When the ratio of the fluid portion of blood to the cellular portion of blood shifts, that is known as

• A. Hemoconcentration
• B. Hemolysis
• C. Polycythemia
• D. Leukocytosis

Answer: (A)

Hemoconcentration happens when the fluid portion (plasma) of blood decreases relative to the cellular portion, so the blood becomes more concentrated with cells and proteins. This often occurs with dehydration, fluid loss, or when a tourniquet is left on too long, causing plasma to be drawn away and leaving a higher concentration of red cells, white cells, and proteins. The result is an increased hematocrit and overall concentration of blood components. The other terms describe different processes: hemolysis is rupture of red cells, polycythemia is an overproduction of red cells, and leukocytosis is an elevated white cell count.