Hemolysis意思
"Hemolysis" is a medical term that refers to the rupture or destruction of red blood cells (erythrocytes), releasing their hemoglobin into the blood plasma. This process can occur within the blood vessels (intravascular hemolysis) or outside the blood vessels (extravascular hemolysis).
When red blood cells are destroyed, they release hemoglobin, which is then broken down into its component parts: iron (which is stored or excreted), bilirubin (which is processed by the liver and excreted in bile), and the yellowish pigment that gives bile and urine their color.
Hemolysis can occur due to various reasons, including:
-
Mechanical stress: Such as when the blood comes into contact with artificial surfaces (e.g., in heart valves or blood pumps) or when there is turbulence in the blood flow, as in certain anatomical abnormalities or during strenuous physical exercise.
-
Abnormal blood cells: Cells with structural abnormalities (sickle cell anemia, thalassemia) are more prone to hemolysis.
-
Autoimmune reactions: The body's immune system can mistakenly attack and destroy its own red blood cells, as in autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
-
Infections: Certain infectious agents, such as bacteria or viruses, can cause hemolysis.
-
Poisons or toxins: Exposure to certain chemicals, drugs, or environmental toxins can lead to red blood cell destruction.
-
Physical trauma: Severe trauma can cause hemolysis.
Hemolysis can lead to a decrease in the number of circulating red blood cells (anemia), which can result in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) due to the release of bilirubin. The diagnosis of hemolysis often involves measuring levels of hemoglobin, bilirubin, and other related substances in the blood, as well as examining the blood under a microscope to look for signs of damaged red blood cells. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the hemolysis.