Red Blood Cells

Copper Deficiency

Copper deficiency is an often-missed, treatable cause of anemia and nerve damage. Learn to recognize and treat this B12 deficiency mimic.

Acute Intermittent Porphyria – AIP

Acute Intermittent Porphyria (AIP): The “Great Imitator” with no skin signs but high stakes. A guide to neurovisceral crises, the 5 Ps, and urinary PBG screening.

Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA)

Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) is a syndrome where red cells are sheared in small vessels, causing anemia and low platelets. Key feature: schistocytes.

Wilson’s disease: A rare genetic disorder causing toxic copper buildup in the liver and brain. Early diagnosis and lifelong treatment are crucial.

Zone of morphology of a peripheral blood smear is where a peripheral blood should be viewed for morphological abnormalities of the blood cells

Preparation of Peripheral Blood Smears

Lab Protocols, Red Blood Cells

A drop of blood spread on a slide, reveals morphological abnormalities of the blood cells that can be viewed under the microscope.

EDTA blood collection for CBC with differential

CBC with Differential and Other Reference Ranges

Lab Protocols, Red Blood Cells

Reference ranges like complete blood count (CBC) with differential are important because they provide a baseline for interpreting laboratory test results.

Image showcasing the mechanism of hemolysis in a G6PD crisis, highlighting the role of oxidative stress in damaging red blood cell membranes

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency

Red Blood Cells

G6PD deficiency is a common inherited blood disorder that can cause your red blood cells to break down when exposed to certain foods, drugs, or infections.

Sickle Cell Disease

Red Blood Cells

Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder that causes red blood cells to be sickle-shaped and less flexible. This can lead to blockages in blood vessels, pain, and organ damage.