Chap014_Blood

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells (RBC) responsible for transporting oxygen to tissues and removing carbon dioxide.

Leukocytes

White blood cells (WBC) that are part of the immune system and help the body fight infections.

Platelets

Small cell fragments involved in blood coagulation and preventing bleeding.

Hematocrit

The ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the total volume of blood.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

Erythropoiesis

The process of producing red blood cells, primarily in the bone marrow.

Anemia

A condition characterized by a deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen transport.

Polycythemia

An increase in the number of red blood cells in the bloodstream, resulting in increased blood viscosity.

Antibody

A protein produced by the immune system that identifies and neutralizes foreign objects such as bacteria and viruses.

Coagulation Cascade

The process by which blood changes from a liquid to a gel, forming a blood clot.

Fibrinolysis

The process that prevents blood clots from growing and becoming problematic by breaking down fibrin.

Type II Hypersensitivity

An immune response that can lead to destruction of red blood cells; can occur in conditions like erythroblastosis fetalis.

Hemostasis

The process that prevents and stops bleeding, or hemorrhage.

Intrinsic Pathway

A part of the coagulation cascade triggered by damage to blood vessels.

Extrinsic Pathway

A part of the coagulation cascade activated by external trauma to blood vessels.

Sickle Cell Anemia

A genetic disorder that leads to the production of abnormal hemoglobin, causing red blood cells to become misshapen.

Jaundice

A condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, often resulting from high levels of bilirubin.

Thrombocytopenia

A condition characterized by abnormally low levels of platelets in the blood.

Plasma

The liquid component of blood that contains water, electrolytes, proteins, hormones, and waste products.

Fluids and Electrolytes

Essential components of blood that contribute to homeostasis and balance in bodily functions.