Hemoglobin is a protein in the blood that carries oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the tissues and organs back to the lungs. The body makes hemoglobin through iron, a natural component of red blood cells (RBC). Normal hemoglobin levels are 14 -18 g/dL for adult males and 12 – 16 g/dL for adult … Read more
Thrombocytopenia is characterized by a low platelet count, measuring below 150,000/mm³ (150 – 400 x10⁹/L). A normal platelet count is 150,000 – 400,000/mm³. Platelets are blood cells that aid in coagulation efforts for normal blood clotting. Low platelet counts increase the risk of bleeding. Thrombocytopenia occurs when the bone marrow doesn’t make enough platelets, such … Read more
Neutropenia is a condition characterized by decreased levels of neutrophils. The absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is determined by multiplying the white blood cell count by the percentage of neutrophils. The normal range is between 2,500 – 6,000 cells/mL. A neutrophil count below 500 cells/mL is considered neutropenia. The clinical significance of neutrophils relates to the … Read more
Anaphylaxis is an acute hypersensitivity reaction with potentially life-threatening consequences. It is often a sudden, multi-system, widespread allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis frequently results in death if untreated because it quickly progresses to respiratory failure. Anaphylactic reactions have traditionally been classified as Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated responses, whereas anaphylactoid reactions are IgE-independent responses. The clinical condition and treatment … Read more
Leukemia refers to a group of cancers affecting the blood and other blood-forming tissues of the lymphatic system, bone marrow, and spleen. Leukemia is the most common childhood cancer but can occur in all age groups. Like other cancers, leukemia results from a mutation in the DNA of cells. Leukemia may occur from a combination … Read more
Sickle cell anemia affects the oxygen-carrying blood cells, known as red blood cells (RBCs). Round, healthy RBCs transport oxygen to every body part and organ system. RBCs typically have a round shape and are flexible, so they may readily pass through blood vessels. In sickle cell anemia though, RBCs are rigid and sticky giving them … Read more
Peripheral vascular disease (PVD), also known as peripheral artery disease (PAD), is a condition characterized by slow and progressive narrowing of the arteries of the extremities. This condition stems from structural damage in the blood vessels often caused by atherosclerosis. Additional risk factors include: PVD can lead to gangrene and limb amputation in the affected … Read more
Blood primarily functions as a main transporter of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products to and from the different parts and organs of the body. Blood and blood products may be transfused to a patient in a procedure referred to as blood transfusion. This potentially life-saving procedure helps replace blood lost due to injury or surgery, … Read more
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) refers to the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) within a deep vein, usually in the leg (thigh or calf). Once the blood clot forms, it can partially or completely block the flow of blood through that vein. Some common causes of DVT include immobility, trauma or damage to the vein, … Read more
Sepsis is when an infection, usually bacterial in nature, enters the bloodstream causing a systemic infection with an extreme immune response. Sepsis is life-threatening and requires early intervention to prevent septic shock which can lead to organ failure and death. Sepsis often develops very quickly and has a high mortality rate if not recognized and … Read more