Poikiloblasts

Poikiloblasts are immature precursor cells found in the bone marrow. They are characterized by their large size, immature chromatin, and prominent nucleoli. These cells are typically seen in the context of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), a group of clonal hematopoietic stem cell disorders. The presence of poikiloblasts can indicate a disruption in normal blood cell development, leading to ineffective hematopoiesis. They are distinct from myeloblasts, which are generally considered more mature precursors of granulocytes and monocytes. The exact origin and differentiation potential of poikiloblasts are still areas of ongoing research. Their identification is a diagnostic feature used by hematologists to assess bone marrow morphology and aid in the diagnosis and classification of various hematological disorders. Distinguishing poikiloblasts from other immature myeloid cells requires careful examination of cellular morphology and context within the bone marrow aspirate.