What occurs during hemolysis?

When hemolysis occurs, red blood cells (RBCs) are disrupted or lysed, leading to the release of hemoglobin into the surrounding serum. This process causes the serum to take on a pinkish hue, indicating the presence of free hemoglobin. This can happen due to various factors, including the mechanical stress during collection, improper handling of specimens, or certain medical conditions affecting the red blood cells.

The presence of pink serum is an important diagnostic indicator and can signify that the sample is compromised, potentially affecting test results. Hemolysis is commonly assessed in laboratory settings, as it can interfere with numerous blood tests, and recognizing this effect allows for better interpretation of results and necessary corrective actions.