ANA 110

Erythrocytes (RBCs)

Transport oxygen

Leukocytes (WBCs)

True cells with a nucleus and organelles that provide immune defense.

Platelets (Thrombocytes)

Cell fragments from megakaryocytes that are essential for clotting.

Plasma

~92% water, ~7% proteins, ~1% solutes.

Albumin

Most abundant plasma protein; maintains osmotic pressure and transports lipids/hormones.

Globulins

Proteins in plasma including alpha & beta (transport) and gamma (antibodies).

Fibrinogen

Clotting factor in plasma.

Hematocrit

Percentage of blood volume made up of RBCs.

Polycythemia

Elevated RBC count, can lead to increased blood viscosity and higher blood pressure.

Anemia

A disorder characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin.

Iron deficiency anemia

Microcytic, hypochromic RBCs resulting from lack of iron.

Pernicious anemia

Macrocytic, normochromic RBCs due to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Hemolytic anemia

RBC rupture occurring prematurely.

Aplastic anemia

Stem cell deficiency leading to low RBC production.

Biliverdin

Green breakdown product of heme; indicative of bruising.

Bilirubin

Yellow breakdown product of heme that can accumulate and cause jaundice.

Oxyhemoglobin

Bright red form of hemoglobin bound to oxygen.

Deoxyhemoglobin

Darker red form of hemoglobin with oxygen released.

Carbaminohemoglobin

Form of hemoglobin bound to carbon dioxide.

Erythropoietin

Hormone produced by kidneys in response to low oxygen levels.