Hemolysis
Definition
Hemolysis is the breakdown of red blood cells.
See also: Hemolytic anemia
Information
Red blood cells normally live for 110 - 120 days. After that, they die and break down.
Some diseases and processes cause red blood cells to break down too early. The result is a lot fewer red blood cells to carry oxygen.
Conditions that can cause hemolysis include immune reactions, toxins and poisons, and treatments such as hemodialysis or the use of the heart-lung bypass machine.
References
Hoffman R, Benz Jr. EJ, Shattil SJ, et al. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 4th ed. Philladelphia, Pa: Churchill Livingston; 2005.
Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004.
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