A computer-based reporting system for bone marrow evaluation

Abstract

A computerized system of reporting results of bone marrow examination has been implemented at The University of Texas System Cancer Center, M. D. Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute, since 1975. All results are entered via the keyboard of cathode-ray tube (CRT) consoles and are instantly available to the attending physician in CRTs strategically located throughout the institution in patient-related areas. Differential counts are available within two to three hours after aspiration. Description of clot sections and smear, diagnosis, and differential diagnosis are completed within 24 hours. Permanent reports are also printed by the computer at regular intervals during the day. The physician can ask the computer for results on a given day or for a cumulative summary displayed in tabular or plot form. This system has proven efficient and rapid, not only for direct reporting of bone marrow examination results but also for storage and retrieval of patient information.