Heinz body

Heinz bodies are inclusions within the red blood cells that are composed of denatured hemoglobin. They are named after Robert Heinz, a German physician who first described them in 1890. Heinz bodies are visible on supravital staining of the blood smear.

Formation

Heinz bodies form as a result of oxidative damage to the hemoglobin molecule. This damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including certain drugs, toxins, and diseases. The damaged hemoglobin precipitates within the red blood cell, forming a Heinz body.

Detection

Heinz bodies can be detected using a special staining technique known as supravital staining. This technique involves staining the blood smear with a dye such as methylene blue or crystal violet, which allows the Heinz bodies to be seen under a microscope.

Clinical significance

The presence of Heinz bodies in the red blood cells is often indicative of a disease state. They are commonly seen in conditions such as G6PD deficiency, thalassemia, and sickle cell disease. In these conditions, the red blood cells are more susceptible to oxidative damage, leading to the formation of Heinz bodies. The presence of Heinz bodies can lead to hemolytic anemia, as the red blood cells containing them are removed from circulation by the spleen.

See also

• Red blood cell
• Hemoglobin
• G6PD deficiency
• Thalassemia
• Sickle cell disease