Membrane alterations in hemolysis: Internalization of plasmalemma induced by primaquine.

Incubation of normal human erythrocytes with primaquine, a derivative of 8-aminoquinoline, results in internalization of the cell membrane and the formation of intracellular vacuoles. These changes are similar to those observed in other types of cells in pinocytosis. The reduction in surface cell membrane which accompanies internalization of plasmalemma may be generally significant in the destruction of red cells.