Cabot rings
B - Howell-Jolly body
Cabot rings are thin, red-violet staining, threadlike strands in the shape of a loop or figure-8 that are found on rare occasions in red blood cells (erythrocytes). They are believed to be microtubules that are remnants from a mitotic spindle, and their presence indicates an abnormality in the production of red blood cells.[1]
Cytologic appearance
Cabot rings appear as ring, figure-8 or loop-shaped structures on microscopy. Cabot rings stain red or purple with Wright's stain.
Associated conditions
Cabot rings have been observed in a handful of cases in patients with pernicious anemia, lead poisoning, certain other disorders of red blood cell production (erythropoiesis).[1]
History
They were first described in 1903 by American physician, Richard Clarke Cabot (1868-1939).
References
- ^ a b McPherson, Richard A; MR Pincus. Henry's clinical diagnosis and management by laboratory methods (22nd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier/Saunders. p. 526. ISBN 978-1437709742.
Further reading
- Kass, L (July 1975). "Origin and composition of Cabot rings in pernicious anemia". American Journal of Clinical Pathology. 64 (1): 53–7. PMID 1155375.
External links
Template:Eponymous medical signs for hematology and oncology
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