Sample Question from Erythrocyte Inclusions - Wright Stained Smears, presented by MediaLab

Characteristics of Pappenheimer bodies and Siderotic granules

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.

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