Haemolysis evidence in plasma would most likely be observed as which change?

• A. Red/pink plasma due to damaged red blood cells
• B. Yellow plasma due to bilirubin
• C. White plasma due to platelet deficiency
• D. Clear plasma due to hydration

Answer: (A)

Haemolysis in a plasma sample shows up as red to pink discoloration because red blood cells have ruptured and released hemoglobin into the plasma. That burst releases the pigment directly into the liquid portion, giving the plasma this characteristic color. In contrast, yellow plasma points to elevated bilirubin, and a milky or white appearance comes from lipids (lipemia); clear plasma is usually just normal or well-diluted hydration with no hemoglobin in the plasma. So the red/pink tint is the clearest sign that haemolysis has occurred.