Erythrocytes (RBC)

 

Normal case - Normal Erythrocytes

 

HS946 - Normal Erythrocytes

 

CHARACTERISTIC of Erythrocytes

Size

Average diameter is about 7.5 um

moderate variations in size

Outline

Approximately circular

Only minor variations in shape

Central area

In the area of a film where cells form a monolayer, a paler central area occupies approximately the middle third of the cell.

The normal shape and flexibility of a red cell are dependent on the integrity of the cytoskeleton to which the lipid membrane is bound.

Normocytic - the cells are of normal size.

Normochromic - the cells contain the normal amount of haemoglobin and therefore stain normally.

 

Reference:

  1. Blood Cells A Practical Guide, Barbara J. Bain, 2nd Edition,1995. P.47

Last updated on 25 February, 2000.

Prepared by HKMTAQAP Haematology & Serology Panel.

Copyright 2000 HKMTAQAP. All Rights Reserved.