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Alterations in red blood cell morphology during a 500 metre dive
Acta Morphologica Neerlando-Scandinavica
|January 1, 1986
Summary
Hyperbaric exposure during simulated dives caused red blood cell (RBC) changes and stress. Extended decompression further altered RBC morphology, potentially leading to subclinical anemia.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Hematology
- Diving Medicine
Background:
- Hyperbaric environments pose physiological challenges.
- Red blood cells (erythrocytes) are crucial for oxygen transport.
- Understanding RBC response to pressure is vital for diver safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphological changes in erythrocytes after hyperbaric exposure and decompression.
- To assess the impact of decompression rates on red blood cell integrity.
- To explore the relationship between red cell morphology and hemoglobin concentration.
Main Methods:
- Simulated chamber dive to 500m.
- Analysis of blood samples for erythrocyte morphology.
- In vitro decompression procedures.
- Assessment of cell counts and hemoglobin concentration.
Main Results:
- Compression induced stress and sensitization in erythrocytes.
- Longer decompression times led to further morphological changes (stomatocytes, echinocytes).
- Acidic fixatives increased stomatocyte formation; alkaline media caused echinocytosis.
- Reduced echinocyte numbers correlated with decreased hemoglobin concentration.
- Hyperbaric exposure duration influenced red cell anomalies and anemia development.
Conclusions:
- Hyperbaric exposure and prolonged decompression significantly alter erythrocyte morphology.
- Decompression rates affect red blood cell integrity.
- A recommended decompression rate of 3 m/min is suggested for routine hematology within 4 hours of venesection.
- Development of subclinical anemia is linked to hyperbaric exposure time.