Functions and Composition of Blood

Plasma

The liquid component of blood that contains water and various dissolved compounds.

Electrolytes

Dissolved ionic compounds in plasma, including sodium, chloride, bicarbonate, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate, that help maintain the body's fluid balance and pH levels.

Albumin

The most abundant plasma protein that contributes to the osmolarity of blood and transports lipids and minerals.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells that are responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. They contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen.

Platelets

Cell fragments that play a crucial role in hemostasis, the process of stopping bleeding by forming blood clots.

Leukocytes

White blood cells that protect the body against infection and remove cellular debris.

Neutrophils

Most common type of granulocyte in blood. Uses phagocytosis to engulf and destroy pathogens.

Eosinophils

A type of granulocyte in blood that releases cytotoxic chemicals to defend against parasites.

Basophils

A type of granulocyte in blood that releases histamine to promote inflammation as part of the immune response.

Monocytes

A type of agranulocyte in blood that can transform into macrophages and participate in phagocytosis to remove pathogens and cellular debris.

Lymphocytes

A type of agranulocyte in blood that includes natural killer cells, B-cells, and T-cells.

Hematopoiesis

The process of producing the formed elements of blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, from hematopoietic stem cells.

Cytokines

Glycoproteins that stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of leukocytes, playing a crucial role in the immune response.

Thrombopoietin

A glycoprotein hormone that stimulates the development of megakaryocytes into platelets, contributing to blood clotting.

Erythropoietin

A glycoprotein hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells, ensuring an adequate supply of oxygen throughout the body.

Anemia

A condition characterized by a decrease in the oxygen-carrying ability of blood, either due to a low red blood cell count or abnormal hemoglobin.

Polycythemia

A condition characterized by an increase in the red blood cell count or hematocrit, leading to thicker blood.

Leukocytosis

An increase in the white blood cell count, usually in response to an infection or inflammation.

Vascular Spasm

The constriction of blood vessels in response to injury or damage, reducing blood flow to the affected area.

Platelet Plug

The formation of a plug composed of platelets at the site of a damaged blood vessel, helping to stop bleeding.

Coagulation

The process of blood clot formation, involving a series of complex reactions that result in the conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin, which forms a mesh-like structure to seal the damaged blood vessel.

Thrombus

A blood clot that forms within an intact blood vessel, potentially leading to blockage and restricted blood flow.

Embolism

A portion of a thrombus that breaks free and travels through the bloodstream, causing blockage and restricting blood flow to an organ.

Hemophilia

A genetic disorder characterized by a deficiency in one of the clotting factors, leading to impaired blood clotting and prolonged bleeding.

ABO Blood Group

A classification system based on the presence or absence of A and B antigens on the surface of red blood cells, determining blood compatibility for transfusions.

Rh Blood Group

A classification system based on the presence or absence of the Rh antigen on the surface of red blood cells, determining blood compatibility for transfusions.