Red blood cells, or erythrocytes, are cells present in the blood, consisting mainly of hemoglobin and globulin, whose function is to carry oxygen to cells.
The quantity of red blood cells in the blood can be checked through a complete blood count (CBC). Monitoring this quantity is important during cancer treatment, as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and molecular target drugs can result in low red blood cells and lead to anemia. Additionally, involvement of the bone marrow by hematologic neoplasms can also cause anemia.
Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow and are broken down in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow itself. Among the products of red blood cell breakdown is bilirubin.
