Red blood cell inclusions are hidden clues! These structures in RBCs signal underlying issues. Learn how they help diagnose anemia & other blood disorders.
Red Blood Cells
Abnormal Red Blood Cell (RBC) Morphology
Red blood cell (RBC) shapes and sizes offer clues to health! Normal RBCs are round and disc-shaped, but abnormal shapes like sickle or teardrop forms can indicate underlying conditions like anemia. Let’s explore what these variations mean!
Drug-Induced Immune Hemolytic Anemia (DIIHA)
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.
Systemic Approach to Anemia
Systematic anemia diagnosis starts with a detailed history, exam & blood tests. Iron studies, B12/folate levels & other tests pinpoint the cause (iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency, etc.) leading to targeted treatment & improved outcomes.
Hereditary Hemochromatosis
Hereditary hemochromatosis, an inherited disorder, disrupts iron absorption leading to excessive iron buildup in organs like the liver, heart, and pancreas. Early diagnosis through blood tests is crucial to prevent potential complications like cirrhosis, heart failure, and diabetes. Treatment focuses on iron reduction through phlebotomy and may prevent severe health consequences.
Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia, an autoimmune condition, disrupts vitamin B12 absorption. This leads to fatigue, nerve problems, and a special type of anemia. Early diagnosis and B12 replacement therapy are key for good health.
Perls’ Prussian Blue Staining
Perls’ Prussian blue stain helps in identifying presence of iron stores in the bone marrow aspirate smear.
Leishman Stain
Leishman stain is used commonly for the identification of different cells present in the peripheral blood smear. It has acidic and basic properties.
Megaloblastic Anemia
Megaloblastic anemia is a type of anemia caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate.
Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common blood disorder caused by a lack of iron. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. IDA causes symptoms such as fatigue, pale skin, and shortness of breath.
Beta Thalassemia
Beta thalassemia is a blood disorder caused by a mutation in the gene that produces beta globin, a protein that helps red blood cells carry oxygen. People with beta thalassemia may have mild to severe anemia, and may need blood transfusions and other treatments.
Hereditary Spherocytosis
Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is a blood disorder that causes red blood cells to be sphere-shaped and less flexible. This makes them more likely to break down, leading to anemia.
