What is the process called when old and defective red blood cells are removed?

The process of removing old and defective red blood cells is known as eryptosis. This is a type of programmed cell death specific to erythrocytes (red blood cells). It involves a series of biochemical changes that lead to the recognition and removal of these aged or damaged cells from circulation. During eryptosis, cellular changes such as membrane blebbing, cell shrinkage, and phosphatidylserine translocation to the outer membrane occur, marking the cells for removal by macrophages in the spleen and liver.

This differentiation is important as it directly impacts the health of the blood and the body's ability to transport oxygen efficiently. Unlike hemolysis, which refers to the breaking apart of red blood cells generally due to various physiological or pathological conditions, eryptosis is a controlled, normal process that plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance and functionality of blood cells within the body.