What are Pappenheimer bodies?

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What are Pappenheimer bodies?

  • Pappenheimer bodies are seen in the cytoplasm of mature and immature erythrocytes on a Wright's stained smear.
  • They are composed of degenerating cellular remnants, which contain iron.
  • Pappenheimer bodies are most likely caused by accelerated red cell division, or impaired hemoglobin synthesis.
  • Pappenheimer bodies appear as small dark purple granular bodies of varying size frequently clustered in groups of two, three or more near the edge of the cell.