esplenócitos

Esplenócitos, also known as pitted erythrocytes or immersed erythrocytes, are a specific morphological form of red blood cells (erythrocytes) observed under microscopic examination. These cells are characterized by the presence of one or more small, clear, and often well-defined pits or perforations on their surface. The formation of esplenócitos is typically associated with conditions involving the spleen, such as functional or anatomical splenectomy, or certain hemolytic anemias.

Under normal circumstances, red blood cells are biconcave discs that lack internal organelles; however, their surface can sometimes exhibit pits due to membrane abnormalities or alterations. In laboratory settings, esplenócitos are identified through blood smears stained with Wright or Giemsa stain, which highlights these characteristic surface modifications.

The presence of esplenócitos can serve as an indirect indicator of splenic function. Their appearance is often increased in individuals who have undergone splenectomy, as the absence of splenic filtering allows these altered erythrocytes to circulate freely. Conversely, their presence may also be associated with hemolytic conditions, such as hereditary spherocytosis or other membrane defect disorders, where erythrocyte shape and surface integrity are compromised.

Detection and quantification of esplenócitos can assist clinicians in evaluating splenic function and diagnosing certain hematological disorders. Overall, esplenócitos are an important morphological feature in the study of erythrocyte pathology and can provide valuable insights into underlying systemic or splenic abnormalities.