Megaloblastic anemia can occur when there is a deficiency of vitamin B-12. Normally, RBCs are round. In this condition, the RBCs assume an elliptical shape, rather than the typical round shape. Typically, the affected RBCs are small, spherically shaped, and lack the light centers seen in normal, round RBCs. The abnormal hemoglobin causes red blood cells to assume a sickle shape, like the ones seen in this photomicrograph.
Basophils are a specific type of white blood cell.
Basophils make up only a small portion of the number of white blood cells but are important parts of the body's immune response. They release histamine and other chemicals that act on the blood vessels when the immune response is triggered. Malarial parasites are visible within the red blood cells. They are stained a dark bluish color. Malaria is a disease caused by parasites.