Blood and Blood Components

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to the blood and its components, facilitating better understanding and recall for the exam.

Erythrocyte

Red blood cell that transports oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Platelet

Cell fragment important for blood clotting.

Leukocyte

White blood cell involved in protecting the body from infection.

Hematocrit

Percentage of total blood volume occupied by red blood cells.

Hematopoiesis

The production of blood cells occurring in the bone marrow.

Plasma

Liquid component of blood that contains water, proteins, electrolytes, and nutrients.

Agglutinogens

Antigens on the surface of red blood cells that determine blood types.

Oxygen-carrying proteins

Molecules in red blood cells that bind oxygen, primarily hemoglobin.

Basophil

A type of granular white blood cell that releases histamine during inflammatory responses.

White Blood Cells (WBC)

Cells of the immune system that defend the body against infections.

Antigens

Foreign substances that induce an immune response, often found on pathogens.

Phagocytosis

The process by which certain immune cells engulf and destroy pathogens.

Erythropoietin

Hormone produced by the kidneys that regulates red blood cell production.

Universal Recipient

Individuals with AB blood type who can receive blood from any donor without reaction.

Universal Donor

Individuals with O blood type that can donate blood to any recipient.

Hemoglobin

The iron-containing protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport.

Chemotaxis

The movement of white blood cells toward the site of injury or infection.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by B lymphocytes that bind to specific antigens.

Rh Factor

An antigen that may be present on the surface of red blood cells, determining positive or negative blood types.

Thrombopoietin

A hormone that stimulates the production of platelets in the bone marrow.

Heme Pigment

The iron-containing component of hemoglobin that binds oxygen.