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Hematocrit (HTC) – What information does it provide from the blood count?
The hematocrit test shows the proportion of red blood cells in the blood, which provides important information about the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity. The measurement of hematocrit levels is part of a complete blood count and is essential for the joint evaluation of red blood cell counts, hemoglobin levels, and values related to hemoglobin concentration. In medical practice, hematocrit levels are often used to diagnose various hematopoietic system problems, as well as to identify bleeding and anemic conditions. Normal hematocrit levels for men range from 41-53%, while for women, they range from 37-44%. These values should be assessed in comparison to the reference values of the local laboratory, and it is…
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Characteristics, Types, and Therapeutic Options of Myelodysplastic Syndrome
The myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a condition characterized by abnormalities in the hematopoietic system, primarily marked by the immaturity of blood cells or a decrease in their numbers. This syndrome primarily affects the elderly population, but it can also occur in younger individuals. Understanding the diagnosis and treatment of MDS is crucial for patients, as the disease can have long-term consequences for quality of life and survival rates. Development of Myelodysplastic Syndromes Myelodysplastic syndromes develop in situations where the bone marrow fails to produce an adequate quantity and quality of blood cells. In MDS, immature or abnormal blood cells are formed, which die off in the bone marrow or bloodstream,…
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Reticulocyte value – What does the lab result show?
The reticulocytes are the young, still undeveloped forms of red blood cells that no longer contain a nucleus. They are typically found in low quantities in the bloodstream, as primarily mature red blood cells enter circulation from the bone marrow. These cells play an important role in the body’s oxygen supply, so the number and proportion of reticulocytes in the blood provide important information about bone marrow function and the efficiency of red blood cell production. Blood tests determine the quantity and proportion of reticulocytes, which helps doctors in establishing a diagnosis. Normal Reticulocyte Count The normal value for reticulocyte count is between 0.8-2.2%, as well as between 40-97 G/l.…
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Types of Anemia and the Factors That Cause It
The term anemia refers to a decrease in the number of red blood cells, as well as the levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit in the body. This condition significantly affects the body’s ability to transport oxygen, making it important to be aware of the possible causes and types of anemia. Anemia is not a standalone disease, but rather a symptom of another health issue that must be thoroughly investigated when symptoms arise. The causes and types of anemia are extremely varied and can differ among individuals. To uncover the underlying causes, professionals use various approaches, ranging from blood tests to identifying underlying diseases. Classifying anemias aids in establishing a diagnosis…
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The level of transferrin and its importance
A transferrin is an important glycoprotein responsible for the transport of iron ions in the bloodstream. Various transferrin molecules exist, but the most significant type delivers essential iron ions for red blood cell formation to the bone marrow. The role of iron is crucial, as it is a vital trace element for the body, influencing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood in connection with hemoglobin. The process of iron loss is not regulated, so the body can only control iron intake. As a result, examining parameters that indicate iron balance is essential. Since the transferrin molecule can bind two iron ions, it delivers the necessary iron to target cells, such…
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The disease of thalassemia
The hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, plays a crucial role in the body’s oxygen supply. The level and function of hemoglobin are key to ensuring that tissues receive adequate oxygen, as any disruption in hemoglobin formation can lead to anemia and hypoxic conditions. The macromolecules that make up hemoglobin have a complex structure, which includes a heme ring containing iron and four globin chains, two of which are alpha and two are non-alpha isoforms. Among the disorders of hemoglobin formation, thalassemia plays a prominent role, a group of hereditary diseases that affect the globin chain of hemoglobin. This disease complicates the normal production of hemoglobin, leading to…
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Unusual Blood Cell Production: Myelodysplastic Syndrome
The group of hematological diseases includes myelodysplastic syndrome, which is related to the abnormal functioning of the bone marrow. These disorders affect the formation of blood cells, leading to a decrease in the composition of the blood and the oxygen supply to the body. A characteristic feature of this group of diseases is that hematopoietic stem cells are unable to function properly, resulting in a deterioration in both the quantity and quality of blood cells. Myelodysplastic syndrome encompasses various forms, which are distinguished by the ratio of immature cell precursors, known as myeloblasts, found in the blood. Despite the popular name of the disease, it is not only the production…
