Blood Film Morphology - A Practical Guide from Coursera

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Syllabus

Course Introduction

This 'Course Introduction' Module 1 describes the background to the blood film. It provides you with an overview of what takes place in a laboratory when a film of blood is analyzed. '1.1 - Course Overview' describes the background to the blood film. It explains how a FBC analyser works in '1.2 - The Analyser' and the potential sources of error in analyser results. It then explains which blood counts should trigger the making of a blood film and how that blood film is made in '1.3 - Importance of Making a Blood Film'. The '1.4 - A methodical approach to blood film analysis' lesson ends by suggesting and demonstrating a systematic method for blood film analysis. Module 1 ends with a graded 'End of Module 1 Quiz' for you to complete and a supplementary reading list.

Red Cell Morphology

This 'Red Cell Morphology' module takes you through a systematic method of examination of red cell morphology. It starts with a basic approach in '2.1 Red Cell Morphology Basics', then examines red cell quantity and red cell quality in '2.2 Describing Microcytic, Macrocytic and Normocytic Anaemias in blood films' and '2.3 Recognising and describing common poikilocoytes'. At each step, you are taught a method, provided with the theoretical framework for interpreting abnormalities, and shown examples of abnormalities highlighting their clinical significance in '2.4 Recognising and describing red cell inclusion'. 'The 'Red Cell Morphology' Module ends with a graded 'End of Module 2 Quiz' and a supplementary reading list.

White Cell Morphology

This 'White Cell Morphology' Module 3 takes you through a systematic method of examination of white cell morphology, following the template for blood film analysis in '3.1 A framework for analysing white cell quantitative disorders'. It starts by examining problems of white cell quantity, then examines the many important variants of white cell quality by using a a unique structured process for analysing an abnormal white cell population in '3.2 Analyzing an abnormal leukocyte population'. This takes you through the morphology of reactive white cells, lymphoproliferative diseases, leukaemias and myelodysplasia in '3.3 Analysing lymphoproliferative disorders', '3.4 Analysing acute leukaemias' and '3.5 Examining qualitative changes in white cells' . At each step you are taught a method, provided with the theoretical framework for interpreting abnormalities, and shown examples of abnormalities highlighting their clinical significance. You will be required to complete a grade End of Module 3 quiz and look up the supplementary reading list.

The 4Ps of Morphology - Platelets, Pregnancy, Paediatrics and Parasites

This '4Ps of Morphology - Platelets, Pregnancy, Paediatrics and Parasites' module deals with an assortment of important specific areas of blood film morphology. It first completes the systematic analysis of the blood film by discussing quantitative and qualitative changes in platelets in '4.1 Platelets (Thrombocytopenia & Thrombocytosis)'. In '4.2 Pregnancy', we then discuss the important physiologic and pathologic changes in the FBC and film during pregnancy. The '4.3 Paediatric' lecture emphasises that children are not just little adults by showing how the normal ranges for the FBC and normal appearance of films can differ at different ages, and then discussing a framework for morphologic diagnosis in paediatric anaemia, thrombocytopenia and pancytopenia. The '4.4 Parasite' lesson concludes with a review of malaria – demonstrating the lifecycle of the parasite, the morphologic appearance of different species, and a system to distinguish between different species. You are expected to complete a graded 'End of Module 4' quiz and look up the supplementary reading list.

Live Blood film analysis - Putting it all together

In this 'Live Blood Film Analysis - Putting it all together' module, we demonstrate the use of our method for blood film analysis using videos of real slide examinations for the five cases. The presentation format for each case is similar: each case starts by providing a case history and full blood count (FBC) parameters. You are encouraged to consider a differential diagnosis (DDx) for each case. We will follow the template for blood film analysis. Finally we arrive at a morphologic conclusion and ask you how you can help the clinician reach a diagnosis based on the blood film. The case studies are not assessed. However, viewing them is necessary to see how we apply our method and integrate the concepts taught in Module 1 - 4. As this is a module putting everything you have learned together in individual case studies, there will be no graded 'End of Module 5 quiz' for you to complete

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Helps learners develop a systematic method for blood film analysis, which is a common procedure in hematology laboratories and essential for diagnosing blood disorders

Provides learners with a solid foundation in blood film analysis, including red cell morphology, white cell morphology, and the analysis of platelets, pregnancy, pediatrics, and parasites

Features interactive quizzes and end-of-lecture MCQs, which helps learners reinforce their understanding and assess their progress

Includes summative assessments at the end of each module and the end of the series, ensuring that learners have a thorough understanding of the material

Taught by Matthew Wright, who is an experienced medical scientist with a background in hematology, which lends credibility to the course

May require learners to have access to a hematology laboratory for some of the suggested lab exercises, which may not be feasible for all learners

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Blood Film Morphology - A Practical Guide with these activities:

Review course material

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Reviewing course material before the lectures will help you recall prior knowledge and prepare for new concepts.

