Hematology Morphology Quiz: Red Blood Cell Characteristics

What is the most common finding in red blood cells in this condition?

Which of the following is a common finding in neutrophils in this condition?

What is the final diagnosis based on?

What is hemoglobinopathy related to?

What is the normal percentage of HbA in adult hemoglobin?

Which of the following is a common finding in platelets in this condition?

Megaloblastic Anemia

Characterized by extremely low Hb and red cell count
HCT may reflect the actual decrease in erythrocytes due to enlarged size of the red cells
Marked increase in MCV, potentially up to 130fl
MCH varies, but usually increased in 90% of cases
RDW is increased
TLC usually shows leucopenia, particularly neutropenia
Platelet count is usually decreased, with some large platelets
Peripheral blood smear features:
- Marked anisocytosis with macrocytic and normochromic cells
- Marked poikilocytosis with oval macrocytes, tear drop cells, and microcytes
- Basophilic stippling, Howell Jolly bodies, and nucleated red blood cells
- Neutrophils with hypersegmentation (6-10 lobes) and enlarged size

Hemoglobinopathies

Represent inherited or genetic defects related to hemoglobin
Defects can result in:
- Quantitative defects (e.g., thalassemia): deficiency in normal adult hemoglobin synthesis
- Qualitative defects (e.g., sickle cell anemia): abnormal structure of the hemoglobin molecule
Normal adult hemoglobin composition:
- HbA (α2β2): 95%-98%

Test your knowledge on red blood cell characteristics including Hb and red cell count, HCT, MCV, MCH, RDW, TLC, and platelet count. Learn to identify abnormalities in peripheral blood smears such as anisocytosis and macrocytic normochromic cells.