What is the term for the rupture of the red blood cell membrane?

The term for the rupture of the red blood cell membrane is hemolysis. This process involves the destruction of red blood cells, leading to the release of hemoglobin into the surrounding fluid, such as plasma. Hemolysis can occur due to various factors, including autoimmune reactions, infections, certain toxins, or mechanical damage. This process is significant in medical contexts, as excessive hemolysis can lead to anemia and other complications.

The other terms listed are related to different medical conditions: hemorrhage refers to bleeding, bacteremia involves the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream, and polycythemia denotes an increase in the number of red blood cells. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in medical terminology, as they describe different pathological processes.