Sample Question from Red Cell Disorders: Peripheral Blood Clues to Nonneoplastic Conditions, presented by MediaLab

Erythrocyte Disorders: Smear Case 3: Intracellular RBC Inclusions

Heinz body formation

Heinz bodies are 1-3 um particles of denatured hemoglobin settling eccentrically, usually close to the red cell membrane.
They are found in erythrocytes in unstable hemoglobin disorders, acute drug induced hemolysis, and following splenectomy.
Their formation may be exaggerated by in-vitro incubation of a fresh blood sample with phenylhydrazine.
Heinz bodies, as pictured here, are identified using a supra-vital stain, such as new methylene blue or cresyl violet.
Bite cells, visible with Wright-Giemsa staining, are visual reminders that the spleen is functional and has pitted the aberrant chunk of hemoglobin from the circulating erythrocyte.

Earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.® credits for your AMT, ASCP, or NCA recertification requirements.

Learn more about medical technologist continuing education for MTs, MLTs, and other lab personnel »

Get information on laboratory safety training for clinical and medical laboratories »