MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Red blood cells, tear-drop shape

Skip navigation

Medical Encyclopedia

Red blood cells, tear-drop shape

This photomicrograph shows one of the abnormal shapes that red blood cells (RBCs) may assume, a tear-drop shape. Normally, RBCs are round.

Update Date: 3/22/2007

Updated by: Carl T. Henningson, Jr. MD, Private Practice specializing in Hematology and Oncology, Manasquan, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2008, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.