Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
haemotoxic
Adjective
/ˌhiːməˈtɒksɪk/
Definition
Haemotoxic refers to substances that are toxic to the blood or blood cells, specifically those that damage red blood cells or affect blood coagulation.
Examples
- The venom of certain snakes is known to be haemotoxic, leading to severe bleeding in victims.
- Exposure to haemotoxic agents can result in serious health complications, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Scientists study haemotoxic substances to develop antidotes for snake bites.
Meaning
The term is often used in toxicology to describe venoms or poisons that have harmful effects on the blood system, leading to conditions like hemolysis, which is the destruction of red blood cells.
Synonyms
- Blood-toxic
- Hemotoxic
- Blood-damaging