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Questions and Answers
What is the main function of white blood cells in the blood?
Which component makes up the majority of whole blood?
What is the primary function of albumin in the plasma?
How does the human body regulate the composition of plasma in the blood?
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Which of the following best describes the structure of erythrocytes?
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What is the primary function of erythrocytes in the blood?
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What is the main function of neutrophils in white blood cells?
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Which type of white blood cell is responsible for releasing histamines to dilate blood vessels?
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What is the role of platelets in the blood?
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Which process in hemostasis involves the formation of a clot?
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What is the main function of erythrocytes in the blood?
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Which white blood cells are responsible for direct cell-mediated killing of virus-infected cells?
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In terms of Rh factor, which blood type is most common among Americans?
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What triggers the formation of anti-Rh antibodies in Rh-negative (Rh-) individuals?
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What is the result of antibodies binding to the antigen in the blood?
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What is a common symptom of a serious transfusion reaction that can occur?
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During pregnancy, why might Rh antigens become a problem if the mother is Rh- and the baby is Rh+?
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Why are anti-Rh antibodies not produced immediately after an Rh- individual comes in contact with Rh+ blood?
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Study Notes
White Blood Cells and Blood Components
- White blood cells (leukocytes) primarily function in immune defense by attacking pathogens.
- Plasma makes up about 55% of whole blood, primarily composed of water, proteins, electrolytes, and nutrients.
- Albumin, a key protein in plasma, helps maintain osmotic pressure and transport substances like hormones and drugs.
Regulation of Blood Plasma Composition
- The body regulates plasma composition through homeostasis, utilizing organs like the kidneys and liver to filter and balance electrolytes and fluids.
Structure and Function of Blood Cells
- Erythrocytes (red blood cells) are characterized by their biconcave disc shape, enabling flexibility and increased surface area for gas exchange.
- The primary function of erythrocytes is to transport oxygen from the lungs to body tissues and return carbon dioxide to the lungs for exhalation.
Neutrophils and Histamine Release
- Neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, are crucial for phagocytizing bacteria and fungi, serving as the first line of defense during an infection.
- Basophils are responsible for releasing histamines, which dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow to areas of infection.
Role of Platelets and Hemostasis
- Platelets (thrombocytes) play a vital role in hemostasis, the process of blood clotting, by adhering to the site of a vessel injury and forming a temporary plug.
- The coagulation phase of hemostasis involves the formation of a stable clot through a series of enzymatic reactions leading to fibrin formation.
Immune Response and Blood Types
- Cytotoxic T cells are white blood cells that directly kill virus-infected cells, playing a role in cell-mediated immunity.
- Among Americans, blood type O is the most common concerning the Rh factor.
Rh Factor and Antibody Formation
- Anti-Rh antibodies form in Rh-negative individuals when exposed to Rh-positive blood, typically during pregnancy or blood transfusion.
- When antibodies bind to antigens in the blood, they can trigger agglutination or clumping, leading to potential complications.
Transfusion Reactions and Pregnancy Concerns
- A common symptom of a serious transfusion reaction includes fever, chills, and potential hemolytic anemia.
- During pregnancy, Rh antigens can cause problems if the mother is Rh-negative and the baby Rh-positive, leading to Rh incompatibility and hemolytic disease of the newborn.
- Anti-Rh antibodies are not produced immediately in Rh-negative individuals after contact with Rh-positive blood, typically requiring prior sensitization.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the functions of blood such as transporting oxygen, preventing infection, and regulating the body. Explore the composition and characteristics of whole blood, including its cellular components and plasma content.
