medical terminology; chapter: 10

This set of flashcards covers important vocabulary related to the blood composition, cardiovascular system, lymphatic system, diseases, and surgical terms.

blood

Fluid circulated through the heart, arteries, capillaries, and veins; composed of plasma and formed elements.

plasma

Clear, straw-colored liquid portion of blood in which cells are suspended; approximately 90% water.

serum

Clear, watery fluid portion of blood that remains after a clot has formed.

erythrocytes

Red blood cells that carry oxygen.

leukocytes

White blood cells that combat infection and respond to inflammation.

thrombocytes

Formed elements in the blood responsible for aiding in the clotting process; also called platelets.

heart

Muscular cone-shaped organ that pumps blood throughout the body.

atrioventricular valves

Valves that lie between the atria and ventricles of the heart, ensuring blood flows in one direction.

semilunar valves

Pulmonary and aortic valves located between the right ventricle and pulmonary artery, and between the left ventricle and aorta.

pericardium

Two-layer sac surrounding the heart that facilitates movement.

apex of the heart

The pointed end of the heart, facing downwards to the left side of the body.

arteries

Blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart.

veins

Blood vessels that carry blood back to the heart.

lymph

Transparent, colorless tissue fluid containing lymphocytes that flows in a one-way direction toward the heart.

lymph nodes

Small, spherical bodies composed of lymphoid tissue that filter lymph to keep foreign substances from entering the blood.

spleen

The largest lymphatic organ, which cleanses blood of microorganisms and stores blood.

thymus gland

Primary lymphatic organ that plays a crucial role in the development of the immune system.

angioma

Tumor composed of blood vessels.

arteriosclerosis

Hardening of the arteries.

ischemia

Deficiency in blood flow, caused by constriction or obstruction of a blood vessel.

myocardial ischemia

Deficient flow of blood to the heart muscle caused by vessel constriction.

angioplasty

Surgical repair of a blood vessel.

endarterectomy

Excision of plaque from the arterial wall.