Unit 5 Erythrocytes

A series of flashcards designed to help review terms and concepts related to erythrocytes, their production, functions, and related pathologies.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs.

Erythropoiesis

The production of erythrocytes, controlled by erythropoietin produced in the kidney in response to hypoxia.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

A hormone produced in the kidney that stimulates the production of red blood cells.

Reticulocyte

An immature red blood cell that is the final stage before fully maturing into an erythrocyte.

Granulopoiesis

The production of granulocytes (a type of white blood cell).

Leukopoiesis

The production of white blood cells (leukocytes).

Thrombopoiesis

The production of platelets (thrombocytes).

Hypoxia

A deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues.

Zeta Potential

The net negative charge on the surface of red blood cells that prevents them from sticking together in circulation.

Rouleaux

A formation of red blood cells resembling a stack of coins, often seen in inflammation.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.

Normocytic

Red blood cells that are normal in size.

Hypochromic

Red blood cells that appear paler than normal due to decreased hemoglobin.

Hyperchromic

Red blood cells that appear darker than normal due to increased hemoglobin.

Poikilocytosis

Abnormal variability in the shape of red blood cells.

Spherocyte

A spherical-shaped red blood cell with decreased surface area, affecting its ability to deliver oxygen.

Schistocyte

Fragmented red blood cells often associated with physical damage or trauma.

Acanthocyte

Abnormally shaped red blood cells with irregular projections, associated with some diseases.

Echinocyte

Red blood cells with spiky projections, often due to artifacts or dehydration.

Howell-Jolly Bodies

Remnants of nuclear material in red blood cells, indicating regenerative anemia in some conditions.

Heinz Bodies

Denatured hemoglobin associated with oxidative damage, particularly in cats.

Methemoglobinemia

The presence of methemoglobin in the blood, which is unable to carry oxygen.

Anemia

A condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood.

Total Plasma Protein (TP)

The total concentration of proteins in the plasma, which can provide insights into various health conditions.