Poikiloblast

Poikiloblast

Overview

A poikiloblast is a type of cell found in the bone marrow that is characterized by its irregular shape and size. These cells are typically immature precursors to red blood cells and are often seen in various types of anemia and other hematological disorders.

Etymology

The term "poikiloblast" is derived from the Greek words "poikilos," meaning "varied" or "irregular," and "blastos," meaning "germ" or "sprout." This reflects the cell's irregular morphology.

Morphology

Poikiloblasts are notable for their irregular shapes, which can include variations in size, contour, and nuclear configuration. They may exhibit anisocytosis (variation in cell size) and poikilocytosis (variation in cell shape), which are indicative of underlying bone marrow pathology.

Function

As precursors to erythrocytes, poikiloblasts play a crucial role in the process of erythropoiesis, the production of red blood cells. They undergo a series of maturation stages, eventually losing their nuclei and becoming reticulocytes before maturing into fully functional red blood cells.

Clinical Significance

The presence of poikiloblasts in the bone marrow or peripheral blood smear can be indicative of several conditions, including:

• Megaloblastic anemia
• Myelodysplastic syndromes
• Leukemia
• Aplastic anemia

Their presence often necessitates further diagnostic evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the hematological abnormality.

Diagnosis

The identification of poikiloblasts is typically performed through a bone marrow biopsy and examination of the bone marrow aspirate under a microscope. A hematologist may use special stains and techniques to better visualize these cells and assess their characteristics.

Treatment

Treatment of conditions associated with poikiloblasts depends on the underlying cause. For example, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency leading to megaloblastic anemia may be treated with appropriate supplementation. In cases of myelodysplastic syndrome or leukemia, more intensive therapies such as chemotherapy or bone marrow transplantation may be required.

See Also

• Erythropoiesis
• Bone marrow biopsy
• Hematology

External Links

• [Hematology and Oncology - Overview of Anemias]
• [Bone Marrow Disorders - Diagnosis and Management]

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