Erythrocytes
How important are erythrocytes for our heart health?
Erythrocytes are the red blood cells that are responsible for transporting oxygen around the body. They contain the protein haemoglobin, which binds oxygen and transports it to the various tissues. Erythrocytes are formed in the bone marrow and have a lifespan of about 120 days. The number of erythrocytes in the blood can provide information about various diseases.
Normal values for red blood cells are between 4.3 and 5.7 million per microlitre (µl) in men and between 3.9 and 5.2 million per microlitre (µl) in women. A low value may indicate anaemia (anaemia), which can be caused by iron deficiency, blood loss or chronic kidney disease. A high value may indicate erythrocytosis (polyglobulia), which can be caused by oxygen deficiency, smoking or bone marrow disease.
Erythrocytes are an important biomarker of heart health because they affect the amount of oxygen in the blood. Anaemia can lead to reduced oxygen supply to the heart, which can lead to heart failure or a heart attack. Erythrocytosis can lead to increased blood viscosity, which can lead to thrombosis or stroke.
To determine the erythrocyte count in the blood, a blood sample is taken and analysed in the laboratory. The results should always be interpreted in conjunction with other blood values and clinical symptoms. Treatment depends on the cause of the abnormality and may include medication, blood transfusions or phlebotomy.
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