helmet cell

Introduction

A schistocyte shaped like a military helmet.

Etiology

• microangiopathic hemolytic anemia
  • thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
  • hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)
  • disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
  • intravascular prostheses
  • other traumatic hemolytic anemia
  • (see microangiopathic hemolytic anemia)

Laboratory

• helmet cells in blood

More general terms

• schistocyte