Final answer:
EDTA should not be used for analyzing WBC morphology as it can cause cell swelling which interferes with accurate assessment. Citrate or heparin are preferable alternatives that do not significantly alter WBC appearance.
Step-by-step explanation:
For the analysis of white blood cell (WBC) morphology, the anticoagulant of choice should not alter the appearance of the cells under microscopic examination. The most commonly used anticoagulant that can cause distortion in WBC morphology is EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid). When blood samples are treated with EDTA, it can lead to swelling of the cells, which may interfere with the assessment of their true morphological characteristics. Therefore, EDTA should not be used if analyzing WBC morphology is the main focus of the blood test.
In contrast, anticoagulants like citrate or heparin are generally less likely to result in significant changes to WBC morphology. Sodium fluoride is primarily used as an anticoagulant and glycolysis inhibitor in glucose studies and is not typically associated with morphological changes in white blood cells.