Erythrocyte aggregation

Erythrocyte Aggregation

Erythrocyte aggregation (pronunciation: eh-rith-ro-site ag-re-ga-tion) is a phenomenon that occurs when red blood cells, or erythrocytes, clump or aggregate together. This process is a normal physiological response but can be influenced by various factors such as the concentration of proteins in the blood, the presence of certain diseases, and the shear rate of blood flow.

Etymology

The term "erythrocyte aggregation" is derived from the Greek words "erythros" meaning red, "kytos" meaning hollow, and the Latin word "aggregare" meaning to come together.

Related Terms

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR): A blood test that can detect and monitor inflammation in the body.
Rouleaux Formation: A condition in which red blood cells stack together, forming a roll or stack, similar to a stack of coins. This is often seen in conditions that cause increased protein content in the blood.
Hematocrit: The ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the total volume of blood.
Blood Viscosity: A measure of the resistance of blood to flow.

Factors Influencing Erythrocyte Aggregation

Erythrocyte aggregation is influenced by several factors, including:

Plasma Protein Concentration: High concentrations of plasma proteins, particularly fibrinogen and globulins, can increase erythrocyte aggregation.
Shear Rate: The rate of blood flow can influence erythrocyte aggregation. Low shear rates can promote aggregation, while high shear rates can disrupt aggregates.
Disease States: Certain diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and inflammatory conditions, can increase erythrocyte aggregation.

Clinical Significance

Erythrocyte aggregation can have significant clinical implications. Increased erythrocyte aggregation can lead to impaired blood flow, which can contribute to the development of various diseases, including cardiovascular disease and stroke. Therefore, understanding and monitoring erythrocyte aggregation can be important in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.