Blood Components and Cardiac Function

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to blood components and cardiac function that are important for understanding human physiology and preparing for exams.

Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

Cellular components of blood responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that binds oxygen and carries it throughout the body.

White Blood Cells (WBCs)

Cells of the immune system that protect the body against infections.

Platelets

Small cell fragments that play an important role in blood clotting.

Thrombocytes

Another term for platelets, which are vital for hemostasis.

Phagocytes

Type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris and pathogens.

Vasoconstriction

Narrowing of blood vessels to reduce blood flow, a key step in hemostasis.

Hemostasis

The process that prevents and stops bleeding, involving vasoconstriction, platelet plug formation, and coagulation.

Coagulation

The process of blood clotting, specifically involving clotting factors and the formation of fibrin.

Myocardial Infarction

A blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle, commonly resulting in tissue death.

Coronary Vessels

Blood vessels that supply blood to the heart muscle.

Thrombus

A blood clot that forms in a vessel and remains there.

Embolism

A blockage that occurs when a clot travels through the bloodstream and lodges in a vessel.

CBC (Complete Blood Count)

A common blood test that provides information about the cells in a person's blood.

Eosinophils

A type of white blood cell involved in the response to allergens and parasites, elevated levels may indicate asthma.

Pericardium

The double-walled sac containing the heart and the roots of the great vessels.

Endocardium

The innermost layer of tissue that lines the chambers of the heart.

Epicardium

The outer layer of the heart, also known as the visceral pericardium.

Myocardium

The middle muscular layer of the heart wall responsible for contraction.

Cardiac Tamponade

A serious condition where fluid accumulates in the pericardial space, restricting heart function.

Beck's Triad

A clinical syndrome of cardiac tamponade characterized by hypotension, distended neck veins, and muffled heart sounds.

Pulmonary Circuit

Pathway of blood flow from the right side of the heart to the lungs and back to the left side of the heart.

Systemic Circuit

Pathway of blood flow from the left side of the heart to the rest of the body and back to the right side of the heart.

Tricuspid Valve

The valve located between the right atrium and right ventricle, preventing backflow of blood.

Bicuspid (Mitral) Valve

The valve between the left atrium and left ventricle, also known as the mitral valve.

Aortic Valve

The semilunar valve that opens from the left ventricle into the aorta.