Changes in RBC appearance caused by improper conditions of specimen handling and/or preparation. Appearance of normal erythrocytes in several of the commonly encountered animal species. Origin, identification and significance of reticulocytes and polychromasia, macrocytes and nRBC. Variations in red cell shape often can provide insights relative to anemia and other disease processes. Viral, metabolic, and developmental factors produce light microscopic changes of significance. Pathogenic and non-pathogenic protozoal and rickettsial agents with special affinity for erthrocytes.

© 1999 Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine prepared by TW French, JT Blue and T Stokol