Blood Composition

Flashcards covering key terminology related to blood composition, types of blood cells, and related disorders.

Hematocrit

The proportion of blood volume that is occupied by red blood cells.

Erythrocyte

Red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen.

Thrombocyte

Platelets involved in blood clotting.

Leukocyte

White blood cells that protect the body from infections.

Diapedesis

The process by which leukocytes leave the capillaries to enter tissues.

Erythropoiesis

The process of red blood cell formation.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

A hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.

Granulocyte

A type of white blood cell that contains granules in its cytoplasm.

Agranulocyte

A type of white blood cell that lacks visible cytoplasmic granules.

Anemia

A condition characterized by an abnormally low oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.

Polycythemia

An excess of red blood cells in the bloodstream.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic disorder resulting in abnormal hemoglobin and sickled erythrocytes.

Buffy Coat

The layer of white blood cells and platelets that forms when blood is centrifuged.

Plasma

The liquid component of blood that carries cells, nutrients, and wastes.

Macrophage

A type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris and pathogens.

Hypoxia

A deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues.