Overview of Blood and Circulatory System

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to blood and its functions in the circulatory system, as discussed in the lecture.

Circulatory System

Consists of heart, blood vessels, and blood; responsible for transporting nutrients, gases, and wastes.

Plasma

Liquid portion of blood, making up 55%, consisting of water, electrolytes, proteins, hormones, and nutrients.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells that transport oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.

Leukocytes

White blood cells that play a key role in defending the body against infections.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that binds to oxygen and facilitates its transport.

Hematocrit

The percentage of whole blood that consists of red blood cells.

Antibody

A defensive protein produced by the body to neutralize specific antigens.

Antigen

A non-self protein that triggers an immune response in the body.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions, including ion concentrations in blood.

Hemostasis

The process of stopping bleeding, involving vascular spasm, platelet plug formation, and coagulation.

Thrombocytopenia

A reduction in the number of platelets, potentially leading to excessive bleeding.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

A hormone secreted by kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells.

ABO Blood Types

Classification of human blood based on the presence of A and B antigens.

Rh Factor

An additional antigen that can be present on red blood cells, determining Rh-positive or Rh-negative blood type.

Anemia

A condition characterized by inadequate red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity.

Platelets

Cell fragments essential for blood clotting and wound repair.