Haematology Physiology

Question 1

Where is the site of haematopoiesis in the early embryo?

Answer 1

Yolk sac

Question 2

Where is the site of haematopoiesis in the infant?

Answer 2

Liver and bone marrow

Question 3

Where is the site of haematopoiesis in the adult?

Answer 3

Bone marrow of central skeleton

Question 4

What is the average lifespan of red blood cells?

Answer 4

120 days

Question 5

What is the average lifespan of platelets?

Answer 5

5-10 days

Question 6

What is the average lifespan of white blood cells?

Answer 6

2-5 days

Question 7

Where are the haematinics absorbed?

Answer 7

Iron - Duodenum
Folate - Jejunum
B12 - Ileum

Question 8

What co-factor is needed for the absorption of vitamin B12?

Answer 8

Intrinsic factor from the gastric parietal cells

Question 9

Prior to 12 weeks’ gestation, what is the predominant form of haemoglobin in the foetus?

Answer 9

Embryonic haemoglobin (HbE)
mainly Hb Gower 1 is the primary form

Question 10

After 12 weeks’ gestation, what is the predominant form of haemoglobin in the foetus?

Answer 10

HbF

Question 11

At what age in the neonate is adult Haemoglobin predominant?

Answer 11

6 months of age