Teardrop cells, also known as dacrocytes, are abnormally shaped red blood cells that resemble teardrops under a microscope. These cells are often indicative of underlying medical conditions.
Causes and Associations of Teardrop Cells
Teardrop cells are not a disease themselves, but rather a morphological abnormality that suggests an underlying health issue. According to the provided reference, teardrop cells are frequently associated with:
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Infiltration of the bone marrow: This can be caused by:
- Fibrosis (scarring of the bone marrow)
- Granulomatous inflammation (inflammatory condition)
- Hematopoietic or metastatic neoplasms (cancers affecting blood cell formation or spread from other sites)
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Splenic abnormalities: Problems with the spleen can lead to the formation of teardrop cells.
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Vitamin B12 deficiency: A lack of vitamin B12 can affect red blood cell production and morphology.
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Some other forms of anemia: Various types of anemia can also be associated with teardrop cells.
Why Do Teardrop Cells Form?
The teardrop shape is believed to arise as red blood cells attempt to squeeze through abnormalities or obstructions in the bone marrow or spleen. This physical distortion results in the characteristic teardrop appearance.
Clinical Significance
The presence of teardrop cells in a blood smear warrants further investigation to determine the underlying cause. The number of teardrop cells present can sometimes correlate with the severity of the underlying condition. Doctors use this finding, along with other diagnostic tests, to accurately diagnose and manage the patient's condition.
