Blood Composition and Physiology

Flashcards covering essential vocabulary related to blood composition and physiology.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells (RBCs) that transport oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Leukocytes

White blood cells (WBCs) involved in defending the body against disease.

Platelets

Cytoplasmic fragments of megakaryocytes involved in clotting.

Plasma

The non-living fluid matrix of blood, consisting of water, proteins, and dissolved solutes.

Hematocrit

The proportion of blood volume that is made up of red blood cells.

Albumin

The most abundant plasma protein, responsible for maintaining osmotic pressure.

Hemoglobin (Hb)

The protein in red blood cells that binds oxygen for transport.

Diapedesis

The process by which white blood cells exit the bloodstream to reach tissues.

Granulocytes

A category of white blood cells characterized by visible cytoplasmic granules; includes neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.

Agranulocytes

A category of white blood cells without visible granules; includes lymphocytes and monocytes.

Venules

Small blood vessels that form when capillary beds unite, allowing fluids and WBCs into tissues.

Capillaries

Microscopic blood vessels that facilitate the exchange of gases, nutrients, and wastes between blood and tissues.

Tunica intima

The innermost layer of blood vessels, consisting of endothelial cells.

Tunica media

The middle layer of blood vessels, composed mainly of smooth muscle and elastic tissue.

Tunica externa

The outermost layer of blood vessels, made up of connective tissue.