Etymed
hematopoiesis
Definition
The process of blood cell formation and development
Clinical context
A 28-year-old woman presents with fatigue and shortness of breath. Laboratory studies reveal microcytic hypochromic anemia with low serum iron levels. Further investigation shows increased erythropoietin levels and elevated reticulocyte count. The bone marrow biopsy shows hypercellular marrow with increased erythroid precursors. This patient's condition reflects compensatory hematopoiesis in response to iron deficiency anemia.
Mnemonic
HEMATOPOIESIS = Hematopoiesis = Hematopoietic cells in bone marrow