Total and differential leukocyte counts in clinically well children. Information or misinformation?
V. A. Moyer and R. M. Grimes
Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston 77030.
To determine whether the total and differential leukocyte count is of value
as a case-finding test, we applied the evaluation criteria developed by the
US Preventive Services Task Force. The criteria comprise review of the
current burden of suffering of the disease to be prevented, the attributes
of the intervention to be used, and the quality of the evidence available.
A literature search revealed no evidence in the form of data from patients,
so a chart review of all complete blood cell counts ordered during a 1-year
period by one group of pediatricians was undertaken. At least one value
outside of published normal ranges was found on 74.7% of the tests
performed on clinically well children. No unsuspected illness was
discovered as a result of an abnormal total and differential leukocyte
count.
