Erythrocytes.
Erythrocytes are red blood cells that normally should not be present in stool. Their presence in microscopic sediment indicates damage to the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract and bleeding.
- Normally, erythrocytes are absent in stool.
- The detection of erythrocytes indicates bleeding in the intestine, which may be caused by ulcers, tumors, anal fissures, inflammatory diseases, or injuries.
- Erythrocytes can appear in both acute and chronic intestinal diseases, as well as hemorrhoids.
- The simultaneous detection of erythrocytes and leukocytes increases suspicion of an inflammatory process with bleeding.
The detection of erythrocytes in stool requires further examination to clarify the cause of bleeding and timely treatment.