introduction to hematology

Question 1

hematology

Answer 1

diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the blood and blood-forming tissues

Question 2

hematologist

Answer 2

specializes in the treatment of bleeding disorders, cancers of the blood-forming tissues, and anemia as well as in interpreting blood tests and the science of blood transfusions

Question 3

plasma

Answer 3

approximately 55% of blood is a watery fluid called plasma; transports important substances such as glucose, amino acids, hormones, and electrolytes

Question 4

formed elements

Answer 4

remaining 45% of blood (not plasma), which are cells (or cell fragments) floating in the plasma; includes erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells), and platelets (formerly called thrombocytes)

Question 5

erythrocytes

Answer 5

red blood cells; contain hemoglobin (a protein that transports oxygen)

Question 6

leukocytes

Answer 6

white blood cells; provide protection against pathogens; there are five specialized types of leukocytes: neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, monocytes, lymphocytes

Question 7

platelets

Answer 7

small plate-like fragments of a larger cell; initiate hemostasis (the blood-clotting process)

Question 8

hematopoiesis

Answer 8

this process produces all of the formed elements in red bone marrow