Blood Flashcards

1
Q

What is hematology?

A

The study of blood and its disorders

Hematology encompasses the examination of blood cells, blood clotting, and the processes of hematopoiesis.

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2
Q

List the functions of blood.

A
  • Transportation of oxygen and nutrients
  • Regulation of body temperature
  • Protection against pathogens
  • Maintenance of pH balance
  • Clotting to prevent blood loss
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3
Q

Describe the composition and physical characteristics of whole blood.

A

Whole blood consists of plasma and formed elements, with a characteristic red color and viscosity

Plasma is the liquid component, while formed elements include red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

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4
Q

What are the normal adult blood volumes?

A

4-5 L (women), 5-6 L (men)

Blood volume varies based on body size and gender.

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5
Q

What is the normal blood pH range?

A

7.35-7.45

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6
Q

What is blood osmolarity?

A

Approximately 300 mOsm/L

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7
Q

Define hematocrit.

A

The percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells

Normal hematocrit values are around 45%.

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8
Q

What is the significance of hematocrit?

A

It indicates the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.

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9
Q

Identify the formed elements of blood.

A
  • Red blood cells (erythrocytes)
  • White blood cells (leukocytes)
  • Platelets (thrombocytes)
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10
Q

Define hematopoiesis.

A

The process of blood cell formation

In adults, hematopoiesis primarily occurs in the bone marrow.

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11
Q

What is the role of plasma in the blood?

A

To transport nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

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12
Q

List major groups of solutes dissolved in plasma.

A
  • Ions
  • Gases
  • Nutrients
  • Waste products
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13
Q

List the major types of plasma proteins.

A
  • Albumin
  • Globulins
  • Fibrinogen
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14
Q

Where are plasma proteins synthesized?

A

In the liver.

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15
Q

Identify key characteristics and function of erythrocytes.

A

Erythrocytes are biconcave, anucleate cells that transport oxygen and carbon dioxide.

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16
Q

What are normal values of RBCs in adults?

A

4.3-5.6 million RBCs/µL

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17
Q

Describe the structure of hemoglobin.

A

Hemoglobin is composed of four polypeptide chains, each with an iron-containing heme group.

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18
Q

What is the process of erythropoiesis?

A

The production of red blood cells in the bone marrow.

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19
Q

Where is erythropoietin (EPO) produced?

A

In the kidneys.

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20
Q

What stimulates EPO release?

A

Low oxygen levels (hypoxia).

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21
Q

What is the target tissue for EPO?

A

Bone marrow.

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22
Q

Explain how imbalance in erythropoiesis can lead to anemia.

A

Insufficient RBC production or excessive loss can result in low hemoglobin levels.

23
Q

Describe the breakdown and recycling of aged erythrocytes.

A

Aged RBCs are phagocytized by macrophages, with heme groups converted to bilirubin.

24
Q

What is leukocytosis?

A

An increase in white blood cell count.

25
List the five types of leukocytes.
* Neutrophils * Lymphocytes * Monocytes * Eosinophils * Basophils
26
What are the stages of hemostasis?
* Vascular spasm * Platelet plug formation * Coagulation
27
Define hemostasis.
The process of stopping bleeding.
28
What is the role of thrombopoietin (TPO)?
To stimulate the production of platelets.
29
Explain how erythrocyte disorders can affect oxygen transport.
Conditions like anemia reduce the number of RBCs, impairing oxygen delivery.
30
What is the most abundant plasma protein?
Albumin.
31
What is the function of antibodies?
To identify and neutralize pathogens.
32
What is innate immunity?
The body's nonspecific defense mechanisms.
33
What is adaptive immunity?
The body's specific immune response to pathogens.
34
Identify the key cells of the adaptive immune response.
* T-cells * B-cells * Plasma cells * Antigen-Presenting cells
35
What is the purpose of MHC proteins?
To present antigens to T-cells.
36
What are the classic signs of inflammation?
* Heat * Swelling * Pain * Redness
37
What is the lifespan of red blood cells?
120 days.
38
What is the purpose of vaccinations?
To stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight pathogens.
39
What is leukopenia?
A decrease in white blood cell count.
40
What is the function of platelets?
To aid in blood clotting.
41
What is the effect of hypoxemia?
Low oxygen levels in the blood.
42
What is the purpose of the immune system?
To protect the body from pathogens.
43
What is the difference between active and passive immunity?
Active immunity is developed through exposure to antigens; passive immunity is acquired through antibodies from another source.
44
What is the role of cytokines?
To mediate and regulate immunity and inflammation.
45
What is the significance of immunological memory?
It allows for a quicker and stronger response to previously encountered pathogens.
46
What is the normal range for white blood cells?
4500-10,000 WBCs/µL.
47
What does coagulation refer to?
The process of blood clot formation.
48
What is the role of natural killer cells?
To destroy infected or cancerous cells.
49
What is a transfusion reaction?
An immune response to transfused blood that is not compatible.
50
What are the four cardinal signs of inflammation?
* Redness * Heat * Swelling * Pain
51
What is the purpose of the lymphatic system?
To maintain fluid balance and support immune function.
52
What is the role of macrophages in the immune response?
To engulf and digest pathogens and debris.
53
Define polycythemia.
An increase in red blood cell mass.
54
What is the function of interleukins?
To facilitate communication between white blood cells.