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Go over lecture slides and notes
Read assigned textbook chapters
Complete any pre-lecture quizzes or assignments

Review textbook

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Reviewing the textbook will help you solidify your understanding of the basics of blood film analysis, ensuring you have a solid foundation for the course.

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Read the relevant chapters
Take notes on key concepts
Summarize the material in your own words

Watch online tutorials

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Watching online tutorials can help you supplement your learning and gain additional insights into blood film analysis.

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Search for relevant tutorials
Watch tutorials and take notes
Practice what you learn

Five other activities

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Practice blood film analysis

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Practicing blood film analysis will help you develop the skills necessary to accurately interpret blood films, a key component of the course.

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Obtain blood film slides
Examine slides under a microscope
Identify different types of blood cells
Analyze quantitative and qualitative changes in blood cells

Join a study group

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Joining a study group can provide you with opportunities to discuss and reinforce concepts, ask questions, and learn from others.

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Find a study group or form one with classmates
Meet regularly to discuss course material
Work together on practice problems

Create a quiz or worksheet

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Creating your own quiz or worksheet can help you test your understanding of the material and identify areas where you need additional study.

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Identify key concepts to cover
Write questions or problems
Review and revise your quiz or worksheet

Volunteer at a local hospital or clinic

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Volunteering at a hospital or clinic can provide you with hands-on experience and exposure to real-world applications of blood film analysis.

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Contact local hospitals or clinics
Inquire about volunteer opportunities
Attend training and orientation
Assist with tasks under the supervision of a healthcare professional

Start a research project

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Starting a research project can help you apply your knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and deepen your understanding of a specific topic in blood film analysis.

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Identify a research topic
Conduct a literature review
Develop a research question and hypothesis
Design and conduct your research
Analyze your data

Career center

Learners who complete Blood Film Morphology - A Practical Guide will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Pathologist

Pathologists diagnose diseases by examining cells and tissues under a microscope. They may also perform autopsies to determine the cause of death. As a Pathologist, developing a strong foundation in blood film analysis is an integral part of understanding how blood film morphology correlates to specific diseases and conditions. This course provides a specialized focus on blood film analysis, making it a valuable resource for Pathologists to further enhance their diagnostic and analytical skills in the field of pathology.

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Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technicians collect and analyze samples of body fluids, tissues, or other substances. They perform tests to identify microorganisms, chemical substances, or other agents that may cause disease. This course provides Laboratory Technicians with a strong foundation in blood film analysis, enabling them to accurately interpret blood film morphology for the identification and diagnosis of various diseases and conditions. Enhanced proficiency in blood film analysis allows Laboratory Technicians to contribute more effectively to patient care and disease management.

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Hematologist

Hematologists specialize in diagnosing and treating disorders of the blood and blood-forming tissues. They analyze blood samples to identify abnormalities in blood cells, which can indicate underlying diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma, or anemia. This course offers Hematologists specialized knowledge in blood film morphology, enabling them to make accurate diagnoses and develop appropriate treatment plans for patients with blood-related disorders. The course's emphasis on a structured approach to blood film analysis enhances their ability to identify and interpret subtle changes in blood cell morphology, leading to improved patient outcomes.

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Medical Technologist

Medical Technologists perform a wide range of laboratory tests to diagnose and monitor diseases. They analyze blood, urine, and other body fluids to identify abnormalities that may indicate health problems. This course provides Medical Technologists with a comprehensive understanding of blood film morphology, equipping them to perform accurate blood film analysis and contribute to the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with blood-related conditions. The course's focus on a systematic approach to blood film analysis enhances their ability to detect and interpret subtle changes in blood cell morphology, leading to more accurate diagnoses and improved patient care.

