Blister Cells
Synonyms: Eccentrocyte, pre-keratocyte, hemighost cell, puddle cell
Whereas normal erythocytes have a central elucidation, eccentrocytes have a peripheral elucidation. This results from damage to the hemoglobin, causing the hemoglobin molecules to contract to one side. This damage is often the result of oxidative stress (as in severe disease, hemoglobinopathies or G6PD deficiency). In the presence of these cells, an increased concentration of methemoglobin may also be seen.
Another name for this abnormality is "pre-keratocyte" or "pre-blister cell". The empty portion of the cell is removed in the spleen, leaving behind a bite cell or keratocyte.
