Hematinic
Hematinic
Hematinic (pronunciation: /hɛməˈtɪnɪk/) is a term used in medicine to describe substances that are involved in the formation of blood cells.
Etymology
The term "hematinic" is derived from the Greek words "haima" meaning "blood" and "tikos" meaning "pertaining to".
Definition
A Hematinic is a medication or substance that increases the concentration of hemoglobin in the blood. These substances are typically used to treat anemia, a condition characterized by a deficiency in the number or quality of red blood cells.
Types of Hematinics
There are several types of hematinics, including:
- Iron supplements: These are often used to treat iron-deficiency anemia. Iron is a crucial component of hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
- Vitamin B12 and Folic acid: These are necessary for the production of red blood cells. Deficiencies in either of these can lead to certain types of anemia.
- Erythropoietin: This is a hormone produced by the kidneys that promotes the formation of red blood cells in the bone marrow.
Related Terms
- Anemia: A condition in which there is a deficiency of red cells or of hemoglobin in the blood, resulting in pallor and weariness.
- Hemoglobin: A red protein responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood of vertebrates.
- Erythropoiesis: The process which produces red blood cells (erythrocytes).
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hematinic
- Wikipedia's article - Hematinic
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