Schistocyte (or schizocyte) by axonology on Sketchfab
John Chilton shares, “Schistocytes (sometimes called schizocytes, the derivation is exactly the same, it means split cell) are fragments of erythrocytes which have been mechanically damaged. In nature this happens when they get pushed through blood clots. Clots contain thick protein strands and these can act like a grater as the erythrocytes get forced through by the blood pressure. An additional, modern cause can be artificial, mechanical heart valves. They have no set shape and are typically recognised as damaged by macrophages in the spleen which remove them from circulation.”
Schistocyte (or schizocyte)
To view additional images of poikilocytes, refer to John Chilton’s Red Blood Cells – A Spotter’s Guide.
About the Artist
When I left school, I was torn between going to art college or studying a science degree. I chose science and spent 20 rewarding years in research, eventually leading a group studying neuronal development and lecturing at Peninsula Medical School in the UK. In 2019, I decided to leave the lab to concentrate on teaching, something I’d always enjoyed, and which opened up huge creative possibilities. This resolved the dilemma faced by my younger self, I now have the best of both worlds, finding ways to combine art and science in teaching material, online resources, and absurdly niche cartoons. You can see more of my work at axonology.com. When not teaching or drawing, I can usually be found in the nearest body of water.
