Laboratory & Pathology Reports Flashcards

When transcribing a complete blood count (CBC) report, which value is reported in units of g/dL?

Answer: Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin concentration is measured and reported in grams per deciliter (g/dL), while WBC and platelets use cells/μL and hematocrit is expressed as a percentage.

In a pathology report, the term 'gross description' refers to:

Answer: The physical examination of the specimen with the naked eye

Gross description documents the macroscopic (unaided eye) characteristics of the specimen, including size, color, texture, and visible abnormalities before any microscopic processing.

The abbreviation 'AFB' as transcribed in a laboratory sputum report stands for:

Answer: Acid-Fast Bacilli

AFB stands for Acid-Fast Bacilli, a category of bacteria (including Mycobacterium tuberculosis) identified by their resistance to decolorization with acid in the Ziehl-Neelsen stain.

When transcribing laboratory reference ranges in a report, what is the standard numeric format?

Answer: Minimum–Maximum range (e.g., 4.5–11.0)

Laboratory reference ranges are standardly expressed as a minimum–maximum span (e.g., 4.5–11.0 × 10³/μL for WBC) to define the normal interval for interpretation.

In a urinalysis report, the term 'specific gravity' measures:

Answer: The concentration of solutes in urine relative to pure water

Specific gravity reflects urine concentration by comparing its density to that of pure water (1.000), with normal values ranging from approximately 1.003 to 1.030.

A cytology report categorized using the 'Bethesda System' is used for reporting results from which specimen type?

Answer: Cervical/vaginal Pap smears

The Bethesda System is the standardized nomenclature for reporting cervicovaginal cytology (Pap smear) findings, using terms such as NILM, ASC-US, LSIL, and HSIL.

In surgical pathology reports, which section immediately follows the gross description and provides examination findings under a microscope?

Answer: Microscopic description

The microscopic description section documents the histological findings observed under the microscope, including cell architecture, atypia, and tissue characteristics, before the pathologist renders a final diagnosis.