An immune system malfunction is one cause.

Hemolytic anemia: Anemia caused by rapid bursting of large numbers of red blood cells (hemolysis).

Fatigue and breathlessness can result, although anemia often causes no noticeable symptoms.

Anemia: An abnormally low number of red blood cells in the blood.

The enlarging tissues, and disruption of blood's functions, can eventually cause organ failure.

Lymphoma: A form of blood cancer, in which white blood cells multiply abnormally inside lymph nodes and other tissues.

Anemia, kidney failure and high blood calcium levels are common in multiple myeloma.

Multiple myeloma: A form of blood cancer of plasma cells similar to leukemia.

The abnormal white blood cells make getting sick from infections easier than normal.

Leukemia: A form of blood cancer, in which white blood cells multiply abnormally and circulate through the blood.Internal bleeding often causes a hematoma. Hematoma: A collection of blood inside the body tissues.Internal bleeding (such as into the intestines, or after a car accident) may not be immediately apparent. Hemorrhage ( bleeding): Blood leaking out of blood vessels may be obvious, as from a wound penetrating the skin.Blood is prevented from clotting in the blood vessels by their smoothness, and the finely tuned balance of clotting factors. Platelets, smaller cells that help blood to clotīlood is conducted through blood vessels (arteries and veins).White blood cells, which fight infections.Red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the tissues.Blood plasma also contains glucose and other dissolved nutrients.Ībout half of blood volume is composed of blood cells: Plasma contains proteins that help blood to clot, transport substances through the blood, and perform other functions. The average person has about 5 liters (more than a gallon) of blood.Ī liquid called plasma makes up about half of the content of blood. Blood is mostly liquid, with numerous cells and proteins suspended in it, making blood 'thicker' than pure water. Blood is a constantly circulating fluid providing the body with nutrition, oxygen, and waste removal.

Blood & Spirits by Dennis Sharpe