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Cabot rings are thin, red-violet staining, threadlike strands in the shape of a loop or figure-8 that are found on rare occasions in red blood cells (erythrocytes). They are believed to be microtubules that are remnants from a mitotic spindle, and their presence indicates an abnormality in the production of red blood cells.^[1] Cabot Rings, considerably rare findings, when present are found in the cytoplasm of red blood cells and in most cases, are caused by defects of erythrocytic production^[2] and are not commonly found in the blood circulating throughout the body.^[3]

Cytologic appearance

Cabot rings appear as ring, figure-8 or loop-shaped structures on microscopy. Cabot rings stain red or purple with Wright's stain.

Associated conditions

Cabot rings have been observed in a handful of cases in patients with pernicious anemia, lead poisoning, certain other disorders of red blood cell production (erythropoiesis).^[1]

History

They were first described in 1903 by American physician Richard Clarke Cabot (1868–1939).

References

^ ^a ^b McPherson, Richard A; MR Pincus (2011). Henry's clinical diagnosis and management by laboratory methods (22nd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier/Saunders. p. 526. ISBN 978-1437709742.
^ "Cabot Rings - LabCE.com, Laboratory Continuing Education". www.labce.com. Retrieved 2017-05-04.
^ "Cabot's Rings". www.chronolab.com. Archived from the original on 2018-05-14. Retrieved 2017-05-04.