Clinical Diagnosis · Haematological System · Medium
Haemolysis
Meaning: The breakdown or rupture of red blood cells, releasing their contents and potentially causing jaundice and anaemia.
In practice: A raised LDH, low haptoglobin and high bilirubin indicated ongoing haemolysis in the jaundiced patient.
Word parts
- haemo- means blood
- -lysis means breaking down
Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.
Quick check
Two questions on related clinical diagnosis words.
Which word means: The most common and aggressive primary malignant brain tumour in adults, arising from star-shaped support cells.
Answer: Glioblastoma
Which word means: A condition in which the body loses more fluid than it takes in, disrupting normal function.
Answer: Dehydration
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