METHAEMOGLOBIN Meaning and
Definition
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Methaemoglobin is a type of hemoglobin that forms when the iron in hemoglobin is oxidized from the ferrous (Fe2+) to the ferric (Fe3+) state. Unlike normal hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to tissues and releases it as needed, methaemoglobin cannot effectively bind to or release oxygen. This alteration in the iron state and structure of hemoglobin occurs when certain chemicals, drugs, or genetic mutations interfere with its normal functioning.
Methaemoglobinemia is a medical condition that occurs when there is an excess of methaemoglobin in the blood. Individuals with methaemoglobinemia may experience varying symptoms depending on the degree of methaemoglobin present. At low levels, symptoms may be mild or absent, but as levels increase, cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes) may become apparent. In severe cases, decreased oxygen levels can lead to shortness of breath, fatigue, confusion, dizziness, or even loss of consciousness.
The condition can be inherited or acquired. Inherited methaemoglobinemia is caused by genetic mutations that affect the production or function of enzymes involved in maintaining the iron in hemoglobin in the ferrous state. Acquired methaemoglobinemia can result from exposure to certain chemicals, such as nitrates, aniline dyes, or some medications, including certain anesthetics and antibiotics.
Treatments for methaemoglobinemia aim to reduce the levels of methaemoglobin and restore the normal oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Methods may include administering methylene blue, which can convert methaemoglobin back to functional hemoglobin, or providing supplemental oxygen to counteract the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
Common Misspellings for METHAEMOGLOBIN
- nethaemoglobin
- kethaemoglobin
- jethaemoglobin
- mwthaemoglobin
- msthaemoglobin
- mdthaemoglobin
- mrthaemoglobin
- m4thaemoglobin
- m3thaemoglobin
- merhaemoglobin
- mefhaemoglobin
- meghaemoglobin
- meyhaemoglobin
- me6haemoglobin
- me5haemoglobin
- metgaemoglobin
- metbaemoglobin
- metnaemoglobin
- metjaemoglobin
- metuaemoglobin
Etymology of METHAEMOGLOBIN
The word "Methaemoglobin" is derived from the combination of two terms: "meth-" and "haemoglobin".
1. The prefix "meth-" comes from the Greek word "meta" (μετά), meaning "beyond" or "after". In scientific terminology, this prefix is commonly used to denote a chemical compound that differs slightly from another compound or a modified version of it.
2. "Haemoglobin" (or Hemoglobin in American English) refers to the protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues. The term "haemoglobin" originates from the combination of two elements:
- "Heme" is derived from the Greek word "haima" (αἷμα), meaning "blood". It refers to the iron-containing component of haemoglobin responsible for binding and transporting oxygen.
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