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Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Clinical Laboratory Scientists perform a variety of tests to diagnose and treat diseases. They use laboratory equipment to analyze blood, urine, and other bodily fluids to identify abnormalities that may indicate health problems. This course provides Clinical Laboratory Scientists with a strong foundation in blood film morphology, enabling them to perform accurate blood film analysis and contribute to the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with blood-related conditions. The course's emphasis on a structured approach to blood film analysis enhances their ability to detect and interpret subtle changes in blood cell morphology, leading to more accurate diagnoses and improved patient care.

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Phlebotomist

Phlebotomists draw blood from patients for testing. They must have a good understanding of blood collection techniques to ensure that blood samples are collected safely and accurately. This course provides Phlebotomists with a basic understanding of blood film morphology, enabling them to identify potential abnormalities in blood samples during the collection process. This knowledge can help them to ensure that appropriate samples are collected for further analysis, contributing to accurate diagnoses and timely patient care.

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Medical Laboratory Technician

Medical Laboratory Technicians perform a variety of laboratory tests to diagnose and treat diseases. They may also conduct research to develop new tests or improve existing ones. This course provides Medical Laboratory Technicians with a strong foundation in blood film morphology, enabling them to perform accurate blood film analysis and contribute to the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with blood-related conditions. The course's emphasis on a structured approach to blood film analysis enhances their ability to detect and interpret subtle changes in blood cell morphology, leading to more accurate diagnoses and improved patient care.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Laboratory Technician

Research Scientist

Research Scientists conduct research to advance scientific knowledge and develop new technologies. They may work in a variety of fields, including medicine, biology, chemistry, and physics. This course may be useful for Research Scientists who are studying blood-related diseases or developing new diagnostic methods for blood analysis. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of blood film morphology, enabling Research Scientists to design and conduct experiments that require accurate identification and interpretation of blood cell morphology.

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Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical Engineers design and develop medical devices and technologies. They may also work in research and development to improve existing medical technologies. This course may be useful for Biomedical Engineers who are developing new diagnostic tools or technologies for blood analysis. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of blood film morphology, enabling Biomedical Engineers to design and develop devices that can accurately identify and interpret blood cell morphology, leading to improved patient care.

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Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists investigate the causes and distribution of diseases in populations. They use this information to develop and implement public health programs to prevent and control diseases. This course may be useful for Epidemiologists who are studying blood-related diseases or developing new public health programs for blood-related conditions. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of blood film morphology, enabling Epidemiologists to design and conduct studies that require accurate identification and interpretation of blood cell morphology, leading to improved public health outcomes.

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Public Health Nurse

Public Health Nurses work to promote and protect the health of communities. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools, clinics, and community centers. This course may be useful for Public Health Nurses who are working with patients with blood-related conditions. The course provides a basic understanding of blood film morphology, enabling Public Health Nurses to recognize potential abnormalities in blood samples and refer patients for further evaluation, contributing to early diagnosis and timely intervention.

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Health Educator

Health Educators develop and implement educational programs to promote healthy behaviors and prevent diseases. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools, clinics, and community centers. This course may be useful for Health Educators who are teaching about blood-related diseases or promoting healthy blood donation practices. The course provides a basic understanding of blood film morphology, enabling Health Educators to accurately convey information about blood cell morphology and its significance for overall health and well-being.

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Medical Writer

Medical Writers create written content about medical topics for a variety of audiences. They may work in a variety of settings, including pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, and medical journals. This course may be useful for Medical Writers who are writing about blood-related diseases or conditions. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of blood film morphology, enabling Medical Writers to accurately describe and explain blood cell morphology and its significance for patient care and disease management.

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Science Teacher

Science Teachers teach science courses at the secondary or post-secondary level. They may teach a variety of science subjects, including biology, chemistry, and physics. This course may be useful for Science Teachers who are teaching about blood-related topics or preparing students for careers in the medical field. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of blood film morphology, enabling Science Teachers to accurately teach about blood cell morphology and its significance for human health and disease.

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Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare Administrators manage the operations of healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and clinics. They may also work in public health agencies or insurance companies. This course may be useful for Healthcare Administrators who are involved in quality improvement initiatives or developing policies related to blood-related services. The course provides a basic understanding of blood film morphology, enabling Healthcare Administrators to make informed decisions about the provision of blood-related services and ensure the quality and accuracy of blood analysis in healthcare settings.

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