Hematological parameters: is there a difference between those released by the hematological analyzer and to the customer?

Objective: This study aimed to compare the hematological parameters released by hematological analyzers with those released in customer reports.

Methods: We conducted a descriptive study in the laboratories of a medium-sized municipality in the state of Minas Gerais registered in the National Register of Health Establishments. Interviews were conducted using a questionnaire to obtain information regarding the parameters released by the analyzers and those available in the customer's report.

Results: Sixteen laboratories were evaluated, and none of them released all the parameters obtained from the hematological analyzers to customers. The red blood cell distribution width was released in 88% of the laboratories, atypical lymphocytes in 70%, mean platelet volume in 50%, platelet distribution width and platelet count in 20%. No laboratory released information on reticulocytes, fraction of immature reticulocytes and immature granulocytes, nucleated erythrocyte count, immature platelet fraction and reticulocyte hemoglobin, and large platelet rate.

Conclusion: All evaluated clinical analysis laboratories had at least one parameter that was not released in the customer's report despite being released by the hematological analyzers. The lack of knowledge on the part of professionals about the clinical importance of each parameter of the complete blood count results in a loss in patient assessment, and it is important to include these parameters in the complete blood count report.