What happens during hemolysis?

During hemolysis, blood cells, specifically red blood cells, undergo a process in which they break down and release their contents into the surrounding fluid. This can happen due to various factors, such as physical damage, immune reactions, or certain diseases, and ultimately leads to the cells dissolving or going into solution.

This degradation results in the release of hemoglobin, which can then be processed by the liver and kidneys. The breakdown of these cells is significant in medical contexts because it can affect oxygen transport, cause changes in blood chemistry, and may lead to conditions like anemia when red blood cell levels drop. Understanding hemolysis is crucial in health science, as it relates directly to various clinical conditions and their management.