MICROCYTE Meaning and
Definition
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A microcyte refers to an abnormal red blood cell (erythrocyte) that is smaller than the average size of a normal red blood cell. In medical terminology, "micro" means small, and "cyte" denotes a cell, thus suggesting a small cell size. Red blood cells are typically measured by their average volume, and microcytes are characterized by having a reduced mean corpuscular volume (MCV) below the normal range, often defined as less than 80 femtoliters (fl).
The presence of microcytes in the blood can indicate various underlying conditions or disorders. The most common cause is iron deficiency anemia, a condition characterized by a decreased level of iron in the body, essential for the production of healthy red blood cells. Other potential causes include chronic diseases, malnutrition, thalassemia (a group of inherited blood disorders), and certain genetic or acquired conditions affecting the bone marrow.
Microcytes can be identified through a blood test called a complete blood count (CBC), which assesses various parameters of the blood, including red blood cell indices such as MCV. Treatment for microcytosis depends on the underlying cause. It often involves addressing the root condition, such as iron supplementation for iron deficiency anemia or managing an underlying chronic disease. Regular monitoring of red blood cell indices through periodic blood tests is typically recommended to track any improvements or changes in microcytosis.
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1. A small (5 µ or less) non-nucleated red blood-corpuscle, showing evidences of degeneration. 2. A multinuclear leucocyte.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MICROCYTE
Etymology of MICROCYTE
The word "microcyte" has Greek roots. It is derived from the Greek words "mikros", meaning "small", and "kytos", meaning "cell". "Microcyte" is a medical term used to describe abnormally small red blood cells.
Similar spelling words for MICROCYTE
- macrocyte,
- Microcid,
- microcentrum,
- microsporum,
- microcosm,
- microscope,
- microcode,
- microsite,
- microcircuit,
- microchip,
- microscopic,
- microsecond,
- microscopist,
- microsat,
- microcopy,
- microseism,
- MICROSOFT,
- microseed,
- microstomus,
- microzoid,
- microcity,
- MCRSD,
- microsd,
- microcytosis,
- meagrest,
- microzide,
- microsome,
- microcosmic,
- microzooid,
- micrococcus,
- microspore,
- microsuede,
- mogroside,
- macarised,
- microcephaly,
- micro-cook,
- microscopy.
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