation, including inadequate mixing, the use of inappropriate anticoagulants, or exposure to external conditions such as temperature changes. For example, if a blood sample is not mixed thoroughly, the cellular components may settle, leading to inaccurate representation of the sample when observed under a microscope.

Additionally, factors such as the choice of slide preparation techniques, drying times, and even the materials used in pipetting can introduce distortions in the sample. These artifacts can manifest as changes in cell morphology, unrealistic cell structures, or unexpected coloration that do not reflect the true composition and health of the blood.

Understanding that these artifacts often result from laboratory processes emphasizes the importance of maintaining secure protocols and meticulous techniques during sample handling and processing to ensure accurate diagnostic results.