Blood Composition and Function

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a primary component of blood plasma?

  • Electrolytes
  • Globulin
  • Fibrinogen
  • Erythrocytes (correct)

What is the primary role of leukocytes found in the blood?

  • Aiding in blood clotting
  • Regulating electrolyte balance
  • Fighting infection and disease (correct)
  • Transporting oxygen to tissues

Where does the majority of red blood cell breakdown typically occur in the body?

  • Lungs
  • Spleen (correct)
  • Bone Marrow
  • Kidneys

What happens to iron when hemoglobin is broken down during erythrocyte recycling?

<p>It is stored as ferritin. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the direct role of iron ($Fe^{2+}$) in hemoglobin function?

<p>It binds and transports oxygen. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of white blood cell is primarily responsible for combating parasitic infections and is often elevated in allergic responses?

<p>Eosinophils (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the function of basophils?

<p>Releasing histamine during inflammation and allergic reactions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient has a chronic bacterial infection. Which type of white blood cell would you expect to see elevated in their blood count?

<p>Neutrophils (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which hormone primarily regulates erythropoiesis?

<p>Erythropoietin (EPO) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial step the body takes to prevent blood loss following a minor injury to a blood vessel?

<p>Vascular spasm (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which blood type is considered the universal donor?

<p>O- (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which blood type is considered the universal recipient?

<p>AB+ (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following sequences accurately describes the order of blood vessels from largest to smallest?

<p>Arteries, Arterioles, Capillary beds (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characteristics is typical of veins compared to arteries?

<p>Presence of valves (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which layer of the blood vessel wall is primarily composed of smooth muscle and is significantly thicker in arteries?

<p>Tunica media (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which mechanism aids in venous return by utilizing pressure changes during breathing?

<p>Respiratory pump (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of blood vessel is known as 'capacitance vessels' due to their ability to hold a large volume of blood?

<p>Veins (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After blood leaves the left ventricle, which of the following is the next major vessel it enters?

<p>Ascending Aorta (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the hepatic portal system?

<p>Delivering nutrient-rich, oxygen-poor blood from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver for processing. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key function associated with the hepatic portal system?

<p>Detoxification and nutrient storage (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true regarding the lifespan and recycling of red blood cells?

<p>Red blood cells have a lifespan of approximately 120 days and are phagocytized in the spleen and liver. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient has a condition that impairs the production of erythrocytes in the red bone marrow, which hormone is most likely to be affected in its ability to stimulate erythropoiesis?

<p>Erythropoietin (EPO) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following a cut, the body initiates hemostasis. If the initial vascular spasm is ineffective, which of the subsequent processes is directly affected?

<p>Formation of the platelet plug (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with type A+ blood requires a transfusion. Which blood type would be the MOST suitable to minimize the risk of transfusion reaction?

<p>A+ (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the structural adaptation of arteries that allows them to withstand high blood pressure compared to veins?

<p>Arteries have thicker walls with more elastic and muscular tissue. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following mechanisms primarily relies on pressure gradients created by the expansion of the thoracic cavity during breathing?

<p>Respiratory pump (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a drug impairs the function of valves in veins, what physiological effect would MOST likely be observed?

<p>Pooling of blood in the lower extremities (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the sequence of blood flow, where does blood directly proceed after exiting the aortic arch?

<p>Descending aorta (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the hepatic portal system crucial for processing blood from the digestive organs?

<p>It delivers nutrient-rich blood to the liver for processing and detoxification. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component of blood is primarily responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body?

<p>Hemoglobin within Erythrocytes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient's blood test reveals an elevated count of neutrophils, which type of infection is MOST likely present?

<p>Bacterial infection (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the sequence of blood vessels, starting from the point where blood exits the left ventricle and moving towards the hand?

<p>Left Ventricle → Ascending Aorta → Aortic Arch → Brachiocephalic Trunk → Right Subclavian Artery → Right Axillary Artery (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the breakdown of hemoglobin, what happens to the heme molecule?

<p>It is converted into bilirubin and excreted in bile. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What would be the MOST immediate effect on blood composition if the spleen were severely damaged and unable to perform its functions?

<p>An increase in the number of old and damaged red blood cells circulating in the blood (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the structure of capillaries facilitate their function in nutrient and waste exchange?

<p>They have a single layer of endothelial cells forming thin walls. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of iron ($Fe^{2+}$) in hemoglobin?

<p>To bind and transport oxygen (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In individuals experiencing chronic inflammation, which type of leukocytes would you expect to find in elevated numbers?

<p>Monocytes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function associated with the hepatic portal system?

<p>Directly oxygenating the liver tissue (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After blood passes through the popliteal artery, which blood vessel does it enter next to continue its circulation down the leg?

<p>Posterior/Anterior tibial artery (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where does hematopoiesis primarily occur?

<p>Red bone marrow (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient's red blood cells are being destroyed at an accelerated rate, which organ would likely show signs of increased activity?

<p>Spleen (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How would a reduction in the number of megakaryocytes in the bone marrow directly affect the composition of blood?

<p>Impaired blood clotting ability (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient with a long-term respiratory illness that causes chronically low blood oxygen levels, what compensatory mechanism would you expect to observe?

<p>Increased erythropoietin production (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is diagnosed with a parasitic infection. Which type of leukocyte would be expected to be elevated in a differential white blood cell count?

<p>Eosinophils (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the recycling of iron contribute to red blood cell production?

<p>It is used in the bone marrow to synthesize new hemoglobin. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which event would be triggered first in the hemostasis process after a blood vessel is cut?

<p>Vasoconstriction (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the structure of veins facilitate the return of blood to the heart against gravity?

<p>Valves prevent backflow of blood. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the tunica media being thicker in arteries compared to veins?

<p>It provides greater structural support to withstand higher blood pressure in arteries. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What would be the direct consequence of impaired function of the respiratory pump on venous return?

<p>Reduced blood flow back to the heart (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic of veins allows them to function as 'capacitance vessels'?

<p>Thin, less muscular walls (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following the left ventricle, what is the next major vessel that oxygenated blood encounters?

<p>Aorta (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How would liver dysfunction most likely affect the hepatic portal system?

<p>Impaired detoxification of absorbed substances (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the hepatic portal system?

<p>To carry nutrient-rich blood from the digestive tract to the liver (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the splenic vein is blocked, which process would be most directly compromised?

<p>Filtering and recycling of red blood cells (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What would be the effect on oxygen transport if a genetic mutation impaired the ability of iron to bind to heme?

<p>Decreased oxygen-carrying capacity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sequence accurately represents the flow of blood from the right brachial artery towards the hand?

<p>Right brachial artery → Right radial artery → Palmar arches (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following blood's passage through the popliteal artery, which vessel does it enter next to continue its journey down the leg?

<p>Anterior tibial artery (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the functional significance of the unique arrangement of the hepatic portal system?

<p>It enables the liver to process nutrients and toxins absorbed from the digestive system before they enter systemic circulation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sequence of blood vessel layers is correct, starting from the innermost layer and moving outward?

<p>Tunica intima → Tunica media → Tunica externa (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Plasma

The liquid component of blood, comprising about 55% of its volume. It contains water, proteins, electrolytes, nutrients, hormones, and wastes.

Formed Elements

The cellular components of blood, making up approximately 45% of its volume; includes red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Erythrocytes (RBCs)

Red blood cells; transport oxygen via hemoglobin.

Leukocytes (WBCs)

White blood cells; defend against infection.

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Thrombocytes (platelets)

Cell fragments responsible for blood clotting.

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Phagocytosis of RBCs

Process where RBCs are engulfed and digested in the spleen and liver.

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Neutrophils

1st responders, phagocytose bacteria, increase in bacterial infections

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Lymphocytes

T and B cells, increase in viral infections.

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Monocytes

Become macrophages, involved in chronic inflammation.

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Eosinophils

Combat parasites, involved in allergic responses.

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Basophils

Release histamine, involved in inflammation and allergic reactions.

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Hematopoiesis

Formation of blood cells.

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Erythropoiesis

Formation of red blood cells; stimulated by EPO from kidneys.

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Leukopoiesis

Formation of white blood cells; influenced by interleukins and colony-stimulating factors.

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Hemostasis

Prevention of blood loss, involving vasoconstriction, platelet plug formation, and coagulation.

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Arteries to Capillary Beds

Blood vessel order from large to small: Arteries, Arterioles, Capillary beds.

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Artery Characteristics

Thick (muscular) wall thickness, High pressure, No valves, Away from heart.

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Blood Volume in Veins

Veins contain ~60-70% of the total blood volume.

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Hepatic Portal System

Delivers nutrient-rich, oxygen-poor blood from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver for processing.

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Plasma composition

The liquid matrix of blood; contains water, proteins, electrolytes, nutrients, hormones and wastes.

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RBC lifespan

The lifespan of a red blood cell is approximately 120 days.

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Role of iron (Fe2+)

Iron binds to oxygen in hemoglobin, aiding in the transport of oxygen.

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Hemostasis process

Series of actions to stop blood loss, including vascular spasm, platelet plug formation, and coagulation.

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Blood cell formation location

Red bone marrow, primarily in the pelvis, ribs, sternum, and vertebrae.

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Blood Type O-

Universal blood donor; lacks A and B antigens

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Venules and Veins

Blood vessel order from small to large: Capillary beds, venules, Veins

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Vein Characteristics

Thin wall thickness, low pressure, yes to valves, toward heart.

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Vessel Wall Layers (Tunics)

The vessel wall layers are: tunica intima, tunica media, and tunica externa (adventitia).

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Anterior Tibial Pathway

From Left Ventricle → Dorsalis Pedis Artery.

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Posterior Tibial Pathway

From popliteal artery → Plantar Arch.

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Bilirubin

The breakdown product of heme, excreted in bile.

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Ferritin

The storage form of iron.

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Capacitance vessels

Blood vessels known for holding a large amount of blood volume.

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Respiratory pump

The muscular pump and change in pressure in the thorax that help return blood to the heart.

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Valves (in veins)

Structural adaptation that prevents the backflow of blood.

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Vascular spasm

Contraction that reduces the diameter of a blood vessel.

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Venules to Veins

Blood vessel order from small to large.

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Hepatic portal vein

Delivers nutrient-rich, oxygen-poor blood from the GI tract to the liver.

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Study Notes

Composition of Whole Blood

  • Plasma makes up 55% of blood, is a liquid matrix, and contains water, proteins (albumin, globulin, fibrinogen), electrolytes, nutrients, hormones, and wastes
  • Formed elements make up 45% of blood
  • Erythrocytes (RBCs) transport oxygen via hemoglobin
  • Leukocytes (WBCs) function to fight infection
  • Thrombocytes (platelets) aid in clotting and are fragments from megakaryocytes

Lifespan & Death of RBCs

  • Red blood cells have a lifespan of 120 days
  • Macrophages in the spleen ("RBC graveyard") and liver phagocytize RBCs
  • Hemoglobin breaks down into heme, which becomes bilirubin and is excreted in bile
  • Iron from hemoglobin is recycled and stored as ferritin

Role of Iron (Fe2+)

  • Iron binds oxygen in the heme group of hemoglobin (Hb)
  • Each hemoglobin molecule contains 4 heme groups, 4 iron atoms, and can bind 4 oxygen (Oâ‚‚) molecules

White Blood Cell Types

  • Mnemonic "Never Let Monkeys Eat Bananas"
  • Neutrophils are the 1st responders that phagocytose bacteria, increasing in bacterial infections
  • Lymphocytes, including T and B cells, increase in viral infections
  • Monocytes become macrophages and are associated with chronic inflammation
  • Eosinophils combat parasites and are involved in allergic responses
  • Basophils release histamine and are involved in inflammation and allergy

Hematopoiesis

  • Is defined as the formation of blood cells
  • Occurs in red bone marrow, especially in the pelvis, ribs, sternum, and vertebrae
  • Regulated by hormones such as erythropoietin (EPO)

Erythropoiesis vs. Leukopoiesis

  • Erythropoiesis is the formation of red blood cells, stimulated by erythropoietin (EPO) from kidneys
  • Leukopoiesis is the formation of white blood cells, influenced by interleukins and colony-stimulating factors

Hemostasis

  • Hemostasis prevents blood loss
  • Vascular spasm constricts blood vessels
  • Platelet plug formation involves adhesion and aggregation
  • Coagulation involves the formation of fibrin clots through intrinsic and extrinsic pathways

Blood Types

  • Blood types are determined by ABO antigens and the Rh factor
  • O- is the universal donor
  • AB+ is the universal recipient
  • Transfusion reactions can occur if incompatible blood is given

Blood Vessel Order (Large to Small)

  • Arteries are the largest vessels
  • Arterioles branch from arteries
  • Capillary beds are the site of exchange
  • Venules collect blood from the capillary beds
  • Veins are the largest and final vessel type

Artery vs. Vein

  • Arteries have thick (muscular) walls, while veins have thin walls
  • Arteries have high pressure, veins have low pressure
  • Arteries do not have valves, veins do
  • Blood flows away from the heart in arteries, and toward the heart in veins
  • Arteries have a pulse, and veins do not

Vessel Wall Layers (Tunics)

  • Tunica intima consists of the endothelium (inner layer)
  • Tunica media consists of smooth muscle and is thick in arteries
  • Tunica externa (adventitia) is made of connective tissue

Venous Return Mechanisms

  • Skeletal muscle pump assists in venous return
  • Respiratory pump, which creates negative pressure in the thorax during breathing
  • Valves prevent backflow

Blood Volume Distribution

  • Veins, especially systemic veins, hold about 60-70% of the total blood volume
  • Veins are known as capacitance vessels due to their capacity to hold blood

From Left Ventricle to Right Hand

  • The pathway is: Left Ventricle → Ascending Aorta → Aortic Arch → Brachiocephalic Trunk → Right Subclavian Artery → Right Axillary Artery → Right Brachial Artery → Right Radial and/or Ulnar Arteries → Palmar Arches → Hand

From Left Ventricle to Right Foot

  • The pathway is: Left Ventricle → Ascending Aorta → Aortic Arch → Descending Aorta → Thoracic Aorta → Abdominal Aorta → Right Common Iliac Artery → Right External Iliac Artery → Femoral Artery → Popliteal Artery → Posterior/Anterior Tibial Artery
  • The anterior tibial pathway continues as Anterior Tibial Pathway → Dorsalis Pedis Artery → Dorsal Arch
  • The posterior tibial pathway continues as Posterior Tibial Pathway → Plantar Arch

Hepatic Portal System

  • The function of the hepatic portal system is to deliver nutrient-rich, oxygen-poor blood from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver for processing
  • Key vessels in the hepatic portal system:
    • Hepatic portal vein
    • Splenic vein, superior mesenteric vein, inferior mesenteric vein
  • The hepatic portal system is important for detoxification, nutrient storage, and metabolic regulation

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