Basophilic stippling is indicative of disturbed erythropoiesis. It can also be found in some normal individuals.

Why do you see basophilic stippling?

The presence of basophilic stippling is attributed to aggregates of ribosomes or fragments of ribosomal RNA precipitated throughout the cytoplasm of circulating erythrocytes. This finding is associated with acquired and heritable hematologic disorders affecting erythropoiesis and erythrocyte maturation.

What conditions have basophilic stippling?

Basophilic stippling is seen in lead poisoning, impaired Hb synthesis, alcoholism, and megaloblastic anemias (Figure 61.6A).