In identifying a cell the technologist should
think in the following terms:
1. What is the size of the cell?
A. Small
B. Medium
C. Large
2. What are the characteristics of the nucleus?
A. Shape
B. Relative size
C. Chromatin pattern: smooth or coarse
D. Presence of nucleoli
3. What are the characteristics of the cytoplasm?
A. Granular or non-granular: specific or nonspecific granules
B. Color (staining properties)
C. Relative amount
1. What is the size of the cell?
A. Small
B. Medium
C. Large
2. What are the characteristics of the nucleus?
A. Shape
B. Relative size
C. Chromatin pattern: smooth or coarse
D. Presence of nucleoli
3. What are the characteristics of the cytoplasm?
A. Granular or non-granular: specific or nonspecific granules
B. Color (staining properties)
C. Relative amount
When attempting to identify a
cell, it is important also to note the degree to which the cells are taking up
the stain. For example, if all cells seem bluer than usual, this may be due to
poor staining technique and cell identification must be made accordingly.
