HEMOGLOBINURIA Meaning and
Definition
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Hemoglobinuria is a medical condition characterized by the presence of hemoglobin in the urine. Hemoglobin is the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells. Under normal circumstances, hemoglobin remains enclosed within red blood cells, but in hemoglobinuria, for various reasons, hemoglobin is released into the blood plasma and subsequently appears in the urine.
This condition can be caused by several factors, including certain underlying disorders or diseases, such as malaria, sickle cell disease, or leukemia. Hemoglobinuria may also occur as a result of physical trauma, strenuous exercise, or exposure to extreme temperatures. In addition, certain medications or toxins can induce the condition.
Typically, hemoglobinuria is associated with the abnormal breakdown of red blood cells, known as hemolysis, which leads to the release of hemoglobin into the bloodstream. When hemoglobin enters the kidneys, it can be filtered out and excreted in the urine, giving it a characteristic reddish, brownish, or dark appearance.
The presence of hemoglobinuria can be detected through a urine test, specifically the observation of red or pink coloration. Diagnosis of the underlying cause usually requires additional medical evaluation, including blood tests, imaging studies, or a physical examination.
Treatment for hemoglobinuria focuses on addressing the underlying cause or condition. This may involve medication to control inflammation, infectious agents, or toxin exposure. In more severe cases, blood transfusions might be necessary to replace the damaged red blood cells. Hemoglobinuria can be a serious condition, and prompt medical attention is essential to prevent complications and manage the underlying cause effectively.
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The presence of hemoglobin in the urine as voided, giving to it a dark reddish color.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HEMOGLOBINURIA
Etymology of HEMOGLOBINURIA
The word "hemoglobinuria" has its roots in two components: "hemoglobin" and "uria".
1. Hemoglobin: The word "hemoglobin" originates from the combination of two Greek words: "haima" meaning "blood" and "globin" meaning "a protein". Hemoglobin refers to the iron-containing protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body's tissues.
2. Uria: The suffix "-uria" is derived from the Greek word "ourea", which means "urine". It is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to the presence of a substance in the urine.
Therefore, when combined, "hemoglobinuria" refers to the condition or presence of hemoglobin in the urine. This term is often used to describe a medical condition characterized by the breakdown of red blood cells and subsequent release of hemoglobin into the urine.
Similar spelling words for HEMOGLOBINURIA
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