The Blood Flashcards
What is the blood made up of?
Plasma
Leukocytes + platelets (>1%)
Erythrocytes (45%)
What is an antibody?
A protein produced by WBC that attach to antigens, and marks the cell for it to be destroyed.
What is an antigen?
A protein found within cell surface membrane and checks cell identity.
Different types of antigens…
A antigens, B antigens, A and B antigens, NO antigens.
Why can’t Anti-A antibodies attach to A antigens?
The cell will destroy itself (same with Anti-B antibodies and B antigens)
What is agglutination?
When blood clumps together, because incompatible blood contains antigens that will react with a patient’s antibodies.
What can agglutination cause?
Systemic organ failure, blood clots, death.
Which blood types are the Rhesus factor seen (Rh)?
O+, A+, B+, AB+ (ONLY positive blood groups).
Which blood type is an universal DONOR?
O- (have no antigens on their surface).
Which blood type is an universal RECEIVER?
AB+.
How can a Rhesus factor antigen affect a fetus’ blood type?
Mother’s Rh antigens can attack fetus, and RBC are damaged (only happens if mother has more than one child, ad they have different blood types).
