Hemotoxic

Hemotoxic describes agents that are toxic to the blood or hematopoietic system. The term combines Greek haima (blood) and toxicon (poison), and is used in toxicology to refer to substances that damage blood cells, blood vessels, or bone marrow, often leading to anemia, bleeding tendencies, or impaired blood cell production.

Hemotoxicity can arise through several mechanisms. Some agents cause direct red blood cell destruction (hemolysis) or platelet dysfunction, while others disrupt coagulation pathways, promote consumption of clotting factors, or damage vascular endothelium, resulting in hemorrhage or coagulopathy. Many snake venoms, particularly from vipers, contain enzymes such as metalloproteinases and serine proteases that degrade tissue, alter clotting, and promote bleeding. Other hemotoxic agents include certain industrial chemicals, heavy metals, and drugs that suppress bone marrow or impair hematopoiesis.

Clinical features of hemotoxic exposure vary by mechanism but commonly include signs of anemia (pallor, fatigue), easy bruising, mucosal bleeding, epistaxis, hematochezia or melena, and laboratory abnormalities such as anemia, thrombocytopenia, or prolonged coagulation times. Diagnosis relies on history of exposure and laboratory tests, including complete blood count and coagulation studies.

Treatment is agent-specific. Hemotoxic envenomation requires prompt antivenom therapy when available, along with supportive measures. Bleeding or coagulopathy may necessitate blood product transfusions and correction of hemodynamic instability. In non-envenomation contexts, management focuses on removing exposure, treating organ-specific toxic effects, and monitoring hematologic recovery. See also hematotoxicology and cytotoxicity.