Ch18_Blood

Hematology

The study of blood.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells (RBCs) involved in gas transport.

Hematology

The study of blood.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells (RBCs) involved in gas transport.

Leukocytes

White blood cells (WBCs) that protect against infection and diseases.

Hematocrit

Total volume of whole blood composed of red blood cells, typically 37% to 52%.

Hyperviscosity

Increased blood viscosity leading to potential health risks.

Erythropoiesis

The production of red blood cells.

Thrombocytes

Platelets, which are cell fragments involved in blood clotting.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Osmolarity

The concentration of solutes in blood plasma.

Blood Plasma

Liquid portion of blood that is mostly water and contains proteins, nutrients, hormones, and wastes.

Polycythemia

RBC excess due to various causes, including cancer and dehydration.

Anemia

Deficiency of either red blood cells or hemoglobin.

Clotting Factors

Proteins in the blood that are essential for blood coagulation.

Centrifugation

A process that separates components of blood based on density.

Diapedesis

The movement of leukocytes out of blood vessels to target tissues.

Agglutination

The clumping of red blood cells due to the binding of antibodies to antigens.

Antigens

Complex molecules on the surface of cells that trigger immune responses.

Fibrinogen

A plasma protein that is converted into fibrin during blood clotting.

Vasoconstriction

The narrowing of blood vessels to reduce blood flow.

Hemostasis

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