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Polychromasia

March 30th, 2020
 
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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
  • 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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