Sideroblast

Sideroblasts are immature red blood cells that contain granules of iron in the mitochondria around the nucleus. The iron is incorporated into heme, which is then incorporated into hemoglobin. Sideroblasts are found in the bone marrow, and the presence of ringed sideroblasts can be a sign of certain diseases.

Types of Sideroblasts

There are two types of sideroblasts: ringed sideroblasts and non-ringed sideroblasts.

Ringed sideroblasts are characterized by the presence of iron-loaded mitochondria that form a ring around the nucleus. They are associated with certain types of anemia, including sideroblastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndrome.

Non-ringed sideroblasts do not have a ring of iron-loaded mitochondria around the nucleus. They can be seen in normal bone marrow, but their presence in increased numbers can indicate a problem with iron metabolism.

Clinical Significance

The presence of ringed sideroblasts in the bone marrow is a diagnostic feature of sideroblastic anemia. This condition can be either inherited or acquired. Inherited sideroblastic anemia is caused by mutations in genes involved in heme synthesis, while acquired sideroblastic anemia is often associated with alcoholism, lead poisoning, or the use of certain drugs.

In addition to sideroblastic anemia, ringed sideroblasts can also be seen in other conditions such as myelodysplastic syndrome and Pearson syndrome.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of conditions associated with sideroblasts is usually made by examining a sample of bone marrow under a microscope. Special stains are used to highlight the iron granules in the sideroblasts. In some cases, genetic testing may be performed to identify mutations associated with inherited forms of sideroblastic anemia.

Treatment

Treatment for conditions associated with sideroblasts depends on the underlying cause. For example, if the condition is caused by alcoholism, the patient may be advised to stop drinking alcohol. If it is caused by a genetic mutation, treatment may involve supplements to correct the metabolic defect.

Sideroblast Resources
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