conrad fischer physio

[aspiringmd1015]

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in kaplan physio, the first chapter is fluid distribution. He says that the "cells" will swell or shrink in response to the ecf osmolarity. Makes total sense. But which cells is he talking about? the red blood cells? or the cells in the interstitium?

 

[cbrons]

Probably cells in general. RBCs or any other cell tend to shrink in hypertonic solution and expand in hypotonic solution.


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[cbrons]

Ohhh I just read the ECF osmolarity part. If the ECF osmolarity increases, water shifts from ICF to ECF causing expansion. The volume of ECF is increased, so the RBC concentration is decreased. Adding to this is the fact that RBCs will lose water to the hyperosmolal solution they are in, so they shrink (therefore hematocrit decreases).


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