Erythroid atypia implying injury to hemoglobin synthesis: Observations in specific-pathogen-free chicks

Authors: Paul F. Cotter

Arch.Life.Sci.Res. 2026. vol. 2, Iss. 1 pp:11-16
Doi: https://doi.org/10.51585/alsr.2026.1.0009

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Abstract:

Atypical erythrocytes (RBCs) were identified during standard differential counts (SDC) of Wright-Giemsa (WG) stained blood smears collected on day 6 from disease-free specific pathogen-free (SPF) chicks raised in isolators. Some cells exhibited a crescent shape and contained full hemoglobin (Hb), whereas other crescent-shaped cells were younger polychromatic types (pRBCs) that were only partially hemoglobinized. These cells share characteristics with mammalian sickle cells and thalassemia cells, also referred to as “target cells,” which are typically associated with point mutations in the Hb-β gene or more complex genetic alterations. Two types of reticulocytes, punctuated (pRtc) and network (nRtc), were observed in the same samples and are distinguished by the amount of retained endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Certain atypical developmental RBCs, designated as “akanonistosis” types (AK), display irregular membranes and represent a novel form of defective RBCs. Additionally, RBCs with vitreous cytoplasm and others undergoing amitosis were identified among AKs, sickle cells, and atypical leukocytes. These findings collectively suggest the presence of defective Hb genes, either resulting from mutation or arising early in erythropoiesis. Incorporating a description of RBC morphology enhances the “blood picture” by providing valuable information to the SDC. 

Keywords:

Akanonistosis, Atypical erythrocytes, Hemoglobin Genes, Sickle-cells, Thalassemia

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