Hematoidin

/ˌhɛmətɔɪˈdɪn/ noun

Definition

A reddish-yellow pigment derived from the breakdown of hemoglobin in red blood cells, found in bruises and areas of bleeding.

Etymology

From Greek 'haima' (blood) + '-oidin' (a chemical compound suffix). This term emerged in 19th-century medical chemistry to describe the actual chemical product of hemoglobin degradation.

Kelly Says

When you have a bruise that turns yellow-green, you're actually seeing hematoidin being formed as your body breaks down old blood—it's the chemical proof your injury is healing!

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