hemolysis
hee-MOL-uh-sis
/hɪˈmɒlɪsɪs/
The destruction, rupture, or dissolution of red blood cells, causing the release of hemoglobin into the surrounding fluid.
Can occur inside the body due to disease or transfusion reactions (in vivo), or outside the body due to rough handling of blood samples (in vitro).
The story behind the word. Combining the ancient Greek words for 'blood' and 'loosening' or 'dissolving' creates a vivid picture of blood cells literally dissolving and breaking apart, spilling their contents into the plasma.
Word relationships
- erythrocytolysis: An extremely technical synonym that is rarely used in standard clinical practice.
Commonly confused with
- hemorrhage: Hemorrhage is the loss of blood from the circulatory system, while hemolysis is the destruction of the blood cells themselves.
Word family
- hemolytic (adjective): Pertaining to or causing the destruction of red blood cells.
Collocations
- acute hemolysis
- hemolytic reaction
- in vitro hemolysis
Example sentences
- "The administration of mismatched blood triggered acute hemolysis, causing severe kidney damage as the released hemoglobin clogged the tubules." Transfusion reaction
Memory hook
Hemo (blood) + Lysis (split/burst). The blood cells are splitting open. Blood cells bursting.
When not to use
Do not confuse with hemorrhage, which is active bleeding from a ruptured blood vessel.
Fun facts
- If a phlebotomist uses a needle that is too small or draws blood too quickly, the physical shear stress can cause hemolysis in the tube, ruining the sample for testing.
Related words
Explore more words
hemorrhage, necrosis, hemostasis, dissolution, rupture, contusion
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