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Biochemical values, complement levels, and hemostatic data in septic leukoerythroblastosis.
J S Krauss1, R K Dover, N K Khankhanian
1Department of Pathology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta 30912-3620.
Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Granulocytic fragments in blood smears are linked to leukoerythroblastosis in sepsis patients with high white blood cell counts. This finding aids in understanding this uncommon hematologic syndrome during acute infections.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Pathology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Leukoerythroblastosis is an uncommon syndrome characterized by leukocytosis, left shift, and nucleated red blood cells (nRBCs) disproportionate to anemia.
- It can be associated with various conditions including leukemia, bone marrow neoplasia, acute infection, hemolysis, and myelofibrosis.
Observation:
- A study identified granulocytic fragments on blood smears in nine patients with leukoerythroblastosis and sepsis.
- These fragments were confirmed using light microscopy, electron microscopy, and cytochemistry.
- The patients presented with high white blood cell (WBC) counts and acute infection.
Findings:
- The corrected WBC count averaged 40 x 10(9)/L with 33 nRBCs per 100 WBCs.
- Serum C3 and C4 levels showed variations before and after leukoerythroblastosis.
- Abnormalities in calcium, creatinine, total protein, albumin, total bilirubin, uric acid, triglycerides, and alkaline phosphatase were noted in some patients.
Implications:
- The presence of granulocytic fragments may serve as a diagnostic marker for leukoerythroblastosis in sepsis.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the exact role and mechanism of granulocytic fragments in this condition.
- Understanding these associations can improve the diagnosis and management of sepsis-related hematologic changes.