Functions and Composition of Blood

Flashcards covering key concepts about the functions, composition, and processes related to blood.

Homeostasis

The ways blood helps maintain a stable internal environment in the body.

Erythropoiesis

The process of producing new red blood cells.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen and gives blood its red color.

Vascular spasm

The immediate but temporary constriction of a blood vessel.

Platelet plug formation

The accumulation of platelets that can seal small breaks in blood vessels.

Coagulation

The process of changing from liquid to solid in blood, leading to the formation of a blood clot.

ABO blood group system

A classification system for human blood based on the presence or absence of A and B antigens.

Rh blood group

A classification based on the presence of the D antigen.

Hemolytic disease of the newborn

Destruction of erythrocytes in the fetus or newborn due to antibodies from an Rh-negative mother acting on Rh-positive fetal blood.

Complete blood count

An analysis of blood that provides valuable information about overall health.

Albumins

A major plasma protein responsible for blood's osmotic pressure.

Globulins

A class of plasma proteins that protect tissues and transport iron.

Fibrinogen

A plasma protein essential for blood clotting.

Neutrophil

A type of white blood cell with a nucleus that has two to five lobes.

Eosinophil

A type of white blood cell with a nucleus that is often bilobed.

Basophil

A type of white blood cell with a nucleus that has two indistinct lobes.

Lymphocyte

A white blood cell with a round nucleus and a thin ring of cytoplasm.

Monocyte

A type of white blood cell with a round or kidney-shaped nucleus.

Platelets

Small cell fragments that play a crucial role in blood clotting.

Clot retraction

The process by which blood clots condense into a denser, compact structure.