ABSTRACT
The ubiquity of automated cell counters, with their computerized digital and graphical displays summarizing patient laboratory data, facilitates clinician awareness and interpretation of such important quantitative leukocyte changes. However, evaluation of qualitative leukocyte abnormalities requires nonautomated human action; indeed, the review of a peripheral blood film by an experienced “morphologist” is the single most useful laboratory evaluation performed in hematology (1). It is crucial that important information regarding leukocyte abnormalities evident within the blood film be communicated from the laboratory to the critical care practitioner.
