A Level Biology Practice Exam

What does ovalocytosis refer to?

1. A condition where red blood cells are more circular than usual

2. A process of white blood cell production

3. A condition where cells are more oval in shape than they usually are

4. A type of virus that affects cell shape

The correct answer is: A condition where cells are more oval in shape than they usually are

Ovalocytosis refers to a condition where red blood cells take on a more oval shape than the typical biconcave configuration. This alteration in shape is due to specific genetic factors or environmental influences, which can affect the membrane structure or cytoskeletal composition of the red blood cells. The oval shape can impact the cells' ability to function effectively in transporting oxygen and may also affect their flexibility, leading to potential issues in circulation. In the context of the other options, they describe different phenomena: changing the shape of red blood cells to a more circular form does not align with ovalocytosis, as it instead emphasizes an oval shape. A process of white blood cell production refers to hematopoiesis, which is unrelated to the specific structural changes in red blood cells. Lastly, a virus affecting cell shape is not pertinent to the definition of ovalocytosis, which is a condition primarily related to the morphology of red blood cells.