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Pseudothrombocytopenia due to platelet satellitism

Author: Madhura Jogwar, MD, 06/23/2023
Category: Laboratory Hematology > Basic cell morphology > Morphologic variants of platelets (cross-reference with specific diagnoses when appropriate > Platelet aggregates and satellitosis
Published Date: 06/23/2023

63/ Female on routine hemogram showed thrombocytopenia. Peripheral smear showed platelet satellitism around neutrophils & monocytes. Generally the phenomenon is seen around neutrophils. In this case, satellitism is observed around monocytes. Repeat EDTA sample showed similar phenomenon, however it was resolved on citrate smear and true platelet count was reported.

Platelet satellitism can lead to pseudo-thrombocytopenia, which necessitates reviewing of peripheral smear in cases of low platelet count.