Hematologic System Overview

This set of flashcards covers essential concepts from the hematologic system, including its components, functions, types of cells, and common disorders.

What components make up the hematologic system?

The hematologic system consists of blood (red blood cells, white blood cells, blood plasma, platelets), bone marrow, spleen, and liver.

What are the main functions of the hematologic system?

The main functions are transportation (of oxygen, carbon dioxide, wastes, nutrients, and heat), regulation (of pH, body temperature, blood pressure, and water volume), and protection (through blood clotting and antibodies).

What is the normal pH range of blood?

The normal pH range of blood is 7.35 to 7.45.

What is the primary role of red blood cells (RBCs)?

The primary role of RBCs is to carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues and transport carbon dioxide from tissues back to the lungs.

What process involves the formation of blood?

Hematopoiesis is the process of blood formation, occurring primarily in the red bone marrow in adults.

What is the life cycle of a red blood cell?

The life cycle of a red blood cell is approximately 110 to 120 days.

What triggers the production of erythropoietin (EPO)?

Erythropoietin is released from the kidneys in response to hypoxia, stimulating the production of RBCs in the bone marrow.

What distinguishes leukocytes (white blood cells) from red blood cells?

Leukocytes have a nucleus, can replicate, and are involved in immune responses, while RBCs lack a nucleus and do not replicate.

What are the two main types of leukocytes?

The two main types of leukocytes are granulocytes and agranulocytes. Granulocytes include neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils, while agranulocytes include lymphocytes and monocytes.

What is the role of platelets in hemostasis?

Platelets form plugs at sites of vascular injury and release chemicals necessary for blood clotting.

What is the significance of blood typing?

Blood typing is critical for ensuring safe blood transfusions, as it helps match donor and recipient blood types to prevent agglutination and hemolysis.

What causes iron-deficiency anemia?

Iron-deficiency anemia is primarily caused by inadequate iron intake, blood loss (e.g., from menorrhagia or gastrointestinal bleeding), and increased iron requirements.

What is pernicious anemia?

Pernicious anemia is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12 absorption due to a lack of intrinsic factor, leading to anemia and potential neurological complications.

What characterizes sickle cell anemia?

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder that causes RBCs to assume a sickle shape, leading to complications such as vaso-occlusive crises and chronic damage to organs.