Etymed
erythropoiesis
Definition
The process of producing red blood cells
Clinical context
A 65-year-old patient with chronic kidney disease presents with fatigue and shortness of breath. Laboratory studies reveal a low hemoglobin level with low reticulocyte count. The patient's kidneys are unable to produce adequate erythropoietin, leading to decreased erythropoiesis in the bone marrow. Treatment with exogenous erythropoietin stimulates red blood cell production and improves symptoms.
Mnemonic
Erythro = red, poiesis = making - think 'Erythro-POIESIS' as 'red blood cell PRODUCTION'