Where are red blood cells made in bones?

Red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, which is a specialized tissue found within the cavities of certain bones. The bone marrow is a critical component of the hematopoietic system, responsible for the production of not only red blood cells but also white blood cells and platelets.

This process, known as hematopoiesis, occurs primarily in the red marrow, which is found in the medullary cavities of certain bones, particularly in the flat bones such as the pelvis, sternum, and skull, as well as in the ends of long bones. As the body ages, some red marrow can be replaced by yellow marrow, which is primarily composed of fat and serves as a reserve for energy.

Understanding the location of red blood cell production is essential in medical settings, particularly in cases of injury or disease that may affect blood volume and overall oxygenation in the body.