Composition of Blood and Plasma Components

Study Notes

Composition of Blood

Blood constitutes about 7-8% of total body weight, primarily composed of plasma (55%) and formed elements (45%).
Plasma consists of water (90-92%), proteins, electrolytes, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

Plasma and Its Components

Major components of plasma proteins include albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen.
Albumin: Maintains oncotic pressure, transports substances like fatty acids and hormones.
Globulins: Includes antibodies (immunoglobulins) that play a crucial role in immune response.
Fibrinogen: Essential for blood clotting; converts to fibrin during the coagulation process.

RBC Structure and Function

Red Blood Cells (RBCs) are biconcave, disk-shaped cells, which increases surface area for gas exchange.
Contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds oxygen in the lungs and releases it in tissues.
Lifespan of RBCs is approximately 120 days; they are removed by the spleen and liver.

Leukocyte Types and Functions

Five main types of leukocytes: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils.
Neutrophils: First responders during infection; ingest bacteria and debris.
Lymphocytes: Key players in adaptive immunity; include T cells (kill infected cells) and B cells (produce antibodies).
Monocytes: Differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells, essential for phagocytosis and antigen presentation.
Eosinophils: Combat parasitic infections and play a role in allergic reactions.
Basophils: Release histamine, involved in inflammatory responses and allergic reactions.

Platelet Structure and Function

Platelets are small, disc-shaped cell fragments derived from megakaryocytes in the bone marrow.
Essential for hemostasis; they adhere to damaged blood vessels and aggregate to form a temporary plug.
Release chemical signals that promote further clotting and healing processes.

Functions of RBCs and Plasma Proteins

RBCs transport oxygen from lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide from tissues to lungs.
Plasma proteins play diverse roles, including maintaining osmotic balance, facilitating immune responses, and participating in clotting processes.

Pharmacy Applications of Plasma and Plasma Proteins

Plasma transfusions are crucial in treating conditions like trauma, surgery, and liver disease.
Plasma proteins used in therapies for bleeding disorders (e.g., Factor VIII for hemophilia), immune deficiency (e.g., immunoglobulins), and burn patients.
Development of clotting factor concentrates aids in managing hemophilia effectively.

Clinical Uses of Human Albumin

Hypoproteinemia Treatment

Hypoproteinemia is characterized by abnormally low protein levels in the blood, which can result from liver cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, or malnutrition.
Human albumin infusion helps to increase protein concentrations, effectively restoring osmotic pressure in the vasculature.
Treating hypoproteinemia is critical to prevent complications such as edema, ascites, or fluid overload in tissues.
The administration of albumin is particularly indicated in patients experiencing significant protein loss due to underlying health conditions.
Maintaining adequate serum albumin levels is essential for proper fluid balance and tissue perfusion within the body.

Description

This quiz covers the various components of blood, including the structure and functions of red blood cells (RBCs), leukocytes, and platelets. It also explores the roles of plasma and plasma proteins, as well as their pharmacy applications. Test your knowledge on these essential topics related to human physiology and medical science.