Acanthocytosis
Reviewed by the medical team of El Doctor Editorial policy
Acanthocytosis is not a disease in itself, but a finding in blood tests: the presence of red blood cells with an irregular, spiny shape, called acanthocytes, which may be associated with different underlying conditions.
Common causes: It can be observed in hereditary disorders of fat handling, in liver diseases, in certain neurological conditions, or after removal of the spleen. For this reason, more than a diagnosis, it functions as a clue.
Why does it matter? On its own it does not usually produce symptoms; its relevance lies in signaling that it is advisable to investigate what causes it and to rule out other associated alterations.
Which specialist assesses it? When it is detected in childhood, the pediatrician studies the patient's context, reviews the family history, and decides which complementary tests to request. The advisable thing is to discuss the result in a consultation to interpret it within the overall picture.
Data on 24 doctors who treat acanthocytosis
Which specialist treats acanthocytosis?
Acanthocytosis is a red blood cell abnormality typically identified and followed from childhood, so it is managed by a pediatrician. If abnormal findings appear in a child's blood test, it's important for a pediatrician to follow up.
Treatment by city
Doctors specialized in acanthocytosis
Dr. Gerardo Arturo Nava Fuentes
Dr. Alberto Martinez Matuk
Dr. Pedro Silva Sanchez
Dr. Jose Carlos Licea Blanco
Dr. Adriana Miron Poumian
Dr. Rafael Barron Ramirez
Dr. Maximiliano Elguezábal Mendoza
Dr. Isaac Chicurel Levin
Dr. Karina Chavez Angeles
Dr. Edgar Allan del Valle Villafuerte
Dr. Juan Uriarte Duque
Dr. Braian Manuel Ortiz Campos
Dr. Esperanza Lomas Jaramillo
Dr. Gabriela Zarco Aguilar
Dr. Gabriela Rodríguez Romero
Dr. Ana Gabriela Uribe Navarrete
Dr. Adriana García Sosa
Dr. Gabriela Arreola Ramírez
Dr. Magdalena Bahena
Dr. Raul Vargas Gomez
Frequently asked questions
What is acanthocytosis?
Acanthocytosis is not a disease in itself, but a finding in blood tests: the presence of red blood cells with an irregular, spiny shape, called acanthocytes, which may be associated with different underlying conditions.
Which doctor treats acanthocytosis?
Acanthocytosis is a red blood cell abnormality typically identified and followed from childhood, so it is managed by a pediatrician. If abnormal findings appear in a child's blood test, it's important for a pediatrician to follow up.