Test Overview
Test Methodology

Microscopy

Test Usage

To determine the presence of clinically significant changes in red blood cell morphology, including hemolytic indicators such as schistocytes and spherocytes.

Reference Range *

No significant RBC morphology noted. Note: This includes the absence of hemolytic indicators such as schistocytes and spherocytes.

* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Daily, 24 hours
Analytic Time

4 - 8 hours

Soft Order Code
MDRBC
MiChart Code
Red Blood Cell Morphology
Synonyms
  • RBC Morphology
  • RBCMF
  • RBC-MORPH
  • Schistocytes
  • Peripheral Blood Smear Evaluation
  • PB Smear
  • Peripheral Smear
Laboratory
Hematopathology
Section
Hematology
Specimen Requirements
Collection

Liquid EDTA K3 collection tubes are not acceptable and will be rejected due to possible dilutional effects.

Collection Instructions

Collect specimen in a lavender top EDTA K2 Vacutainer® tube or EDTA K2 Microtainer® tube. Send intact within 8 hours of collection if stored at room temperature or if stored refrigerated.Two unstained peripheral smears made from the specimen at the time of collection may be submitted concurrently if transport cannot be done within 8 hours, in which case the specimen must be received within 24 hours kept at room temperature, or 48 hours if refrigerated. NOTE: Blood smear preparation cannot be done on specimen more than 8 hours old due to increased cellular degeneration. This may result in the Red Blood Cell Morphology being canceled.

Alternate Specimen
Any EDTA K2 collection tube is acceptable, including, but not limited to Pink top EDTA K2 and Tan top EDTA K2 tubes.
Normal Volume
3 ml EDTA K2 whole blood in Vacutainer® tube or 500 µl EDTA K2 whole blood in Microtainer® tube
Minimum Volume
1 ml EDTA K2 whole blood in Vacutainer® tube or 300 µl EDTA K2 whole blood in Microtainer® tube
Rejection Criteria
Specimens clotted, diluted with IV fluid, containing fibrin strands and clumped platelets, or in underfilled or improper tubes will be rejected.
Additional Information

If a Complete Blood Count (CBC) or Complete Blood Count with Differential (CBCD) has not been requested, a CBC will be added at an additional charge. Test may include pathologist interpretation of results at an additional charge. By ordering this test, the clinician acknowledges that a pathologist interpretation will be performed and billed as a separate additional charge if indicated.

Billing
CPT Code
85008
Fee Code
21622