Supravital Staining of Red Cells
February 15th, 2021
Overview
Extra staining of blood films may reveal red blood cell findings not seen using typical stains.
Heinz Bodies
Heinz bodies are basophilic inclusions adjacent to the cell membrane that are seen only on supravital staining.
These inclusions are made of denatured haemoglobin, and are a sign of oxidative haemolysis.
Causes of Heinz Bodies
- Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
- Unstable haemoglobins
- Drug-induced oxidative haemolysis
Haemoglobin H Inclusions
Haemoglobin H inclusions are only seen on supravital staining. They manifest as multiple purple inclusions, causing a 'golf-ball' appearance.
Haemoglobin H inclusions are seen in haemoglobin H disease, which is a form of alpha thalassaemia.
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