Blood 101 and Anemia Flashcards
What is blood?
A dynamic, life-sustaining tissue that performs transportation, protection, and homeostasis.
Where is blood made?
In the bone marrow through a process called hematopoiesis.
What are the three main functions of blood?
Transportation, protection, and homeostasis.
What does blood transport?
Oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.
How does blood protect the body?
With white blood cells, antibodies, and platelets that fight infection and form clots.
How does blood maintain homeostasis?
By regulating temperature, pH, and fluid/electrolyte balance.
What are the three visible layers of blood in a centrifuge?
Plasma (top), buffy coat (middle), red blood cells (bottom).
What is plasma made of?
90% water, proteins (albumin, fibrinogen, globulins), and electrolytes.
What is the role of the buffy coat?
Contains white blood cells and platelets for immunity and clotting.
What do red blood cells do?
Transport oxygen and carbon dioxide using hemoglobin.
What is anemia?
A condition where the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells.
What causes iron deficiency anemia?
Low dietary iron, blood loss, or poor absorption.
What causes anemia of chronic disease?
Chronic inflammation or illness affecting RBC production and iron usage.
How does kidney disease cause anemia?
By reducing erythropoietin (EPO) production, which stimulates RBC production.
What causes megaloblastic anemia?
Vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency, leading to large, immature red blood cells.
What is pernicious anemia?
A type of B12 deficiency due to lack of intrinsic factor needed for absorption.
What are the symptoms of B12 deficiency?
Fatigue, weakness, nerve problems like tingling and balance issues.
What causes folic acid deficiency?
Poor diet, alcohol misuse, medications, or digestive issues.
What is hemolytic anemia?
When red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be replaced.
What is sickle cell anemia?
A genetic disorder causing sickle-shaped RBCs that block circulation and break down easily.
What is thalassemia?
An inherited disorder causing abnormal hemoglobin production and fewer RBCs.
