BLOOD 05

Peripheral blood smear. The cell labeled "A" is a basophil. The identifying characteristics are the lobulated nucleus, and the very large, dark purple granules. The nucleus may appear distorted or contain 2-3 lobes. Often the dark granules may obscure the nucleus. This cell is frequently damaged during preparation of the smear, releasing the granules into the surrounding area. Do not confuse small lymphocytes or isolated nuclei for these cells. This cell is similar in size to a neutrophil (usually slightly larger, compare to red cells).

Slide G-5, field Q-17 of finder slide A, 63X objective