Red Blood Cells | My Hematology

Sideroblastic Anemia

Sideroblastic anemia disrupts iron use in red blood cells. Caused by genetic mutations or factors like alcohol abuse, it’s diagnosed by analyzing bone marrow for ring sideroblasts, iron-laden structures.

Differential Diagnosis of Macrocytic Anemias

Macrocytosis, larger-than-normal red blood cells, can be a sign of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, liver disease, or bone marrow issues. Early diagnosis is key for targeted treatment.

Differential Diagnosis of Hypochromic Anemia

Hypochromic anemia, marked by pale, small red blood cells, has various causes beyond iron deficiency. A proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Ruling out conditions like thalassemia or lead poisoning ensures targeted therapy.

Agarose Gel Electrophoresis Preparation for PCR

Lab Protocols, Red Blood Cells

Agarose gel electrophoresis: where we separate and visualize amplified DNA fragments.

Hb S Sickling Test

Lab Protocols, Red Blood Cells

This test unmasks sickle cells: crescent shadows under the microscope, revealing HbS’s hidden grip on red blood cells.

Hemolysate Preparation for Hb Electrophoresis or Alkaline Denaturation Tests

Lab Protocols, Red Blood Cells

Red blood cells lysed to release hemoglobin for Hb electrophoresis and alkaline denaturation test. Hemolysate preparation requires careful steps to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.

Drug-Induced Immune Hemolytic Anemia (DIIHA)

Red Blood Cells

Drug-induced immune hemolytic anemia (DIIHA) challenges diagnostic workup due to diverse mechanisms (hapten model most common). Consider DIIHA in hemolytic anemia with recent medication initiation & positive DAT.

Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA)

Red Blood Cells

AIHA: When your own immune system attacks healthy red blood cells, causing anemia. Treatment aims to suppress this immune response

Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA)

Red Blood Cells

AIHA: When your own immune system attacks healthy red blood cells, causing anemia. Treatment aims to suppress this immune response

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.

Full Blood Count (FBC) and Other Hematological Reference Ranges

Lab Protocols, Red Blood Cells

Reference ranges like full blood count (FBC) are important because they provide a baseline for interpreting laboratory test results.

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 Anemia

Red Blood Cells

Sickle cell anemia 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.