The laboratory professional notes about 20% spherocytes on a peripheral blood smear of a 4-year-old boy.An osmotic fragility test is performed.The control shows initial hemolysis at 0.50% NaCl and complete hemolysis at 0.35% NaCl.The patient sample has initial hemolysis 60% NaCl and complete hemolysis at 0.45% NaCl.What does this indicate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient sample's osmotic fragility test shows increased fragility compared to the control, indicating that the patient is exhibiting increased osmotic fragility. This can be a sign of certain blood disorders, such as hereditary spherocytosis or autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), but further testing would be needed to confirm a diagnosis. The fact that 20% spherocytes were noted on the peripheral blood smear further supports the possibility of a hemolytic anemia. The control results are within normal limits, so the patient results are valid.

The Laboratory Professional Notes About 20% Spherocytes on a Peripheral