Charcot-Leyden crystals

Charcot-Leyden crystals
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Asthma, Eosinophilia
Complications	Respiratory distress
Onset	Variable
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Eosinophil breakdown
Risks	Allergic reactions, Parasitic infections
Diagnosis	Microscopic examination
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Management of underlying condition
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Depends on underlying cause
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Charcot-Leyden crystals are microscopic crystals found in people who have diseases associated with eosinophilia, such as asthma and certain parasitic infections. These crystals are formed from the breakdown of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in the body's immune response.

History

Charcot-Leyden crystals were first described by Jean-Martin Charcot and Ernst Viktor von Leyden in the 19th century. They are named after these two scientists who contributed significantly to the study of neurology and hematology.

Structure

Charcot-Leyden crystals are elongated and bipyramidal in shape. They are composed of a protein called galectin-10, which is released during the breakdown of eosinophils. These crystals are typically colorless and can be observed under a microscope in sputum, feces, or tissue samples.

Clinical Significance

The presence of Charcot-Leyden crystals is often associated with conditions that involve eosinophilic inflammation. They are commonly found in patients with asthma, allergic rhinitis, and eosinophilic esophagitis. In addition, they can be present in parasitic infections such as schistosomiasis and ascariasis.

Diagnosis

Charcot-Leyden crystals are identified through microscopic examination of samples such as sputum, stool, or tissue biopsy. Their presence can help support the diagnosis of conditions associated with eosinophilia.

Treatment

The treatment of conditions associated with Charcot-Leyden crystals involves managing the underlying cause of eosinophilia. This may include corticosteroids for asthma or antiparasitic drugs for parasitic infections.

See also

• Eosinophil
• Asthma
• Parasitic infection

External links

• Charcot-Leyden crystals on WikiMD