Ch. 13 Disorders of Red Blood Cells

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to disorders of red blood cells for exam preparation.

Erythrocyte

A red blood cell (RBC) that contains hemoglobin and aids in the transport of oxygen.

Polycythemia

A condition characterized by an overproliferation of all blood cells in the bone marrow.

Anemia

A major pathophysiologic condition in which the body does not produce enough red blood cells, leading to insufficient oxygen delivery to tissues.

Erythropoiesis

The process of red blood cell synthesis stimulated by erythropoietin.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

A hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates red blood cell production in response to low oxygen levels.

Reticulocyte

An immature red blood cell that increases in levels in response to increased RBC synthesis.

Hyperbilirubinemia

An accumulation of bilirubin in the blood that can lead to jaundice.

Hemoglobinopathy

A disorder caused by abnormalities in the structure of hemoglobin.

Transferrin

A protein that transports iron in the blood.

Oxyhemoglobin Dissociation Curve

A graph that shows the relationship between the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) and the oxygen saturation of hemoglobin.

Agglutinogens

Specific types of antigens present on the surface of red blood cells that determine blood types.

Hypovolemic shock

A condition resulting from the loss of a significant volume of blood, leading to inadequate perfusion of tissues.

Sickle Cell Anemia (SCA)

An autosomal hemoglobinopathy that causes red blood cells to become misshapen, leading to complications and increased resistance to malaria.

Intrinsic Factor (IF)

A protein secreted by parietal cells in the stomach necessary for the absorption of Vitamin B12.

Pernicious Anemia

A type of anemia caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, leading to Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Koilonychia

A condition characterized by spoon-shaped nails often associated with iron deficiency anemia.