Factors interfering with the cell morphology in smears.
Factors interfering with the cell morphology in smears were studied. The following artifacts were observed: Lysis of cells with release of granules, cytoplasmic and nuclear proteins; fern-like structures due to detachment of protein from glass; rupture of the surface of smears; crystal formations; leakage from cells interfering with the surrounding medium; cell shrinkage, vacuolization; and aggregation of cells caused by gammaglobulins. The concentration and type of plasma protein in the medium greatly influenced the type of artifacts. The technique by which the least artifacts occurred, was cytocentrifugation of cells suspended in a cell protecting medium.
D001773:Blood Cells / Q000166:cytology*; D002449:Cell Aggregation; D002467:Cell Nucleus; D003460:Crystallization; D003593:Cytoplasm; D006801:Humans; D009504:Neutrophils / Q000166:cytology; D014617:Vacuoles