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How much hemoglobin is present approximately in each normal human red blood cell?
Question

How much hemoglobin is present approximately in each normal human red blood cell?

A.

​19 pg

B.

​29 pg

C.

​39 pg

D.

​49 pg

Correct option is B


The correct answer is (b) 29 pg. Each normal human red blood cell contains approximately 29 picograms (pg) of hemoglobin. This quantity is crucial for the cell's oxygen-carrying capacity. Hemoglobin concentration in a red blood cell determines its ability to transport oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation.

Information Booster:

  1. Hemoglobin content per RBC: Typically around 29 pg in healthy individuals.
  2. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH): A measure used in blood tests, calculated as the total hemoglobin divided by the red blood cell count. The normal range is 27–31 pg.
  3. Role of hemoglobin: It binds oxygen via its iron-containing heme groups and facilitates oxygen delivery throughout the body.
  4. Variations in hemoglobin levels: Low MCH indicates hypochromic anemia, while high MCH might suggest macrocytosis.
  5. Red blood cell count: Normal RBCs contain a consistent hemoglobin amount, essential for maintaining efficient gas exchange.

Additional Knowledge:

(a) 19 pg:
This value is below normal and might indicate hypochromic anemia, where red blood cells lack sufficient hemoglobin. Conditions like iron deficiency can cause such low levels.

(b) 29 pg:
This is the correct answer. It represents the average hemoglobin content in a normal, healthy red blood cell. Hemoglobin concentration directly influences the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.

(c) 39 pg:
This value is higher than normal and could indicate macrocytosis, a condition where red blood cells are larger than average, often seen in vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.

(d) 49 pg:
Such a high value is abnormal and might occur in extreme cases of macrocytosis or other pathological conditions involving abnormal red blood cell morphology.

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