Peripheral blood smear examination
Quick answer: A peripheral smear is a thin layer of blood on a glass slide, stained and examined under a microscope to look at the shape and type of blood cells. It is ordered when a blood count is abnormal, to look into anaemia, infections such as malaria, or blood disorders.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1Blood is drawn into an EDTA tube or taken by finger prick
- 2A drop is spread thinly on a glass slide
- 3The slide is dried and stained
- 4A pathologist examines the cells under a microscope
What your results can mean
Reading your report
The report describes what the cells look like; your doctor will explain what the findings mean.
If the result is outside the usual range
The smear can show the type of anaemia, abnormal white cells such as in leukaemia, low or clumped platelets, or parasites such as malaria. A normal smear makes many blood disorders less likely.
Who usually has this test
People with abnormal blood counts, unexplained anaemia or jaundice, or suspected blood infections.
Risks and aftercare
Bruising is possible, and you can return to your normal routine.
Names and options
Also called: PS, peripheral smear, blood smear, PBS
Listed by the hospital as
- PERIPHERAL SMEAR EXAMINATION
Questions about this test
Why is a smear done when a CBC is already done?
Machines count cells but cannot always describe their shape. A smear shows details that help find the cause of an abnormal count.
Can a peripheral smear find leukaemia?
It can show abnormal cells that suggest leukaemia. A bone marrow test and other tests are used to confirm it.
Is a smear useful in anaemia?
Yes, red cell shape and size can point to lack of iron or B12, thalassaemia, or red cell breakdown. This helps doctors choose the next tests.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.