Haemolysis
Pronunciation: hee-MOL-i-sis
The rupture of red blood cells releasing haemoglobin into the surrounding plasma or serum, which can interfere with laboratory test results.
Full Definition
Haemolysis is a pre-analytical variable that occurs when red blood cell membranes rupture—either in vivo or as a result of improper specimen collection, transport, or processing—releasing intracellular contents into serum or plasma. It is a leading cause of specimen rejection in clinical laboratories because haemoglobin and intracellular enzymes (e.g., potassium, LDH, AST) released from lysed cells falsely elevate assay results. Editors should be aware that British/international spelling is 'haemolysis' while US spelling is 'hemolysis'; consistency within a document is essential. The adjective form is 'haemolysed' (not 'haemolyzed' in British usage).
Usage
Usage note: British spelling: 'haemolysis,' 'haemolysed.' US spelling: 'hemolysis,' 'hemolyzed.' Do not mix spellings. Haemolysis is distinct from 'lipaemia' (lipid interference) and 'icterus' (bilirubin interference)—three separate specimen quality indicators.
In Context
- "The specimen was rejected due to gross haemolysis, which would have compromised potassium and LDH measurements." — Specimen rejection report
- "Editors should standardise 'haemolysis' throughout British-style documents rather than alternating with the US variant 'hemolysis.'" — Editorial style guide note