Question for those in the medical field

[purple_magada]

Do any of you know what it means to have bent blood cells? My
5-month old had to have some blood drawn today for a CBC and a blood culture. His ped called today and said that his blood cells are bent but it is nothing to get worried about. He said that is doesn't mean leukemia or cancer. But as a mom I can't help but worry. I tried looking it up but I don't understand all that medical jargon.

 

[akizora]

I have never heard of "bent" red blood cells. This must be some sort of term that he or she uses to explain a medical term to parents. But honestly I can't think of what entity this would represent. The real mystery is why he or she would mention it to you, then say it is not important. Then why mention it? Ask for clarification.
Amy:+

 

[purple_magada]

Amy that is exactly what I thought. His ped is the director of infectious disease at the hospital so I trust him and know he would not mislead me, but c'mon, don't tell me that and expect me not to worry. His next appt is in April.

 

[naughtoj]

no idea whatsoever. I know Sickle Cell anemia alters the shape of your red blood cells. Maybe anemia in general? Hmmm. "bent"? Never heard that one!

 

[allwildgirl]

Have you tried Googling "bent blood cells"? When I tried it gave me a whole bunch of sites. Maybe something there would be helpful to you.

 

[Miss Lee]

I never heard of bent blood cells either. I would call his office and ask WTH he was talking about.

Michele

 

[endorphin_junkie]

Dana I have been looking through my Medical Dictionary and Pathophysiology books and have come to the conclusion that your doctor did not do right by you. To tell you that your precious Babe's blood cells are 'bent' and leave it at that was reckless. Of course you will worry and want more information to do what is best for your son, the doctor should have been more sensitive and respectful of your obvious intelligence!!!

I have looked at blood disorders that involve mis-shapen red blood cells (RBCs). Typical RBCs are round and biconcave (kind of like a donut) elliptocytes are referred to as oval RBCs, spherocytes are round RBCs. I would want to talk to my doctor as mishapen RBCs may not pose a huge threat but may predispose your son to anemia. I wish I could be more help, and I wish I could give your doctor a piece of my mind!!! (Not that I can spare any)!

Take Care
Laurie

edited for spelling