RBCs are biconcave discs measuring 7.2-7.9 μm in diameter. They contain pinkish cytoplasm and central pallor 1/3 cell size. RBCs are slightly smaller than small lymphocytes
Used in diagnostic labs to determine bacterial antibiotic susceptibility. In drug discovery labs, screens biological materials for antibacterial activity. First used by Beijerinck in 1889 for bacterial growth studies
RDW measures variation in red blood cell volume in complete blood count. Normal RDW-CV range is 11.5-15.4%. RDW-SD measures width at 20% height level, unaffected by MCV
Titer expresses concentration using serial dilution. Corresponds to highest dilution factor yielding positive reading. Can be written as denominator only (e.g., 1:256 = 256)
Blood smear is a thin blood layer spread on microscope slide. Blood is fixed in methanol before staining with Romanowsky stains. Staining allows examination of white, red blood cells and platelets. Microscope magnification up to 1000 times used for cell examination
Prolactin is a polypeptide hormone of anterior pituitary with molecular mass 22,800. Secretion controlled by hypothalamus through dopamine and serotonin. Appears in serum in three forms: 80% monomeric, 5-20% dimeric, 0.5-5% tetrameric