Abstract

Aims: Spurious platelet counts can be found in acute leukaemias, as a result of the fragmentation of blood cells. Microscopic examination of a blood smear should be performed to detect the presence of these so called pseudoplatelets. When present, the platelet count should be corrected because of the important clinical consequences that a lower platelet count may have in these patients.

Methods: K₃EDTA anticoagulated blood was measured on an automated blood cell counter, and a blood smear was made and stained according the May Grünwald–Giemsa method for microscopic observation. A 500 cell/particle differentiation was performed and the automated platelet count was corrected.

Results: The incidence of pseudoplatelets in 169 patients with acute leukaemia was studied. Pseudoplatelets were detected in 43 patients (25.4%), and seven patients (4.1%) were re-classified as having a major bleeding risk (platelet count, < 15 × 10⁹/litre).

Conclusions: Platelets should be determined morphologically in patients with acute leukaemia and a routine screening method for the detection of pseudoplatelets should be developed.