What is the primary consequence of hemolysis?

What is the primary consequence of hemolysis?

• A. White blood cells rupture and release hemoglobin
• B. RBC rupture and release hemoglobin into the serum or plasma
• C. Platelets activate
• D. Clotting factors dissipate

Answer: (B)

Hemolysis means red blood cells have ruptured, releasing their contents into the serum or plasma. The primary consequence is free hemoglobin in the specimen, which colors the plasma pink to red and can interfere with many tests. This release of intracellular components can falsely alter certain analyte measurements (notably potassium and other RBC-borne substances) and can compromise the accuracy of photometric assays. It’s distinct from issues related to white blood cells or platelets, which are not the main result of hemolysis.

Hemolysis means red blood cells have ruptured, releasing their contents into the serum or plasma. The primary consequence is free hemoglobin in the specimen, which colors the plasma pink to red and can interfere with many tests. This release of intracellular components can falsely alter certain analyte measurements (notably potassium and other RBC-borne substances) and can compromise the accuracy of photometric assays. It’s distinct from issues related to white blood cells or platelets, which are not the main result of hemolysis.