Howell-Jolly bodies
Pronunciation: /ˈhaʊəl ˈdʒɒli/
Nuclear remnants visible as small, round, densely staining inclusions in red blood cells, indicating splenic dysfunction or absence.
Full Definition
Howell-Jolly bodies are basophilic nuclear remnants found within mature erythrocytes, appearing as small, round, purple-staining inclusions on Wright-stained blood smears. They represent fragments of DNA that normally would be removed by an intact spleen through a process called pitting. Their presence indicates functional or anatomic asplenia, making them important markers in pediatric hematology for assessing splenic function. In sickle cell disease, Howell-Jolly bodies often appear early in childhood due to autosplenectomy from repeated infarctions.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate. Capitalize both proper names. Can abbreviate as H-J bodies in subsequent mentions.
In Context
- "Numerous Howell-Jolly bodies were noted on the blood smear, suggesting functional asplenia." — Hematology consultation
- "The presence of Howell-Jolly bodies confirmed that the child's spleen was no longer functioning normally." — Pediatric clinic note