Polychromasia

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Polychromasia is a medical condition characterized by the presence of polychromatic red blood cells in the blood smear. These cells are typically larger and exhibit a bluish tint when stained with Wright's stain or Giemsa stain, indicating that they are reticulocytes, or immature red blood cells.

Causes

Polychromasia can be caused by a variety of conditions that lead to increased production of red blood cells by the bone marrow. These conditions include:

• Hemolytic anemia
• Acute blood loss
• Recovery from anemia
• Bone marrow disorders

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of polychromasia is typically made through a peripheral blood smear examination. The presence of polychromatic cells is a sign that the bone marrow is responding to an increased demand for red blood cells. Additional tests may include:

• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Reticulocyte count
• Bone marrow biopsy

Clinical Significance

Polychromasia is an important diagnostic indicator in various hematological conditions. It suggests active erythropoiesis and can be a response to:

• Hemorrhage
• Hemolysis
• Therapeutic interventions such as iron therapy or erythropoietin administration

Treatment

Treatment of polychromasia involves addressing the underlying cause. For instance:

• In cases of iron deficiency anemia, iron supplements may be prescribed.
• For hemolytic anemia, treatment may include corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive agents.
• In cases of acute blood loss, blood transfusion may be necessary.

See Also

• Anemia
• Reticulocyte
• Bone marrow
• Peripheral blood smear