(haematopoiesis) n. the process of production of blood cells and platelets which continues throughout life, replacing aged cells (which are removed from the circulation). In healthy adults, haemopoiesis is confined to the *bone marrow, but in embryonic life and in early infancy, as well as in certain diseases, it may occur in other sites (extramedullary haemopoiesis). See also erythropoiesis; leucopoiesis; thrombopoiesis. —haemopoietic adj.... haemopoiesis
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