Blister Cells
Synonyms: Eccentrocyte, pre-keratocyte, hemighost cell, puddle cell
Whereas normal erythocytes have a central clearing, blister cells have a peripheral clearing. This is due to damage to hemoglobin, causing the hemoglobin molecules to contract to one side. This damage is often due to oxidative stress (such as in severe disease 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.
