intro to blood and pcv

BLOOD & BLOOD TESTING

THE BODY’S LIFE FLUID

  • Blood Overview:

    • Blood is described as a complex transport system, defense mechanism, and life-support network rather than just a red liquid.

    • A single drop of blood holds significant diagnostic potential, providing information on hydration, anemia, infection, and specific diseases.

  • Introduction to Blood Testing:

    • The testing methods discussed include PCV (Packed Cell Volume), TP (Total Protein), and CBC (Complete Blood Count).

QUICK QUESTION

  • Inquiry posed to the audience about their capability to determine dehydration or anemia using a microhematocrit tube.

    • Objective: By the end of the session, participants will be able to measure these conditions and understand their significance.

FUNCTION OF BLOOD

  • Major Functions of Blood:

    • Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes): Transport oxygen ( ext{O}2) and carbon dioxide ( ext{CO}2) between tissues, organs, and lungs.

    • Plasma: Carries various substances:

      • Nutrients (glucose, proteins, amino acids)

      • Electrolytes (calcium, potassium, sodium)

      • Metabolic waste products (urea, carbon dioxide)

      • Hormones to target organs.

    • White Blood Cells (Leukocytes): Combat infections and protect against infectious diseases.

    • Platelets (Thrombocytes): Involved in the blood clotting process.

BLOOD FACTS

  • Blood pH:

    • Ranges from 7.35 to 7.45, with an average of 7.41.

  • Specific Gravity of Whole Blood:

    • Approximately 1.042 to 1.060, heavier than water due to solid components.

  • Blood Volume (by Species):

    • Dogs and Cats: 7% of body weight.

    • Horses: 10% of body weight.

    • Up to 20% of an animal’s blood volume can be safely removed every 3-4 weeks.

CELLS FOUND IN BLOOD

  • Types of Blood Cells:

    • Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes)

    • White Blood Cells (Leukocytes): further classified into:

      • Neutrophils

      • Eosinophils

      • Basophils

      • Lymphocytes

      • Monocytes

    • Platelets (Thrombocytes)

PLASMA AND SERUM

  • Distinction Between Plasma and Serum:

    • Plasma:

      • Fluid portion of anti-coagulated (unclotted) or whole blood.

      • Composed of 90% water and 10% dissolved elements.

      • Contains proteins, fibrinogen, carbohydrates, vitamins, hormones, enzymes, lipids, salts, waste products, antibodies, ions, and molecules.

    • Serum:

      • The fluid left post-coagulation

      • Contains all components of plasma except fibrinogen (which is used in clot formation).

PLASMA

  • Composition of Plasma:

    • 92% water and 8% solids dissolved in water.

  • Plasma Proteins:

    • Gamma Globulins: Function in immunity.

    • Albumin: Transports nutrients and drugs; regulates fluid balance in the body.

    • Fibrinogen: Crucial for clotting.

  • Other Solids in Blood:

    • Includes sugars, hormones, ions (salts and electrolytes), fat molecules (lipids), enzymes, and cholesterol.

ICTERUS

  • Definition:

    • Yellow coloration of serum/plasma caused by excess bilirubin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown.

  • Clinical Implications:

    • Associated conditions include hemolytic anemia, liver disease, and bile duct obstruction.

    • Noted differences by species:

      • In carnivores, yellow is abnormal.

      • In herbivores, yellow may be normal due to dietary influences.

HEMOLYSIS

  • Definition:

    • Pink or red coloration of serum/plasma, indicating potential intravascular hemol