The Cardiovascular System: Blood

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the cardiovascular system and blood, aiding in understanding and retention for exam preparation.

Erythrocytes

Red blood cells that transport oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Leukocytes

White blood cells involved in immune response and defense against infection.

Hemostasis

The process of sealing a ruptured blood vessel to prevent bleeding.

Hematocrit

The percentage of formed elements in whole blood.

Plasma

The liquid extracellular matrix of blood, consisting of water, proteins, and other molecules.

Antigens

Molecules on the surface of cells that trigger immune responses if recognized as foreign.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by the immune system that bind to foreign antigens to promote their destruction.

Polycythemia

An increased concentration of red blood cells in the blood, which can raise viscosity.

Anemia

A condition characterized by a low number of red blood cells or low hemoglobin, leading to decreased oxygen capacity.

Blood Typing

The determination of blood type based on the presence of specific surface antigens on red blood cells.

Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn (HDN)

A condition resulting from Rh incompatibility between mother and fetus, leading to destruction of fetal red blood cells.

Coagulation

The process of blood clotting that prevents excessive bleeding.

Reticulocyte

An immature red blood cell that indicates the rate of red blood cell production.

Chemotaxis

The movement of white blood cells toward the site of infection or injury in response to chemical signals.

Buffy Coat

The layer of white blood cells and platelets in a blood sample, less than 1% of total blood volume.

Thrombocytes

Platelets that are essential for blood clotting.

Leukopenia

A condition characterized by an abnormally low number of white blood cells.

Leukocytosis

A condition characterized by an excessive number of white blood cells, often due to infection.

Hemoglobin

A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen and carbon dioxide.