Definition: A type of blood cell responsible for transporting oxygen to the body's tissue. It contains hemoglobin, an iron-rich protein that aids in carrying oxygen and gives blood its rich, red color.
The lifespan of the red blood cell is relatively long in comparison to white blood cells and platelets. They generally have a cycle of 120 days, but are replenished with red blood cells made in the bone marrow.
When the level of red blood cells in the body is reduced, the resulting condition is called anemia. Anemia is often a side effect of chemotherapy.
The lifespan of the red blood cell is relatively long in comparison to white blood cells and platelets. They generally have a cycle of 120 days, but are replenished with red blood cells made in the bone marrow.
When the level of red blood cells in the body is reduced, the resulting condition is called anemia. Anemia is often a side effect of chemotherapy.
Also Known As: erythrocyte, RBC
