Function and Composition of Blood

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the function, composition, and processes of blood and the lymphatic system.

Erythropoiesis

The process of producing red blood cells from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow.

Thrombopoiesis

The process of producing platelets from megakaryoblasts.

Anemia

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

Hemostasis

The process that prevents and stops bleeding, involving vascular spasm, platelet plug formation, coagulation, clot reaction, and thrombolysis.

Hematopoietic Stem Cells

Undifferentiated cells in the bone marrow that can become any type of blood cell.

Plasma

The liquid extracellular matrix of blood, making up about 55% of its volume, containing proteins like albumin and antibodies.

Lymphatic System

A system that assists in fluid circulation, fat absorption, and pathogen defense.

Innate Immunity

The body's nonspecific defense mechanisms that do not require previous exposure to a pathogen.

Adaptive Immunity

A specific immune response that develops a memory for specific antigens involving T and B cells.

Megakaryoblast

A precursor cell from which platelets are derived.