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an erythrocyte, or red blood cell (approx. 5um). This forces the blood cells to pass through in single file, maximising oxygen diffusion efficiency.

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Average diameter of an erythrocyte is 7.8 micrometer

Average calibre (diameter of the lumen) is 5-10 micrometer

This means that the diameter of an average erythrocyte is smaller than the calibre of the narrowest capillaries. Young erythrocytes can be deformed into any shape. The old lack such deformability, hence, their membrane rupture during their passage especially through splenic capillaries. Their lifetime is 120 days. If we are hopeless to need the old ones, then the spleen will be removed.

ahmetcorak

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