Cigar cell

Cigar cells (also referred to as pencil cells) are red blood cells that are cigar or pencil shaped on Peripheral blood smear. Cigar cells are commonly associated with hereditary elliptocytosis. However, they may also be seen in iron deficiency anemia and other pathological states that decrease red blood cell turnover and or production. In the case of iron deficiency anemia, microcytosis and hypochromia would also be expected.