Laboratory disease: Case of pseudothrombocytopenia

Abstract

We report a case of EDTA induced pseudothrombocytopenia (EDTA-PTCP) in a patient who was treated
with platelet transfusion and with refractory thrombocytopenia was referred to us. The Automated blood
analyzer and peripheral blood smear examination revealed numerous platelet aggregates, leading to
falsely low platelet count on automated hematology analyzer. The case emphasizes careful examination
of peripheral blood smear to rule out this form of in vitro phenomenon which can save the patient from
unnecessary transfusions and invasive diagnostic procedures.