Subsection 1.5.2: Erythrocytes (Red Blood Cells)

Erythrocytes (Red Blood Cells)

• Function: Carry oxygen throughout the body using hemoglobin, an iron-containing protein and red pigment that gives blood its color. They also pick up carbon dioxide from the tissues and unload it in the lungs.

Erythrocytes (Red Blood Cells)

Appearance: Easily distinguished from other formed elements by their reddish-pink color, biconcave shape (thick rim with thin sunken center), and the absence of nuclei and most organelles when mature

Erythrocytes (Red Blood Cells)

• Production: Formed in the red bone marrow through a process called erythropoiesis, which takes 3 to 5 days. Stimulated by the hormone erythropoietin. Lifespan is about 120 days.

Too low (anemia)

May cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

Too high (polycythemia)

Can increase blood viscosity and raise the risk of clotting and stroke.