Acanthocytosis
Acanthocytosis (pronounced: a-kan-tho-sy-to-sis) is a medical condition characterized by the presence of acanthocytes in the blood. Acanthocytes are abnormal red blood cells that have a spiked cell membrane, due to irregular thorny projections.
Etymology
The term "Acanthocytosis" is derived from the Greek words "akantha" which means thorn and "kytos" which means cell.
Causes
Acanthocytosis is often associated with several inherited neurological disorders, including Abetalipoproteinemia, Neuroacanthocytosis, and Chorea Acanthocytosis. It can also occur in people with liver disease, and in those with lipid metabolism disorders.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Acanthocytosis can vary greatly depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, it may not cause any symptoms. In other cases, it can lead to symptoms such as jaundice, muscle weakness, movement disorders, and developmental delay.
Diagnosis
Acanthocytosis is typically diagnosed through a Peripheral Blood Smear test, which involves examining a sample of the patient's blood under a microscope. The presence of acanthocytes in the blood is a key indicator of the condition.
Treatment
Treatment for Acanthocytosis typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may involve dietary changes, medications, or in some cases, surgery.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acanthocytosis
- Wikipedia's article - Acanthocytosis
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