FRCPath Haematology Part 2: Morphology RBC Morphology Overview Basophilic Stippling

Basophilic stippling results from RNA remnants (aggregates of ribosomes) in the RBC.

Causes:

  • Indicative of dyserythropoiesis
  • Thalassaemias
  • Megaloblastic anaemia
  • Infections
  • Liver disease
  • Lead and other heavy metal poisoning
  • Unstable haemoglobin
  • Pyrimidine-5′-nucleotidase deficiency
Basophilic Stippling. Peripheral blood film from a patient who had a splenectomy, showing basophilic stippling.
Peripheral blood film from a patient who had a splenectomy, showing basophilic stippling of a target cell.
Basophilic Stippling. Peripheral blood film from a patient who had a splenectomy, showing basophilic stippling in two cells (red arrows).
Peripheral blood film from a patient who had a splenectomy, showing basophilic stippling in two cells (red arrows).
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