Hemolysis and Changes in Erythrocyte Membrane Lipids

Extracellular Disorders Influencing HemolysisThe major extracellular abnormalities are those in serum lipoproteins that induce secondary changes in the red cells by modifying the equilibrium of the passive exchange of lipids between the plasma and the erythrocytes (reactions 1 and 3, Fig. 3).Hepatic DiseaseIn both obstructive and hepatocellular liver disease, red cells may become laden with excess cholesterol and, to a lesser extent, excess phospholipid.90 , 91 They then assume a "targeted" morphology on air-dried blood smears owing to the consequent excess of membrane surface area. Using the osmotic fragility as an indirect measure of surface area, Cooper has calculated . . .