Final answer:
Anaplasma forms microcolonies (morulae) in phagocytic white blood cells visible as dots in a Wright-Giemsa stained blood smear, while Howell-Jolly bodies are singular, nuclear remnants in red blood cells. Distinguishing the two involves identifying their location (white cells vs. red cells) and structure (clusters vs. single inclusions) under a microscope.
Step-by-step explanation:
Differentiating Anaplasma from Howell-Jolly Bodies
To differentiate Anaplasma from Howell-Jolly bodies in stained blood smears, it is important to recognize the characteristic features of both. Anaplasma, especially A. phagocytophilum, is known for forming morulae (microcolonies) inside phagocytic white blood cells, such as neutrophils or eosinophils. These morulae can be seen as clusters of dots or cocci-like bodies in the cytoplasm. In contrast, Howell-Jolly bodies are singular, small, round inclusions within red blood cells, typically representing nuclear remnants, and are usually seen in patients with certain anemias or post-splenectomy.
Use of a Wright-Giemsa stained blood smear is common in identifying Anaplasma by examining the intracellular structures of white blood cells under an oil immersion lens. PCR and serological tests can further verify the presence of Anaplasma. Whereas, the presence of Howell-Jolly bodies can usually be confirmed upon simple microscopic examination of red blood cells in similar stained smears.