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Spur cell anemia associated with extrahepatic biliary tract obstruction
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|September 1, 1983
Summary
Spur cell hemolytic anemia can occur with extrahepatic biliary obstruction. Relief of the obstruction and phase microscopy aided in diagnosis and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Extrahepatic biliary obstruction can lead to various complications.
- Spur cell hemolytic anemia is a rare condition affecting red blood cells.
Observation:
- Two patients with extrahepatic biliary obstruction presented with spur cell hemolytic anemia.
- Abnormal erythrocyte morphology (spur cells) was observed under phase microscopy.
- Plasma from affected patients induced spur cell formation in normal erythrocytes.
Findings:
- Hemolysis and abnormal erythrocyte morphology resolved upon relief of biliary obstruction.
- Normal plasma normalized spur cells from affected patients.
- Phase microscopy is crucial for detecting spur cells in this context.
Implications:
- Spur cell anemia may be more common in biliary obstruction than previously thought.
- Phase microscopy should be considered for diagnosing hemolytic anemia in patients with biliary obstruction.
- Understanding the plasma-mediated mechanism offers insights into erythrocyte membrane disorders.