Acanthocytes are red cells that have a spherical core and a spiculated appearance. A typical acanthocyte lacks central pallor and has from 3 to 12 “spikes” or “knobs.” They can be seen in advanced liver disease (where they are referred to as spur cells), abetalipoproteinemia, and, occasionally, after splenectomy.

Peter Maslak, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center