ColLABorate 2025

This session provides a comprehensive guide to red blood cell morphology, focusing on the most common variations in cell shape and their clinical significance. Participants will learn to identify and differentiate between common RBC variations including spherocytes, elliptocytes, schistocytes, and cells containing inclusions like Howell-Jolly bodies. Through microscopic examination and case-based discussion, attendees will develop practical skills in recognizing these important morphologic changes. The session emphasizes the relationship between cell shape alterations and underlying pathophysiology, helping bridge the gap between laboratory findings and clinical diagnosis. Perfect for laboratory professionals interested in improving their peripheral blood smear interpretation skills.
Learning Objectives:

1. Identify and differentiate major red blood cell shape variations and inclusions on peripheral blood smear examination
2. Evaluate the clinical significance of specific red blood cell morphologic changes and correlate them with underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms
3. Formulate preliminary diagnostic considerations based on observed red blood cell morphology patterns

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify specimen collection and processing errors that can lead to erroneous coagulation results.
2. Recognize incorrect coagulation results due to assay interferences and sensitivity.
3. Learn the significance of clinical history in interpreting coagulation results.

This presentation will showcase case studies to enhance problem-solving in the coagulation laboratory. We’ll analyze diagnostic interpretation, therapeutic decisions, and pre-analytical issues, while suggesting cost-effective testing patterns. Attendees will gain insights into managing complex coagulation abnormalities and learn best practices for accurate, step-by-step testing to improve patient outcomes.
Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the role of different routine and specialized coagulation assays in diagnosis of hemostatic problems, especially thrombosis
2. Present current methods for screening and confirmation of problems related to hypo- and hypercoagulability
3. Correlate coagulation testing to specific clinical cases

An outline of the TEG 6s analyzers' purpose and function, implementation process, and the impact on patient care are covered in this general introduction and discussion. Covered topics include a comparison to conventional coagulation testing, identification of patients with bleeding issues and the causes, effective resource management when treating those patients and highlighting further applications for TEG, followed by an opportunity for Q&A.
Learning Objectives:

1. Recognize the TEG 6s analyzer
2. Visit the process for on-boarding new instrumentation and testing
3. Summarize TEG usage in a clinical setting

Explore the critical role of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) in optimizing coagulation therapy. This presentation delves into the significance of TDM, relevant laboratory tests, and practical applications in today’s clinical laboratory. Additionally, learn how TDM and coagulation results empower healthcare professionals to fine-tune anticoagulation therapy for improved patient outcomes.
Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the importance of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in managing anticoagulant therapy
2. Identify key coagulation parameters and laboratory tests used in TDM
3. Apply and analyze practical applications of TDM in the coagulation laboratory