Hemolysoid is a word used to refer to a structure similar to that of a lysozyme, which can destroy red blood cells. The word is pronounced /ˌhiːmɒlɪˈsɒɪd/. Its spelling is based on the root words hemo-, which means blood, and lyso-, which means to dissolve or break apart. The suffix -oid means resembling or similar to. Therefore, hemolysoid describes a structure that is similar in function or appearance to a lysozyme that breaks down red blood cells.
Hemolysoid is a term used in the field of medicine and refers to any substance or agent that has the ability to cause hemolysis – the destruction or breakdown of red blood cells. Hemolysoid may describe certain chemicals or drugs that possess the property of inducing hemolysis, resulting in the release of hemoglobin into the bloodstream.
Hemolysis is a process that can occur naturally in certain disease conditions or disorders, but it can also be induced by the administration of specific substances. Hemolysoids can be found in various forms, such as medications, toxins, or physical agents, and can act directly on the red blood cells or indirectly through other mechanisms.
The action of a hemolysoid typically involves disrupting the integrity of the red blood cell membrane, causing it to rupture and release its contents. As a result, hemoglobin, and other cellular components are released into the surrounding plasma. This can lead to various complications, including anemia, increased bilirubin levels, and jaundice.
Hemolysoid substances or agents are typically studied in medical research and toxicology to understand their effects on blood cells and the potential consequences in diseases or exposure scenarios. In clinical practice, detection of hemolysoid activity may be performed by laboratory tests that assess the concentration of free hemoglobin or other markers within the blood, helping to diagnose and monitor certain conditions.
An hemolysin which has lost its toxophore group while retaining the haptophore group, capable therefore of uniting with the blood-cell, but not of destroying it.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.