Hemocytotripsis

/ˌhiːmoʊˌsaɪtəˈtrɪpsɪs/ noun

Definition

The fragmentation or breaking apart of blood cells due to mechanical forces or trauma, such as from pressure or shearing forces.

Etymology

From Greek 'haima' (blood) + 'kytos' (cell) + 'tripsis' (rubbing/friction). This term describes cellular damage caused by physical stress on cells.

Kelly Says

Hemocytotripsis can happen in extreme situations like severe burns, where damaged tissues release chemicals that cause red blood cells to shatter—or in counterfeit medications that are improperly manufactured, creating particles that damage cells as they circulate.

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