Platelets and Plasma Proteins Overview

These flashcards cover critical vocabulary and definitions related to platelets and plasma proteins as discussed in the provided lecture notes.

Platelets

Also known as thrombocytes, derived from megakaryocytes, essential for coagulation and homeostasis.

Megakaryocytes

Large bone marrow cells that produce platelets.

Peripheral Blood

The blood that flows outside the bone marrow where platelets are released.

Coagulation

The process of blood clotting.

Homeostasis

The process that maintains stable conditions in the body.

Activated Platelets

Platelets that have a sticky membrane after tissue damage, allowing them to form a plug.

Platelet Clumping

The aggregation of platelets that may alter CBC results.

CBC

Complete blood count, a test used to evaluate overall health.

Feathered Edge

The part of a blood smear where cells can be examined for clumping.

Thrombocytopenia

A condition characterized by low platelet counts.

Platelet Estimate

A calculation to determine the number of platelets in a given field.

Oil Immersion Field (OIF)

A microscopy technique used to view blood samples.

Normal Platelet Count

7-35 per OIF or 105-525 x109/L.

Plasma Proteins

Proteins found in blood plasma, mainly produced by the liver.

Total Protein

The sum of all proteins in blood plasma, including fibrinogen.

Fibrinogen

A protein that forms the matrix of blood clots, making up 3% to 6% of total plasma proteins.

Albumin

A major plasma protein responsible for maintaining osmotic pressure, accounting for 35% to 50% of total plasma proteins.

Globulins

A group of proteins in serum divided into alpha, beta, and gamma fractions.

Hypoproteinemia

A state of low protein levels in the blood.

Hydration Status

A measure of body water balance as indicated by protein levels.

Hyperproteinemia

An elevated level of total protein in the blood, often indicative of dehydration.

Hypoproteinemia

A decreased level of total protein in the blood, often indicative of overhydration.

Refractometer

An instrument used to measure the refractive index of serum or plasma.

Colloidal Osmotic Pressure

The pressure exerted by proteins in blood plasma that helps maintain blood volume.

A:G Ratio

The albumin to globulin ratio used to detect protein abnormalities.

Alpha-Globulins

One of the fractions of globulins, involved in various bodily functions.

Beta-Globulins

One of the fractions of globulins, also involved in immune functions.

Gamma-Globulins

The fraction of globulins that includes antibodies.

Total Solids

Another term for total protein in the blood.

Plasma vs. Serum Protein

Plasma includes fibrinogen; serum does not.

Neoplasia

The presence of a new and abnormal growth of tissue, which may affect globulin levels.

Acute Inflammation

A rapid response to tissue damage that may elevate fibrinogen levels.

Chronic Kidney Disease

A long-term condition that may cause changes in albumin levels.

Uncontrolled Diabetes

A condition that may lead to alterations in plasma protein levels.

Trauma

A physical injury that can result in increased protein levels in the blood.

Visual Examination

The process of examining blood samples with the naked eye for abnormalities like clumping.

Sample Collection Technique

The method used to obtain blood samples, which can affect test results.

Blood Clots

Masses of blood cells and fibrin that form to prevent excessive bleeding.

Tissue Damage

Injury or trauma to body tissues that triggers platelet activation.