Optimization of criteria for verification of automated platelet counts generated by the sysmex XE-2100 hematology analyzer

Background: Verification of automated platelet counts by blood smear examination is necessary but time consuming. This study was undertaken to optimize the criteria for performing platelet scans. Methods: Platelet scans were performed on 796 blood smears made from specimens that were either flagged for (a) platelet abnormal distribution or PAD (group I), (b) platelet clumps or CLP (group II), (c) PAD + CLP (group III), or (d) had a platelet count below 100,000/μL (group IV). Based on the findings of the platelet scans, a percent positive yield was determined for each group of specimens. Results: Percent positive yields of 8.9, 30.0, 35.3, and 1.9 were obtained from platelet scan findings for groups I, II, III, and IV, respectively. Conclusions: Optimal criteria for performing platelet scans excluded the PAD flag and the follow-up platelet counts below 100,000/μL but included specimens flagged for CLP and the initial platelet counts below 100,000/μL.