Ch19 Cardiovascular System - Blood CN

Blood

A fluid connective tissue composed of plasma, extracellular matrix, and formed elements.

Functions of Blood

Includes transportation of gases, nutrients and waste, regulation of pH and osmosis, maintenance of body temperature, protection against foreign substances, and clot formation.

Plasma

The liquid matrix of blood, making up 55% of blood volume.

Formed Elements

Cells and cell fragments that comprise 45% of blood volume.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells responsible for oxygen and carbon dioxide transport.

Leukocytes

White blood cells that function in immune response and protection against pathogens.

Thrombocytes

Platelets that are cell fragments involved in blood clotting.

Hematopoiesis

The process of blood cell production.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that binds oxygen.

Antigens

Molecules on the surface of red blood cells that determine blood type.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by the immune system that can bind to and neutralize antigens.

Erythropoietin

A hormone released by the kidneys that stimulates red blood cell production.

Coagulation

The process of blood clotting, involving several stages and clotting factors.

Vascular spasm

Immediate response of a blood vessel to injury, causing vasoconstriction.

Platelet plug

A temporary formation of platelets that helps to reduce blood loss at the site of injury.

Transfusion

The transfer of blood or blood components from one individual to another.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic blood disorder characterized by the production of abnormal hemoglobin, causing red blood cells to assume a sickle shape.

Blood Typing

The laboratory process to determine an individual's blood type based on the presence of specific antigens.

Universal Donor

Type O negative blood, which can be transfused to patients of any blood type.

Universal Recipient

Type AB positive blood, which can receive transfusions from any blood type.

Fibrin

A protein that forms a mesh in blood coagulation, leading to clot formation.

Hemostasis

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

Plasma Proteins

Proteins in plasma, including albumins, globulins, and fibrinogen, that play critical roles in maintaining osmotic pressure and immune function.

Phagocytosis

The process by which certain white blood cells engulf and digest pathogens or debris.

Anticoagulants

Substances that prevent blood clotting, often used in medical treatments.

Blood Volume

The total amount of blood circulating in the body, approximately 7% of body weight.