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
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