Polychromasia

 
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Overview

  • Polychromasia refers to macrocytic (large) red blood cells with a bluish tinge, due to residual RNA. These cells are likely reticulocytes, which are immature non-nucleated red cells which have only just extruded their nuclei.
    • Polychromasia
  • This finding may occur in the context of haemolysis, though may also be seen during recovery following haemorrhage or bone marrow suppression (such as following cytotoxic chemotherapy).

    • Causes of Polychromasia

    • Haemolytic anaemia
    • Haemorrhage (acute or chronic)
    • Recovery post bone marrow suppression
    • Late pregnancy
    • High altitude
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