Which of the following events would tend to cause a decrease in blood viscosity?
A) An increase in red blood cell count
B) Marked anemia
C) An increase in blood protein concentration
D) Both A and C

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Anemia is a condition in which there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a decrease in hemoglobin content per red blood cell, resulting in decreased blood viscosity. A decrease in red blood cell count (option A) would increase blood viscosity due to a decrease in the flow of blood which can lead to more friction between blood cells. An increase in blood protein concentration (option C) can increase blood viscosity as proteins have large molecules that can interfere with the flow of blood. Therefore, option B, marked anemia which leads to a decrease in the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin content, is the right choice for a decrease in blood viscosity.

Which of the Following Events Would Tend to Cause a Decrease