Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 3, 2026

In Situ Exploration of Murine Megakaryopoiesis using Transmission Electron Microscopy
Published on: September 8, 2021
Megakaryocyte emperipolesis in a child with chronic neutropenia: an unusual coexistence
1Department of Pediatrics, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
Abstract:
The term emperipolesis defines the temporary presence of one cell within another's cytoplasm. In clinical use, megakaryocyte emperipolesis is the penetration of hematopoietic cells into the cytoplasm of megakaryocytes. The pathophysiological significance of megakaryocyte emperipolesis is uncertain. It has been described in association with neoplastic disorders, and in a few instances in idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, iron deficiency anemia, bleeding, and during the administration of recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. However, megakaryocyte emperipolesis in a patient with chronic neutropenia has not been reported. In the current report, emperipolesis of hematopoietic cells within megakaryocytes in a boy with chronic neutropenia is described and the possible mechanisms are discussed.
Insights
This study reports hematopoietic cell emperipolesis in a boy with chronic neutropenia, a phenomenon not previously documented in this condition. Further research is needed to understand its clinical significance.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Emperipolesis is defined as one cell temporarily residing within another's cytoplasm.
- Megakaryocyte emperipolesis involves hematopoietic cells penetrating megakaryocyte cytoplasm, with uncertain pathophysiological significance.
Observation:
- This report details a case of megakaryocyte emperipolesis in a pediatric patient diagnosed with chronic neutropenia.
- This observation is novel as megakaryocyte emperipolesis has not been previously reported in chronic neutropenia.
Findings:
- The presence of hematopoietic cells within megakaryocytes was observed in a patient with chronic neutropenia.
- The study discusses potential mechanisms underlying this phenomenon in the context of neutropenia.
Implications:
- This finding expands the known clinical associations of megakaryocyte emperipolesis.
- Further investigation into the mechanisms and clinical relevance of emperipolesis in chronic neutropenia is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
Hematopoiesis
Multipotency of Hematopoietic Stem Cells
Differentiation of Common Myeloid Progenitor Cells
Overview of Hematopoiesis
Developmental Phases of Hematopoiesis
Initially, HSCs are formed in the embryonic yolk sac, a critical site for early blood cell production. These stem cells subsequently migrate to other...
Disorders of Erythrocytes
Erythrocyte disorders can be broadly categorized into two main types: anemic and polycythemic conditions.
A low oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood due to the loss, lower production, or destruction of erythrocytes is termed anemia. Hemorrhagic anemia, for example, occurs when bleeding from an external wound or internal ulcer reduces erythrocyte counts.
On the other...
Disorders of Leukocytes
Leukopenia may result from bone marrow disorders, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. For example, conditions such as multiple myeloma and aplastic anemia can impair the bone marrow's ability to produce adequate leukocytes. Similarly, autoimmune diseases like lupus and viral infections such as HIV can prompt the immune system...

