123k views
1 vote
A Wright-Giemsa stained preparation was made of a bone marrow aspirate. The photomicrograph is representative of what was observed in other fields of view. Note the clearing around the cells. What does the clearing around the cells signify?

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

The clearing around the cells in a Wright-Giemsa stained preparation signifies a normal halo space or could indicate a pathological condition if excessive and unusual. NK cells and lymphocytes display dark-stained nuclei, aiding in the identification of cell types and infections. Pathogens or abnormalities can be further confirmed with additional staining methods like Gram stains.

Step-by-step explanation:

The clearing around the cells in a Wright-Giemsa stained preparation of a bone marrow aspirate typically signifies the presence of halo or clear space, which is often seen around normal blood cells in a well-prepared slide. However, if the clearing is unusual or excessive, it could indicate the presence of a pathologic process or artifacts. Careful observation of cells using a Wright-Giemsa stain can reveal morulae, which is an observable structure within cells that can indicate an infection. Observing various white blood cell populations, evaluating red blood cells and platelets, and looking for evidence of stealth microbes are all key considerations when examining a stained blood smear microscopically.

In clinical practice, a Wright-Giemsa stain is employed to discern morphological details in blood smears. Lymphocytes like NK cells, which have large nuclei that absorb this stain well, appear dark under the microscope, which aids in the identification of specific cell types and potential pathogens. If an infection is suspected, additional techniques, such as a Gram stain and microscopic evaluation, may provide further diagnostic clues.

User NilColor
by
7.3k points