LGL
Large granular lymphocytic leukemia (LGL): rare form of leukemia secondary to lymphoma. Primary tumors (large granular lymphosarcoma) usually arise in the abdominal cavity (spleen, liver, GI tract, lymph nodes). Secondary… Read more LGL →
CLL
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL): increased numbers of small mature lymphocytes with normal morphology on blood smear. CLL may look identical to non-neoplastic lymphocytosis on visual evaluation (non-neoplastic causes of lymphocytosis… Read more CLL →
ALL
Acute lymphocytic/lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL): markedly increased numbers of immature lymphoblasts on blood smear (lymphocytosis usually greater than 150 x 109/L). Lymphoblasts are large cells with prominent nucleoli and dark blue… Read more ALL →
Exotics
Avian: mature erythrocytes are oval cells with pink-orange cytoplasm and a dark blue nucleus located centrally. Immature erythrocytes have a round shape, a lighter blue nucleus, and light blue cytoplasm. Avian erythrocytes… Read more Exotics →
Platelet Clumps
Morphology: clusters of numerous platelets. Platelets in clumps may be granulated (non-activated) or degranulated (activated). Look alike: clumps of degranulated platelets must be differentiated from strands of fibrin. Platelet clumps may be embedded… Read more Platelet Clumps →
Giant Platelet
Also called: macroplatelet Morphology: very large platelets (larger than red blood cells). Morphology may be normal or abnormal depending on underlying cause. Clinical relevance: giant platelets are often (but not always) immature… Read more Giant Platelet →
Normal Platelets
Morphology: platelets are small anucleate cells with round to oval shape and small pink or red cytoplasmic granules. Normal platelets are smaller than red blood cells. Canine platelets are moderately… Read more Normal Platelets →
Trypanosomes
Morphology: elongated organism with undulating membrane, dark nucleus located centrally, small round purple dot (kinetoplast) located at anterior end, and flagellum extending from posterior end. Usually seen in a curved C… Read more Trypanosomes →
Cells and Smears 