Blood Cells

Question 1

Haematopoiesis

Erythropoiesis

Erythrocyte homeostasis

Answer 1

formation of blood cellular components from haematopoietic stem cells. GMCSF growth factor makes sure the stem cell goes down the correct stem line

production of RBCs in the bone marrow. Cells and nucleus get smaller and smaller until nucleus is ejected.

Low oxygen = kidneys increase production of erythropoietin = stem cells increase RBC production = oxygen levels back to normal

Question 2

Fe deficiency anaemia

Megaloblastic anemia

Answer 2

 most common
 less, paler (hypochromatic), smaller (microcytic) RBCs.
 Causes = pregnancy, heavier periods, malnutrition, ulcers, malabsorption (absorb Fe 2+)

 Vitamin B12 deficiency.
 Need intrinsic factor secreted from the stomach to absorb B12, without it = pernicious anaemia.
 More, bigger (macrocytic) RBCs.
 Causes = Crohn’s disease, coelia

Question 3

Sickle cell anaemia

Extravasation

Diapedesis

Answer 3

 Hereditary, RBCs get stuck. No cure

leakage of a fluid out of its container

passage of blood cells through the intact walls of the capillaries, typically accompanying inflammation.

Question 4

WHITE BLOOD CELLS Never Let Monkeys Eat Bananas!

Neutrophils

Answer 4

 Most common, 50 – 70%
 12μm in diameter
 granulocyte
 2-5 lobed nucleus
 phagocytic, mobile
 circulate for 10 hours

Question 5

Eosinophils

Answer 5

 2-4%
 10-12μm in diameter
 granulocyte
 bi-lobed nucleus
 combat infection by releasing cytotoxic enzymes
 1-3 days survival when migrated to tissue.

Question 6

Basophils

Answer 6

 least common, >1%
 8-10μm in diameter
 bi-lobed, S-shaped nuclei
 large granules
 inflammatory response

Question 7

Monocytes

Answer 7

 2-10%
 largest WBC, up to 20μm in diameter
 large horseshoe/kidney- shaped nucleus
 agranulocyte, extensive cytoplasm
 phagocytic, “tissue macrophages”
 live for many years

Question 8

Lymphocytes

Answer 8

 2nd most common, 20-30%
 smallest, 6-15μm in diameter, vary due to function
 agranulocyte
 immunological defense, T-cells and B-cells
 can live weeks to years