Ch13 Vocabulary (Chabner Language of Medicine 13e)

albumin

Protein in the blood; maintains the proper amount of water in blood

antibody (Ab)

A specific protein produced by the lymphocytes in response to bacteria, viruses, or other antigens

antigen

A substance that stimulates production of an antibody

erythropoietin

Hormone secreted by the kidneys that stimulates red blood cell formation

fibrin

Protein that form the basis of a blood clot

hematopoietic stem cell

A cell in bone marrow that gives rise to all types of blood cells

hemoglobin

Blood protein containing iron; carries oxygen in red blood cells

hemolysis

Breakdown of red blood cells

heparin

An anticoagulant found in blood and tissue cells

immunoglobulin

A protein with antibody activity

plasma

Liquid portion of blood; contains water, proteins, salts, nutrients, lipids, hormones, and vitamins

platelet

A small blood fragment important in clotting

Rh factor

Antigen on red blood cells of Rh^-positive (RH⁺) individuals

stem cell

Unspecialized cell that gives rise to mature, specialized forms