Schistocytes aka aka aka

Red cell fragmentation
aka/or
Schistocytes
aka/or
Schizocytes
aka/or
Helmet cells

Schistocytes are fragmented red blood cells, and indicate mechanical damage causing hemolysis. The commonest cause is probably the presence of a mechanical heart valve, particularly when dysfunctional. Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura, and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation are other causes.