A schistocyte or schizocyte (from Greek schistos for "divided" or schistein for "to split", and kytos for "hollow" or "cell") is a fragmented part of a red blood cell. Schistocytes are typically irregularly shaped, jagged and asymmetrical. A true schistocyte does not have central pallor. [1]
Several microangiopathic diseases, including disseminated intravascular coagulation and thrombotic microangiopathies, generate fibrin strands that sever red blood cells as they try to move past a thrombus, creating schistocytes.
Schistocytes are often seen in patients with hemolytic anemia. They are frequently a consequence of mechanical heart valve prostheses. (See artificial heart valve)
References
- ^ Amanda Cox et al., Schistocytes: A Brief Overview. Retrieved 23 August 2008.
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