Schistocytes
March 30th, 2020
Overview
Schistocytes are small irregular fragments of red blood cells of varying shapes. Their presence on blood films is suggestive of microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia, and should be diagnosed rapidly as many of its causes are life-threatening.
Causes of Schistocytosis
- Microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia - TTP, HUS, aHUS, DIC, preeclampsia / HELLP syndrome, SLE, malignant hypertension, brown snake bite
- Mechanical haemolysis - valvular leaks, cardiac prostheses, renal replacement, ECMO, march haemoglobinuria
- Myelodysplastic syndrome
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