Siderocyte

Siderocyte: what is it and how are they formed

Siderocytes are special blood cells that have the ability to accumulate iron in their tissues. These cells are a type of red blood cells, the main blood cells that are responsible for transporting oxygen to the organs and tissues of our body. Siderocytes got their name due to the presence in their internal structure of iron-containing protein granules, which are called Pappenheimer bodies.

Finding siderocytes in the blood may indicate that a person has certain diseases, such as hemochromatosis, an inherited disorder in which too much iron accumulates in the tissues. However, in some cases, siderocytes can form in the absence of disease. For example, if a person has had their spleen removed, which is usually involved in the destruction of old red blood cells, then siderocytes may be formed in larger numbers, since these cells cannot be destroyed in the body.

Siderocytes are detected during microscopic examination of blood, when the cells are stained with appropriate dyes. To visualize Pappenheim bodies, special stains such as periodic acid Schiff (PAS) or iron oxidase stain are often used.

Although the presence of siderocytes in the blood may indicate the presence of diseases, this is not always a sign of pathology. Some people may have small amounts of siderocytes in their blood without any visible symptoms or effects.

In conclusion, siderocytes are a special type of red blood cell that can be produced in certain diseases or in the absence of a spleen. The detection of siderocytes in the blood may indicate the presence of certain diseases, but their presence is not always a sign of pathology. To detect siderocytes, special blood staining and microscopic analysis must be performed.



Siderocyte: Red blood cells with iron granules

Siderocytes, also known as ferrous red blood cells, are a special type of red blood cell that can contain iron-containing protein granules known as Pappenheimer bodies. By staining these cells with appropriate stains such as Gemsa or Perls, these granules become visible under the microscope.

Typically, red blood cells do not contain iron granules. However, in some people, especially those who have a missing or removed spleen, siderocytes can form in the blood. The spleen plays an important role in removing old and damaged red blood cells from the bloodstream. It filters the blood and removes cells that may be damaged or have an unusual structure. Siderocytes are usually destroyed in the spleen, so their presence in the blood indicates the absence or removal of a spleen in a person.

Pappenheim bodies, found in siderocytes, are small granules containing iron. They can come in different shapes and sizes, and their number can vary. The formation of these granules is associated with the presence of excess iron in the body or with a violation of its processing and metabolism. Siderocytes and Pappenheim bodies can be detected in blood tests during hematological studies.

In addition to removal of the spleen, the presence of siderocytes in the blood can be associated with various conditions and diseases, such as hemolytic anemia, hemoglobinopathies, thalassemia, hemochromatosis and other disorders of iron metabolism. The level of siderocytes in the blood can serve as a diagnostic indicator for identifying these conditions.

Microscopic analysis of stained blood slides is usually used to confirm the presence of siderocytes and Pappenheim bodies in the blood. Additional laboratory tests, such as measuring iron and ferritin levels in the blood, can help assess the body's overall iron status.

In conclusion, siderocytes are special red blood cells containing iron-containing protein granules known as Pappenheim bodies. They usually form in the absence or removal of the spleen and can be associated with various conditions and diseases associated with impaired iron metabolism. Detection of siderocytes and Pappenheim bodies in the blood may be a useful indicator for the diagnosis and evaluation of such conditions. Further studies and tests will help determine the cause of the presence of siderocytes and help develop suitable treatment.

It is important to note that this article provides general information about siderocytes and Pappenheim bodies and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. If you suspect you have siderocytes or have questions about your health, it is recommended that you consult your doctor for an individual assessment and advice.



Siderocytes (from the Latin Siderocytus - iron and cyt - cell) are special red blood cells that contain iron in their composition and are dark in color. They play an important role in the metabolic process and physiological processes of the body. In this article we will look in detail at what siderocytes are and what function they perform.

Siderocytes are found in the bodies of various animals and there are even birds that have these cells in the circulatory system. Iron is an important element in the body's metabolism due to its ability to transport oxygen and nutrients to cells. However, not all animals can absorb iron from food and for this they have another means - siderocytes. As part of the body's iron metabolism, they can be stored in the blood and transport it to cells that need iron. When siderocytes reach the end of their lifespan, they release iron and break down.

When there is iron deficiency anemia, which is caused by a lack of iron in a person’s blood, siderocytes begin to act as a kind of replacement. Instead of