What type of cell is typically analyzed in a differential count during a blood examination?

In a differential count during a blood examination, white blood cells are the primary focus. This type of analysis is crucial as it provides a breakdown of the various types of white blood cells present in the blood, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Understanding the proportions of these different white blood cell types helps in diagnosing various medical conditions, such as infections, inflammatory diseases, and other hematological disorders. A differential count can reveal whether the body is responding appropriately to a pathogen or has an underlying condition that might be affecting the immune system's function.

In contrast, while red blood cells and platelets are important components of the blood, they are not analyzed in the differential count. Red blood cells are primarily evaluated for hematocrit and hemoglobin levels, while platelets are assessed for their volume and function in clotting. Stem cells, on the other hand, are typically not found within the peripheral blood smear and are assessed through different methodologies in specialized contexts.