The role of technology in haematology
Shaun R. McCann · Oxford University Press eBooks · 2016
Various technologies have changed and improved the practice of haematology. Because it is possible to obtain blood cells so readily (via a simple venepuncture), haematology has been at the forefront of technological developments in medicine. The diagnosis of both malignant and benign haematological disorders has become more exact because of the technological advances outlined, and the understanding of the pathogenesis of many diseases has been advanced as a direct result of the application of technologies such as immunofluorescence, confocal and electron microscopy, automated cell counting, flow cytometry, digital cell morphology, advanced staining techniques, and PCR. However, it is important to stress that all technologies and ‘tests’ need to be cautiously interpreted, and a full history and physical examination should always be the first step in the investigation of patients.