A schistocyte or schizocyte is a fragmented part of a red blood cell. Schistocytes are typically irregularly shaped, jagged, and have two pointed ends.

What does it mean if you have schistocytes?

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.

What causes schistocytes in blood smear?

Schistocyte formation occurs as a result of mechanical destruction (fragmentation hemolysis) of a normal red blood cell. This occurs when there is damage to the blood vessel and a clot begins to form. The formation of the fibrin strands in the vessels occurs as part of the clot formation process.