A Beginner's Guide to Blood Cells

by Barbara J. Bain

A Beginners Guide to Blood Cells is a straightforward text for those just beginning to learn how to examine blood films. No prior knowledge is descriptions of haematological conditions begins with normal cells, then explanations of the terms commonly used in describing blood cells, followed by descriptions of abnormal findings. The trainee is shown how to examine a blood film, how to recognise any abnormality present, and how to interpret abnormalities in a clinically relevant way. Additionally, a simple explanation of the full blood count and a table of normal ranges is also provided. A Beginners Guide to Blood Cells will help laboratory scientists-in-training in their introduction to the diagnostic haematology laboratory, as well as students taking degree courses in Laboratory technology and g raduates beginning their haematology lab training.

109 pages, Paperback

First published January 15, 1996

Reviews

[Am Y]

Very comprehensive, and not a very easy read, to be honest, due to the extremely heavy use of jargon. Covers common blood disorders/conditions/symptoms (e.g. neutropenia, lymphocytosis, etc) and discusses possible causes as well, but doesn't mention cancer treatment (e.g. chemo) as a possible cause of said symptoms and whether this is should be cause for concern or not. Includes tables of "normal" blood count figures for Caucasian and Afro-American males & females, but not for Asians or other racial groups.

[DAIMONx]

Beginner friendly. Organised and easy to grasp with good blood film examples and quizzes. Useful for learners’ (with med tech background) to build their foundation.

[Ângela Maresch]

I just ended reading it, and already want to read it again! This is an excelent introduction to any newby in haematology (or - specially - lab medicine), starting at the very basics and then referring to the morphological and epidemiological peculiarities in each disease. Finally there is a short but useaful section meant for "Self Accessment", where Barbara challenges the reader to complete some exercises. It's really the best way to start! *****