The shape of erythrocytes has a significant impact on their function. These cells are characteristically round and hollow. This increases the flexibility of red blood cells and allows them to pass smoothly through narrow closed blood vessels. In addition, the dense hemoglobin in the interior of erythrocytes increases their oxygen carrying capacity.
What is erythrocyte (RBC)?
Erythrocytes, also known as red blood cells (RBC), are one of the most important components of blood. It is the most common of the cells in the blood. Their main function is to carry oxygen to the body and transport and excrete carbon dioxide. Erythrocytes carry oxygen from the lungs to other tissues in the body, and at the same time, they also take carbon dioxide and take it back to the lungs. In this way, they provide oxygen to the cells and ensure the balanced functioning of the body. Erythrocytes are produced in the bone marrow and remain in circulation for approximately 120 days. It is then broken down in organs such as the spleen and liver and new ones are produced instead.
What does high erythrocyte (RBC) mean?
Having more red blood cells (RBCs) than normal in the blood is called erythrocytosis or polycythemia. Erythrocytosis is a serious condition that can lead to various health problems. Causes of high erythrocyte count are:
- Inappropriate red blood cell production
- living at high altitude
- COPD
- kidney disease
- Kidney cancer and some types of cancer
- Some rare genetic disorders
High erythrocyte count in the urine (hematuria) is the abnormal presence of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in your urine. Normally, there are no erythrocytes in the urine. High red blood cells in the urine may be a sign of a serious condition. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor if you are experiencing this problem.
What does low erythrocyte (RBC) mean?
Low erythrocyte (RBC) levels mean that there are not enough healthy red blood cells in the blood. A low number of erythrocytes leads to a condition called anemia, in which tissues do not receive enough oxygen. There may be many reasons for low erythrocyte count. Some of those:
- iron deficiency
- B12 deficiency
- folate deficiency
- blood loss
- bone marrow diseases
- chronic diseases
- Side effects of some medications
This information is for informational purposes only. If you have a medical problem, please consult your doctor.