Which term is synonymous with an abnormally reduced number of red blood cells?

Erythrocytopenia is the correct term that describes an abnormally reduced number of red blood cells. The prefix "erythro-" refers to red blood cells (erythrocytes), and the suffix "-penia" indicates a deficiency or reduction in number. Together, they specifically denote a condition where the quantity of red blood cells is lower than normal, which can lead to anemia and related symptoms.

Other terms do not share this specific meaning. For instance, hemolysis refers to the destruction of red blood cells, which may result in anemia but does not specifically denote a reduction in their overall number. Macrocytosis relates to red blood cells that are larger than normal, indicating an issue with the size rather than the quantity. Bacteremia refers to the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream, which is unrelated to red blood cell count and concerns an infectious process rather than a hematological one. Thus, erythrocytopenia is the most accurate term representing a reduced number of red blood cells.