Schistocyte

Schistocyte is a fragmented part of a red blood cell that is often associated with microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA). Schistocytes are typically seen in conditions such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

Definition

A Schistocyte is a fragmented part of a red blood cell that is often associated with microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA). Schistocytes are typically seen in conditions such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

Causes

Schistocytes are caused by the mechanical destruction of the red blood cell membrane. This can occur in a variety of conditions, including those that cause hemolysis or blood clotting disorders. Some of the most common causes include:

• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
• Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
• Malignant hypertension
• Eclampsia
• HELLP syndrome

Diagnosis

The presence of schistocytes can be detected through a blood smear examination. This involves taking a sample of the patient's blood and examining it under a microscope. The schistocytes can be seen as fragmented red blood cells.

Treatment

Treatment for schistocytes typically involves treating the underlying condition that is causing the red blood cell fragmentation. This can include plasma exchange for conditions like TTP, or dialysis for conditions like HUS.

See Also

• Red blood cell
• Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia
• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
• Hemolytic uremic syndrome
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation

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Schistocyte

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  Blood smear with typical schistocytes in TTP

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  Poikilocytes - Red blood cell types