Which condition is an example of poikilocytosis?

Poikilocytosis refers to the presence of abnormally shaped red blood cells in the blood. This condition can indicate various types of blood disorders. Sickle cell anemia is a prime example of poikilocytosis, as it is characterized by the production of crescent-shaped (or sickle-shaped) red blood cells. These abnormally shaped cells not only hinder the normal flow of blood but also lead to complications in circulation and oxygen delivery throughout the body.

In contrast, conditions like iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia involve issues related to the size and color of red blood cells, while hemolytic anemia primarily refers to the rapid destruction of red blood cells rather than their shape. Thus, the unique characteristic of red blood cells associated with sickle cell anemia makes it a fitting example of poikilocytosis.