Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Poikilocytosis
Introduction
Overview
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Overview
Poikilocytosis refers to the presence in the blood of poikilocytes. Poikilocytes are abnormally shaped red blood cells as seen on a blood film. Rather than being seen as a sign of any one disease, poikilocytosis is a rather general condition. There may, however be a predominance of one particular type of abnormally shaped red cells, some of which may indicate possible presence of a specific disease or disorder. [2]
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Pathophysiology
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Overview
Pathology
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Causes
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Overview
Causes
Abnormal red blood cells are seen in a wide range of conditions, so poikilocytosis is not specific. However, specific types of poikilocytes may be seen in particular disease states and/or disorders.
Membrane Abnormalities
- Acanthocytes or Spur/Spike cells
- Codocytes or Target cells
- Echinocytes and Burr cells
- Elliptocytes and Ovalocytes
- Spherocytes
- Stomatocytes or Mouth cells
Trauma
- Dacrocytes or Teardrop Cells
- Keratocytes
- Microspherocytes and Pyropoikilocytes
- Schistocytes
- Semilunar bodies
References
Risk Factors
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References
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
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References
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms | Physical Examination | Laboratory Findings | Other Diagnostic Studies
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]