Polychromasia
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.
- 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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