Color Atlas of Hematology: Illustrated Field Guide Based on Proficiency Testing

This is a great addition to the books used to teach new techs.

I just discovered this book at the hospital during my clinical rotation in the hematology department. I am happy yet sad that I just now found this awesome resource. I'm wondering why this book isn't mandatory for all lab professionals. What's really great about this book is that it explains what kind of cell you are looking at and how to distinguish it from other cells that it may be confused with. This is especially important for students learning to do differentials. I was having a hard time distinguishing between reactive lymphs, large lymphs, and monocytes. Those differences may seem obvious in a textbook, but in a real blood smear, can become muddled. "Is this a promyelocyte? How can I tell?" "Is that an auer rod of just an artifact?" "Is this really pelger-huet?" "How many smudge cells are significant?" Those types of questions are clearly explained in this book. I really like how it has the different variations of the cells. This actually came up today. I didn't understand what to call a "giant" platelet. This book shows the different types of platelets to be considered "giant". The same goes for any cell type. Very important information when it comes to immature cells. This book is also good for students because hematology can be very subjective. One tech might call the cell "this" when another calls it "that". This book takes much of the guess work out of it. I know now that when I come across a cell that I am unsure of, I can look up what I think it is, and mostly find out. Right there along with the correct cell may be one that you confused it with and why the two are different. That's flippin' awesome! Immediate feedback. No flipping through the index or wondering why the cells are different. The hematology atlas we had in school pales in comparison. The hospital where I am training has this as a resource and I want one for myself. You will not be disappointed.

This should be mandatory for all MLT/MLS students. I’m in clinical rotation and saw this in hospital lab. I was blown away!!!

This is the best hematology atlas that I have come across. All of the cell morphologies are explained in a clear manner with wonderful illustrations. It has really helped a lot of clinicans and gets used a lot in the lab and wish that it was required back when I was a student to make learning easier. Despite its expensive cost, I still highly recommend it for both students and professionals.