helmet cell

schistocyte

A fragmented red cell which arises from either an intrinsic increase in cell fragility or due to intravascular rugosities that traumatise cells; schistocytes are a nonspecific finding seen in hemolysis, trauma, prosthetic heart valves, megaloblastic and microangiopathic anaemioccidianhemolytic uremic syndrome, TTP.

HELMET CELLS: (Orig. mag. ×640)

helmet cell

A schistocyte or fragmented blood cell, seen in hemolytic anemias.

See: illustration

See also: cell