What does poikilocytosis refer to in blood testing?

Poikilocytosis specifically refers to the variation in the shape of red blood cells (RBCs). In laboratory medicine, the assessment of red blood cell morphology is crucial, as changes in the shape can indicate underlying health issues or diseases. For instance, abnormal shapes such as ovalocytes or sickle cells may suggest conditions like anemia or other hematologic disorders. Recognizing poikilocytosis enhances the diagnostic capability of blood tests, allowing healthcare providers to better understand a patient’s condition.

The other options describe different aspects of red blood cell characteristics or counts but do not accurately define poikilocytosis. Variation in size of RBCs pertains to anisocytosis, while decreases in the red blood cell count relates to anemias or blood loss, and an increase in white blood cell count is indicative of infections or inflammatory responses. Each term has its own specific meaning in hematology, emphasizing the importance of precise terminology in laboratory medicine.