Hello, I'm a hematologist with a focus on the study of blood and its disorders. When it comes to the color of blood, it's typically associated with red due to the presence of hemoglobin in red blood cells. However, under certain conditions, blood can indeed appear brown. This can happen for a variety of reasons:


1. Oxidation: When red blood cells break down, the iron in hemoglobin can oxidize, leading to a brownish color.

2. Old Clots: Fresh blood clots are usually bright red, but as they age and the body's enzymes break them down, they can turn brown.

3. Contamination: If blood comes into contact with certain substances, it can change color. For example, if it's exposed to a chemical that reacts with the iron in hemoglobin, it might turn brown.

4. Medical Conditions: Certain diseases or conditions can cause blood to appear brown, such as methemoglobinemia, where an abnormal form of hemoglobin is produced.

5. Artifacts in Lab Tests: Sometimes, the brown coloration can be an artifact during laboratory testing, especially if the blood has been sitting for a while or if there's been some sort of contamination.

It's important to note that while brown blood is not common, it's not necessarily a cause for immediate concern unless it's accompanied by other symptoms or occurs frequently. If someone notices their blood appearing brown, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

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Blood is actually different colors of red in the body because of the iron that is in hemoglobin. When exposed to the oxygen in the air it turns bright red or even a slightly pink color. ... When blood is completely dry the oxidation process is complete and appears brown like rust.read more >>