Schistocytes are fragmented red blood cells that can take on different shapes. They can be found as triangular, helmet shaped, or comma shaped with pointed edges. Schistocytes are most often found to be microcytic with no area of central pallor.

The presence of ≥1% schistocytes on a peripheral blood smear (PBS) is an important criterion for the diagnosis of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). The reporting of schistocytes has been standardized by the International Council for Standardization ...

Aug 5, 2025 · Schistocytes are fragments of red blood cells that have been mechanically broken apart. They are notably smaller than intact red blood cells and exhibit irregular shapes.

The presence of schistocytes (fragmented red blood cells) on the peripheral blood smear suggests red blood cell injury from damaged endothelium and is a characteristic feature of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia.

Dec 3, 2015 · Schistocytes are split red blood cells that indicate microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. Their presence in a peripheral smear is the hallmark for diagnosing thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP).

Schistocytes are fragments of red blood cells (RBCs) or amputated erythrocytes, from which those fragments have arisen, produced by extrinsic mechanical damage within the circulation.

Schistocytes are sometimes called ‘ helmet cells. ‘ Schistocytes, or fragments of erythrocytes, are found in many blood diseases. They are smaller than normal red blood cells and are variable in shape.

Jan 13, 2016 · Schistocytes are red cell fragments that may be present in microangiopathic hemolysis and other causes of mechanical hemolysis. Schistocytes are smaller than red blood cells, lack central pallor, and have sharp angles and/or straight borders.

Fragmented red blood cells with varying shapes and sizes. Cells often appear small, with multiple pointed and angular ends and lack an area of central pallor. 1,2. Cell Formation: Formed in circulation when a red blood cell is damaged by mechanical means (e.g. damaged by fibrin strands or mechanical heart valves).

Jun 22, 2025 · Schistocytes, or fragmented red blood cells, are critical indicators observed during a peripheral blood smear. A hematologist often identifies these irregular cells, whose presence can signal underlying medical conditions.