Laboratory Science Hematology and Blood Analysis 2

Question 1

What does an elevated ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) typically indicate?

Accepted Answer

Increased presence of inflammation or infection

Answer

An elevated ESR reflects increased fibrinogen and other acute-phase proteins that cause RBCs to stack (rouleaux) and settle faster, indicating inflammation.

Question 2

Which coagulation pathway is measured by the PT (prothrombin time) test?

Accepted Answer

Extrinsic pathway

Answer

PT measures the extrinsic coagulation pathway (tissue factor/factor VII initiation) and the common pathway, and is reported as PT or INR.

Question 3

A differential WBC count showing 85% neutrophils in an adult patient most likely suggests which condition?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial infection

Answer

Neutrophilia (>70% neutrophils) is a classic response to acute bacterial infections, as neutrophils are the primary phagocytic defenders against bacteria.

Question 4

What is the normal platelet count range in adults?

Accepted Answer

150,000–400,000/µL

Answer

The normal platelet count is 150,000–400,000/µL; counts below 150,000/µL indicate thrombocytopenia and counts above 400,000/µL indicate thrombocytosis.

Question 5

Which blood cell type is elevated in allergic reactions and parasitic infections?

Accepted Answer

Eosinophils

Answer

Eosinophils contain granules with antiparasitic proteins and are involved in IgE-mediated allergic responses, causing eosinophilia in both conditions.

Laboratory Science Practice Test

Laboratory Science Practice Test

Laboratory Science Hematology and Blood Analysis 2