Molecular Classification
Physiological Property, Emergent Property
Other Names
Whole Blood Viscosity, Blood Thickness, Hemorheology
Disease Roles
Cardiovascular DiseasePolycythemiaAnemia

Blood Viscosity Overview

Blood viscosity is a biophysical property describing the thickness and stickiness of blood, reflecting its resistance to flow within the circulatory system. It is a critical determinant of how much friction blood exerts against vessel walls, the workload on the heart during circulation, and how efficiently oxygen is delivered to tissues and organs. Elevated blood viscosity is an independent predictor of cardiovascular events. Blood viscosity is not a direct therapeutic target, but rather an emergent property influenced by multiple factors, including hematocrit, red blood cell deformability and aggregation, and plasma protein concentration.

Mechanism of Action

Biological Functions

Regulation of Hemodynamics
Cardiovascular Function
Oxygen Delivery
Tissue Perfusion

Disease Associations

Cardiovascular Disease
Polycythemia
Anemia
Sickle Cell Disease
Dehydration
Thrombosis
Shock

Safety Considerations

  • Impaired Circulation
  • Increased Cardiovascular Risk
  • Reduced Tissue Perfusion

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
Hematocrit
Plasma Protein Concentration
Red Blood Cell Deformability
Red Blood Cell Aggregation