Schistocytes are fragmented red blood cells that form when cells are torn by mechanical forces. This could be caused by a mechanical heart valve or fibrin strands in the blood vessels.

They are seen in Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC), Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP), and microangiopathic hemolytic anemias.

Appearance

Schistocytes are fragmented red blood cells that lack central pallor and have pointed ends or projections. They may be triangular, irregular, or helmet-shaped (AKA bite cells).