ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews proper collection and handling of reptilian blood samples, laboratory procedures, normal morphologic features of blood cells, and hemogram changes associated with various disease conditions. Blood sampling represents an invasive procedure, and as such, there is associated pain and risk of bacterial infection. The total amount of blood that can be safely obtained from a reptile depends upon the reptile's size and health status. A variety of sites have been used by different clinicians and researchers to obtain blood from chelonians. Blood samples are also commonly obtained from the scapular vein, brachial vein, and brachial artery of chelonians, depending on size, species, behavior, and possibilities of restraint. Blood cells of reptiles include erythrocytes, granulocytes, mononuclear leukocytes (lymphocytes, monocytes; azurophils in some species), and thrombocytes. Blood films should be prepared immediately after collection and sent to the laboratory along with the anticoagulated whole blood.
