Mr. Mario Balcázar has developed a distinguished and steadily growing research profile in hematology, centering his work on improving the diagnostic precision of microcytic anemias and strengthening laboratory-based clinical decision-making. His research has been especially impactful in elucidating the epidemiology of β-thalassemia trait (BTT) in southern Chile, where data have historically been scarce. Through systematic analysis of outpatient laboratory records, he has generated some of the first evidence-based estimates of BTT occurrence in the region, emphasizing its under recognition and the need for enhanced screening strategies. His scientific visibility is reflected in international indexing platforms such as Scopus, with 3 peer-reviewed publications, 1 citation, and an h-index of 1 demonstrating the early but significant trajectory of his research contributions. Among his notable studies, he conducted one of Chile’s most comprehensive evaluations of 29 red blood cell (RBC) discriminant indices, identifying high-performance tools capable of distinguishing BTT from iron deficiency anemia, two conditions that frequently overlap in hematological presentation. He further advanced laboratory hematology by reporting the first Chilean case series of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid-dependent pseudo thrombocytopenia (EDTA-PTCP), a diagnostic pitfall capable of triggering unnecessary clinical interventions when unrecognized. His detailed investigation into platelet aggregation behavior, histogram distortions, and anticoagulant effects has provided practical guidance to improve the reliability of platelet counts and smear interpretation. Complementing his publications, he has actively disseminated his findings through academic presentations and scientific forums, reinforcing evidence-based laboratory practices and contributing meaningfully to the advancement of hematology in Chile and beyond.
Profile: Scopus
Featured Publications
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Balcázar-Villarroel, M., Mancilla-Uribe, A., Navia-León, S., & Peña, F. (2025). Assessment of β-thalassemia trait occurrence in an outpatient sample from southern Chile: A retrospective study. Diagnostics.
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Balcázar-Villarroel, M., Carmine, F., Torrens, F., & Sandoval, C. (2025). First report of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid-dependent pseudo-thrombocytopenia in Chile: Prevalence and laboratory insights. Diagnostics.
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Balcázar-Villarroel, M., Mancilla-Uribe, A., Navia-León, S., & Sandoval, C. (2024). Diagnostic performance of red blood cell indices in the differential diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia and the thalassemia trait in Chile: A retrospective study. Diagnostics.