Chapter I–III Notes: Endocrine Systems, Blood Cells, Immunity, and Blood Types

Flashcards covering the endocrine system (pituitary, hypothalamus, adrenal cortex and medulla, parathyroid), major glands, bone calcium regulation, basic blood cell types and functions, and blood typing concepts based on the provided notes.

What are the two lobes of the pituitary gland?

Anterior pituitary and posterior pituitary.

Which gland has a neural connection to the hypothalamus?

The pituitary gland.

Name the adrenal cortical zones and the hormones they produce.

Zona glomerulosa — aldosterone; Zona fasciculata — cortisol; Zona reticularis — androgens.

Which hormone increases blood pressure and blood volume by acting on the kidneys?

Aldosterone.

What dissolves bone matrix to raise blood calcium levels?

Parathyroid hormone (PTH).

Where are the adrenal glands located?

Above the kidneys; they have a capsule, cortex with four zones, and a medulla.

What are the major glands of the endocrine system?

Thyroid, adrenal, pituitary, and parathyroid glands.

What is the function of the parathyroid gland?

Regulates calcium levels in the blood (via PTH).

What is the innermost zone of the adrenal gland called and what does it secrete?

Adrenal medulla; secretes catecholamines (epinephrine and norepinephrine).

Which white blood cells are responsible for antibody production?

B cells.

Which white blood cells are involved in cellular (cell-mediated) immunity?

T cells.

What is a characteristic feature of lymphocytes?

A large, dark nucleus that often resembles a hard-boiled egg.

Which white blood cells release histamine and contribute to inflammation?

Basophils.

Which white blood cells are commonly listed in basic immune profiles (monocytes, lymphocytes, eosinophils, basophils)?

Monocytes, Lymphocytes (including T and B cells), Eosinophils, Basophils.

What do anemia and polycythemia refer to?

Anemia: too few red blood cells; Polycythemia: too many red blood cells.

What is an antigen?

Any substance that stimulates an immune response; self-antigens are those on red blood cells.

Which antigen determines Rh status?

The Rh antigen.

Who is Rh-positive versus Rh-negative?

Rh-positive individuals have the Rh antigen; Rh-negative individuals do not.

Which blood type has no A or B antigens on red blood cells?

Type O.

How is blood typing performed?

By using antibodies to detect the presence of A, B, and Rh antigens on red blood cells.