Blood Cells Flashcards
Three main types of blood cells
Red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets
Primary function of red blood cells
Transport O2 and CO2
*Are biconcave
Lifespan of a typical RBC
About 4 months
Where are RBCs produced
In bone marrow
What is erythropoiesis
The making of RBCs
What hormone stimulates the RBC production
Erythropoietin
Primary function of WBCs
Fight off infections
Name five different types of WBCs
Monocytes, lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils
Role of neutrophils
First to the scene of an infection, they eat bacteria
Role of lymphocytes
Help with making specific defenses, like making antibodies
Role of monocytes
Can turn into larger cells called macrophages that eat germs and dead cells
Role of eosinophils
Fight parasites and are involved in allergies
Role of basophils
Involved in allergic reactions, releasing chemicals like histamine
Primary function of platelets
Help stop bleeding by forming clots
Difference between serum and plasma
Plasma is the liquid part of blood with clotting factors; serum is plasma without the clotting factors.
What is hematocrit?
The percentage of red blood cells in your blood.
