Hematology: Red Blood Cell Mechanisms and Clinical Implications

Hematology is a branch of medical science concerned with the study of the blood and all components of blood. It also involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases of blood, bone marrow, and immunologic and vascular systems. The red blood cells or erythrocytes are important cellular components of the blood. Their main function is to carry fresh oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. Carbon dioxide is removed from the body through the process of exhalation. The diseases related to red blood cells are caused due to a lack of iron or vitamins in the diet. Diseases of erythrocytes include several forms of anemia. It is a condition characterized by low count of healthy blood cells, which can transport adequate oxygen to different parts of the body. Major symptoms of anemia are tiredness, fast heart rate, pale skin, feeling cold, and in severe cases, heart failure. Some common forms of anemia are iron-deficiency anemia, sickle cell anemia, normocytic anemia, hemolytic anemia and fanconi anemia. This book unravels the recent studies in the field of hematology. It presents researches and studies on red blood cell mechanisms and clinical implications, performed by experts across the globe. Those in search of information to further their knowledge will be greatly assisted by this book.