leukoerythroblastic reaction
Pronunciation: LOO-koh-eh-RITH-row-blas-tik reaction
The presence of immature white and red blood cells in peripheral circulation, often indicating bone marrow stress or infiltration.
Full Definition
A leukoerythroblastic reaction describes the appearance of nucleated red blood cells and immature white blood cells (such as myelocytes and metamyelocytes) in the peripheral blood smear. This finding suggests bone marrow stress, infiltration by malignant cells, infection, or severe anemia. In hematologic oncology, it may indicate bone marrow involvement by hematologic malignancies, myelofibrosis, or a reactive process. The presence of this pattern warrants further bone marrow evaluation to determine the underlying cause.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as 'leukoerythroblastic picture' in pathology reports.
In Context
- "The blood smear showed a leukoerythroblastic reaction with nucleated RBCs and early myeloid forms." — Laboratory report
- "A leukoerythroblastic reaction prompted bone marrow biopsy to exclude malignant infiltration." — Clinical decision-making note