211: CE: Hematology essentials: maximizing the value of the CBC

The Vet Blast Podcast

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Program Description:
In this case-based session, we will discuss the hematologic analysis of Mac, a critically ill Greyhound mix, as we dissect the details of his CBC and blood film review that decode an interesting twist to a cool case with a suspenseful ending.

Program Agenda:
o Introduce Mac’s case
o Signalment
o History
o Presenting complaints
o PE findings
o Discuss hematology basics
o Sample quality
o Sample collection tips
o Proper sampling handling
o In-depth review of Mac’s CBC results
o Anemia of inflammatory disease
o Inflammatory leukogram
o Bands as the hallmark of inflammation
o Glucocorticoid/stress leukogram
o Contrast with epinephrine leukogram pattern
o Discuss blood film basics
o Importance of fresh blood film
o Technical tips
o Basics of blood film review
o Discuss findings from Mac’s blood film review
o Toxic change in neutrophils to signify systemic inflammatory process
o Mastocythemia
o Review ACVIM retrospective study on mastocythemia in dogs and cats
Learning Objectives:
1. Understand importance of sample quality and handling to accurate hematology results
2. Analyze each individual component of the CBC
3. Review leukogram patterns
4. Correlate CBC data with key microscopic findings from the blood film review
5. Evaluate morphologic changes of neutrophils consistent with toxicity
6. Learn clinical significance of mastocythemia
7. Discuss ancillary diagnostics performed in response to key CBC changes