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Description

Macrocytes are large red blood cells that can be seen under a microscope. They are typically seen in patients with certain types of anemia, such as megaloblastic anemia.

The clinical test for macrocytes is obtained from a patient's whole blood sample. The sample is first collected in a tube containing an anticoagulant, such as EDTA. The sample is then centrifuged to separate the red blood cells from the other components of the blood. The red blood cells are then stained with a special dye and examined under a microscope. The size of the red blood cells is then measured and compared to the normal range. If the red blood cells are larger than normal, then the patient is diagnosed with macrocytes.

Synonyms

• macrocytosis

Some Diseases Associated with an Abnormal Macrocytes

• malignant neoplasm
• heart valve disorder
• celiac disease
• anemia
• chronic liver disease
• hypothyroidism
• chronic kidney disease
• nonmedicinal toxicity
• drug side effect

Detailed Laboratory Testing Information (use the custom search buttons below to find details on these topics)

All of the following must be considered when interpreting clinical findings and are too extensive to be covered on this site: