Blood Components and Functions Quiz

Blood Components and Functions

• Hemoglobin binds to oxygen, facilitating its transport in the blood.
• Erythrocytes, or red blood cells, are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues.
• Hematocrit measures the percentage of blood volume that is made up of cells, including erythrocytes and plasma.

White Blood Cells (WBCs)

• Eosinophils are a type of WBC that target and attack parasites.
• Leukocytes, or white blood cells, play a vital role in the immune response.
• Lymphocytes are WBCs that produce antibodies to fight off infections.

Blood Composition and Disorders

• Marrow is the site where new blood cells are generated, supporting ongoing blood cell production.
• The biconcave shape of red blood cells increases their surface area, enhancing oxygen transport.
• Agglutination refers to the clumping of blood cells, often resulting from an immune response to foreign agents.

Hematological Conditions

• Hemophilia, known as "bleeders disease," is a genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to make blood clots, leading to excessive bleeding.
• Sickle Cell Disease leads to the formation of abnormally shaped red blood cells, which can cause blockages and pain.
• Anemia is characterized by a low red blood cell count, resulting in weakness and fatigue.
• Leukemia is a cancer of the blood that affects blood cell production and function.

Additional Components

• Thrombus refers to an abnormal blood clot that can obstruct blood flow.
• Fibrinogen is a plasma protein that is converted to fibrin to help form blood clots.
• Serotonin can cause vasospasm, leading to constriction of blood vessels, affecting blood flow.

Historical Context

• Queen Victoria is believed to be the original carrier of hemophilia, influencing royal bloodlines across Europe.