Peripheral Blood Smear (PBS)
PBS is a microscopic examination of a blood smear. Evaluates size, shape, and appearance of red cells, white cells, and platelets. Diagnoses anemia types, detects parasites (malaria), and identifies blood cancers.
Test Information
Reports In
Same day (6 hours)
Parameters
1
Requisites
Blood Sample
Sample Type
Blood
Measures
Microscopic examination of blood cells
Identifies
Anemia type, infection, blood disorders, malaria
What is the PBS Test?
A Peripheral Blood Smear (PBS) involves spreading a thin layer of blood on a glass slide and examining it under a microscope. Unlike the automated CBC, a trained pathologist visually inspects the shape, size, and appearance of your blood cells. This is critical when CBC results are abnormal — it helps identify conditions that machines alone cannot detect, such as malaria parasites, sickle cells, or blast cells (immature cancer cells).
Why Should You Take This Test?
Visual inspection reveals what automated CBC cannot – cell morphology, parasites, and abnormal cells. Essential for anemia classification.
Who Should Get Tested?
Abnormal CBC Results
When automated counts show abnormalities needing visual confirmation.
Suspected Malaria
Direct visualization of malarial parasites in blood.
Suspected Blood Cancer
Identifies abnormal blast cells.
Undiagnosed Anemia
Cell morphology helps classify the type of anemia.
Warning Signs — When Should You Get This Test?
Common Conditions Detected
Frequently Booked Together
Tests commonly ordered alongside PBS for a complete picture
CBC
PBS is always interpreted alongside CBC
Reticulocyte Count
Assesses bone marrow response to anemia
Iron Profile
If microcytic anemia is found on smear
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