Acanthocytes

Overview

• Acanthocytes, also known as spur cells, are red blood cells with irregular membrane projections.
• •  
• Acanthocytosis may be congenital or acquired, and is classically associated with spur cell haemolytic anaemia in the context of alcoholic cirrhosis.

• • Causes of Acanthocytes

  • Hereditary acanthocytosis
  • Spur cell haemolytic anaemia (liver disease) - particularly with alcoholic cirrhosis
  • Hypobetalipoproteinaemia - hereditary, malnutrition
  • Post splenectomy