The “rule of three” in hematology gives a fast methodology to evaluate the accuracy of full blood depend (CBC) outcomes, particularly purple blood cell (RBC) depend, hemoglobin (HGB), and hematocrit (HCT). It postulates that, in normocytic and normochromic purple blood cells, HGB (g/dL) multiplied by 3 ought to roughly equal HCT (%), and RBC (hundreds of thousands/L) multiplied by 3 ought to roughly equal HGB. For example, if HGB is 10 g/dL, then HCT ought to be round 30%. Important deviations from this correlation could point out instrument error or an underlying hematological abnormality.
The significance of this lies in its skill to function a high quality management verify, notably in resource-limited settings or when quick entry to superior diagnostic instruments is unavailable. It gives a fast means to establish potential inaccuracies, prompting additional investigation and doubtlessly stopping misdiagnosis. Traditionally, it has been a cornerstone of laboratory hematology, providing a primary but essential verify on automated analyzer efficiency and the reliability of outcomes earlier than extra subtle validation strategies turned widespread.
