Haemolysis

/hɪˈmɒlɪsɪs/ noun

Definition

The breakdown and destruction of red blood cells, which causes the release of hemoglobin into the surrounding fluid.

Etymology

From Greek 'haima' (blood) + 'lysis' (a loosening, dissolving, or breaking down). The suffix '-lysis' comes from 'lyein' meaning 'to break apart', a concept central to understanding many biological processes.

Kelly Says

Haemolysis is why some infections turn you jaundiced (yellowish)—as red blood cells burst open and release hemoglobin, your liver struggles to process the overflow, turning your skin the color of old pennies.

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