Medical Terminology Systems - Blood, Lymphatic, and Immune Systems

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and definitions related to the blood, lymphatic, and immune systems as introduced in the Medical Terminology Systems lectures.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells that contain hemoglobin and transport oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Leukocytes

White blood cells that provide protection and defense against infections.

Platelets (thrombocytes)

Cell fragments involved in blood clotting.

Hemostasis

The process of controlling bleeding.

Lymphatic system

Network of vessels that drain excess fluid from tissues and facilitate immune responses.

Innate immunity

Non-specific defense mechanisms present at birth.

Acquired immunity

Specific immune response developed throughout a person's life.

Antigen

Substance recognized by the immune system that elicits an immune response.

Antibody

Protein produced by B cells that protects against antigens.

Autoimmunity

Inability of the immune system to differentiate between self and non-self, leading to attack on its own cells.

Thrombocytopenia

Deficiency in the number of circulating platelets, leading to increased bleeding risk.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)

Abnormal activation of blood coagulation proteins leading to widespread clotting and bleeding.

Kaposi Sarcoma

A malignancy of connective tissue associated with HIV infection.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies attacking various tissues.

Lymphedema

Abnormal accumulation of lymph in tissues, often causing swelling.

Bone marrow transplant

Procedure to replace damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells.