Erythrocytes

Erythrocytes are red blood cells that normally should not be present in stool. Their appearance in microscopic sediment indicates damage to the gastrointestinal mucosa and bleeding.

• Normally, erythrocytes are absent in stool.
• Detection of erythrocytes indicates intestinal bleeding, which can be caused by ulcers, tumors, anal fissures, inflammatory diseases, or injuries.
• Erythrocytes may appear in acute and chronic intestinal diseases as well as hemorrhoids.
• Simultaneous presence of erythrocytes and leukocytes increases suspicion of an inflammatory process with bleeding.

Detection of erythrocytes in stool requires further investigation to clarify the bleeding cause and provide timely treatment.