Spurious High Platelet Count by Automated Hematology Analyzer in Patient with Microcytic RBCS

We report a case of spurious elevation of platelet count on three consecutive occasions in a pediatric patient on six part Sysmex Hematology auto analyzer. Falsely low platelet counts are frequently reported in literature but falsely elevated Platelet counts are uncommon. The case emphasizes the important role of careful peripheral blood smear examination in case of high platelet counts. The blind folded reliance on automatic analyzers in hematology should be discouraged so as to provide best patient care.