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 for adults. 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 … Read more
Neutropenia is a condition characterized by decreased levels of neutrophils. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell, specifically a granulocyte, and are crucial to the body’s ability to fight infection. The absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is calculated by multiplying the white blood cell count by the sum of the percentages of neutrophils (segmented neutrophils … 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. The overproduction of abnormal cells crowd … Read more
Sickle cell anemia, also known as sickle cell disease (SCD), affects the oxygen-carrying red blood cells (RBCs). Healthy RBCs transport oxygen to every body part and organ system. RBCs are typically round and flexible, so they may readily pass through blood vessels. In sickle cell anemia, RBCs are rigid and sticky, giving them the appearance … Read more
Blood primarily functions as a transporter of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products to and from different parts and organs of the body. A blood transfusion is a standard medical intervention that replaces blood lost due to the following reasons: Blood Components Blood components that a patient may receive include: Packed red blood cells (PRBCs) are … 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 blood flow through the vein. A clot can become life-threatening if it dislodges and travels to the heart and lungs, … 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
Anemia occurs when there are not enough red blood cells or red blood cells do not function properly, resulting in low hemoglobin and a lack of oxygen throughout the body. Anemia is caused by blood loss, decreased red blood cell (RBC) production, or the destruction of RBCs. There are many types of anemia. While some … Read more