What Are Common Toxins That Affect Red Blood Cells?
Several toxins are known to affect RBCs. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin with much higher affinity than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin and reducing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Heavy metals like lead and mercury can also interfere with RBC function and lead to hemolysis. Certain drugs and chemicals, such as sulfa drugs and naphthalene, can induce oxidative damage to RBCs.
