A peripheral smear, also known as a peripheral blood smear, is a laboratory test that involves examining a sample of a person's blood under a microscope. The test is used to evaluate the appearance and size of the different types of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. A peripheral smear can provide important information about a person's overall health and can help detect a wide range of disorders, including anemia, infection, and leukemia. The test is often ordered as part of a routine medical examination or when a person is experiencing certain symptoms, such as fatigue or shortness of breath.
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