Basophilic stippling

Definition:

In basophilic stippling, fine, basophilic dots are distributed over the entire erythrocyte. Like polychromasia, this is an indication of RNA remnants that lend a basophilic color to the cell.

Occurrence:
Basophilic stippling occurs with increased erythropoiesis as is typical in hemolysis or after replacement therapy in nutritional deficiency (iron, vitamin B₁₂). A coarse basophilic stippling is observed in lead poisoning.

• Increase erythropoiesis in hemolysis or after substitution in iron deficiency or vitamin B12-defeciency
• States of dyserythropoiesis
• Thalassemia carrier (Beta-Thalassemia, hemoglobin Constant Spring)
• Thalassemia major
• Megaloblastic anemia
• Congenital dyserythropoietic anemia
• Heavy metal intoxication (lead, arsen, bismuth, zinc, silver, mercury)
• Hereditary Pyrimidine-5'-Nucleotidase-defeciency.