With the rise of automated analysers and digital diagnostics, some may question whether traditional blood film morphology still has a place in modern haematology. In this article, originally published in The Biomedical Scientist, I explore where automation falls short and why human interpretation remains essential in spotting artefacts, reactive changes, and complex cell morphologies.

From platelet satellitism to cryoglobulins, this piece reminds us that morphology is very much alive and still a powerful diagnostic tool.