Leishman Stain

Leishman Stain

Introduction The Leishman stain, characterized by its contrasting hues of blue, pink, and purple, offers a deeper understanding of cellular morphology and differentiation. The nuclei of cells stain a crisp blue, while the cytoplasm takes on vibrant pink or purple hues...
Megaloblastic Anemia

Megaloblastic Anemia

TL;DR Megaloblastic anemia is caused by defective DNA synthesis due to B12 deficiency or folic acid deficiency resulting in delayed red cell nucleus maturation in the bone marrow leading to macrocytic red cells (MCV > 95 fL in adults).  Signs and symptoms ▾...
Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)

Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)

TL;DR Iron deficiency anemia is caused by defective heme or hemoglobin synthesis due to the lack of iron.   Iron deficiency symptoms & signs ▾ GeneralSpecificFatigueWeaknessPallorHeadachesDizziness or lightheadednessShortness of breathChest...
Beta Thalassemia

Beta Thalassemia

TL;DR Beta thalassemia is a hereditary hemoglobin disorder due to reduced or absence of beta-globin chain production leading to ineffective erythropoiesis and anemia. It is predominantly an autosomal recessive gene disorder. Epidemiology Approximately 1.5% of the...
Hereditary Spherocytosis

Hereditary Spherocytosis

TL;DR Hereditary spherocytosis is an inherited hemolytic anemia due to a defect in a red cell membrane protein. It has mainly an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. Signs and symptoms ▾ Mild to moderate anemia Intermittent jaundice precipitated by pregnancy,...