Human Anatomy Blood Composition Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the main function of hemocytoblasts in the blood?

To produce formed elements in the blood (correct)

To transport nutrients throughout the body

To defend against pathogens in the bloodstream

To regulate blood clotting mechanisms

Which of the following is NOT a formed element found in blood?

Thrombocytes

Leukocytes

Plasma (correct)

Erythrocytes

Which component of blood plasma plays a crucial role in maintaining osmotic pressure?

Carbohydrates

Albumin (correct)

Globulins

Nitrogenous substances

What is the purpose of hematocrit in a blood sample?

To determine the percentage of red blood cells in total blood volume Signup and view all the answers

Which type of blood cell is responsible for the body’s immune response?

Leukocytes Signup and view all the answers

Which component of blood is responsible for transporting respiratory gases?

Erythrocytes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of plasma proteins such as albumin in the blood?

Maintaining osmotic pressure Signup and view all the answers

Which type of stem cell is considered the major stem cell for blood formation?

Hemocytoblast Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following substances is NOT typically included in blood plasma?

Aluminum Signup and view all the answers

What is the defined term for the process of producing formed elements in the blood?

Hematopoiesis Signup and view all the answers

Which formed element is primarily responsible for blood clotting?

Platelets Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the total blood volume do erythrocytes typically represent?

About 50% Signup and view all the answers

What do myeloblasts develop into during hematopoiesis?

Basophils, neutrophils, and eosinophils Signup and view all the answers

Which cells are directly derived from lymphoblasts?

Lymphocytes Signup and view all the answers

What distinct role do megakaryoblasts serve in hematopoiesis?

Generate platelets Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of hemocytoblasts in hematopoiesis?

They serve as the major stem cell for all formed elements Signup and view all the answers

What type of blood cells do erythroblasts develop into?

Red blood cells Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of red blood cells?

Transport oxygen and carbon dioxide Signup and view all the answers

Which type of white blood cell is classified as a granulocyte?

Eosinophil Signup and view all the answers

What is the structure of platelets in the blood?

Anucleate cell fragments Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about leukocytes is true?

Leukocytes are involved in the body's immune response. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes agranulocytes from granulocytes?

Agranulocytes lack cytoplasmic granules. Signup and view all the answers

What protein found in red blood cells is primarily responsible for gas transport?

Hemoglobin Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of erythrocytes allows them to change shape as needed?

Presence of spectrin Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding spherocytosis?

It is a genetic disease affecting spectrin production. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements correctly describes red blood cells?

They lack organelles to enhance gas transport efficiency. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between male and female red blood cell counts?

Males typically have a higher red blood cell count. Signup and view all the answers

What structural feature of red blood cells allows for efficient gas transport?

Biconcave shape Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the oxygen consumption of red blood cells?

RBCs do not consume the oxygen they transport Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the total red blood cell composition is made up of hemoglobin?

97% Signup and view all the answers

What advantage does the huge surface area of red blood cells provide?

Enhances the efficiency of gas exchange Signup and view all the answers

How is ATP generated in red blood cells due to their structure?

From anaerobic glycolysis Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum number of oxygen molecules that a single hemoglobin molecule can transport?

4 Signup and view all the answers

Which component of hemoglobin is responsible for oxygen binding?

Heme group Signup and view all the answers

What enhances the absorption of iron in the body?

Stomach acid Signup and view all the answers

How many iron atoms are present in one hemoglobin molecule?

4 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a way through which iron is lost from the body?

Saliva Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the heme group in hemoglobin?

To bind to oxygen molecules Signup and view all the answers

How many oxygen molecules can a single hemoglobin molecule transport?

4 Signup and view all the answers

What enhances the absorption of iron in the upper small intestine?

Stomach acid and vitamin C Signup and view all the answers

What is the composition of a hemoglobin molecule?

2 alpha chains and 2 beta chains Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a way through which iron is lost from the body?

Menstrual fluid Signup and view all the answers

What stimulates the release of erythropoietin (EPO)?

Hypoxia due to decreased RBCs Signup and view all the answers

Where is the majority of erythropoietin (EPO) produced in adults?

Kidneys Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary functions of erythropoietin (EPO)?

Increase oxygen-carrying capacity in blood Signup and view all the answers

In the fetus, which organ is primarily responsible for the release of erythropoietin (EPO)?

Liver Signup and view all the answers

Erythropoietin (EPO) is primarily stimulated by all of the following EXCEPT:

Severe dehydration Signup and view all the answers

Quale substance es essential pro erythropoiesis?

Iron, Vitamin B12, & Folic acid Signup and view all the answers

Ubi es principalmente le iron in le corpore almacenate?

Fegato, milza, e medulla ossea Signup and view all the answers

Como es le iron intracellularmente almacenate?

In complexos protenic-iron como ferritina e hemosiderina Signup and view all the answers

Qual protein es responsabile pro le transporto de iron in le sanguine?

Transferrina Signup and view all the answers

Quanta percento de iron in le corpore es funcione como hemoglobina?

65% Signup and view all the answers

Which components are essential for erythropoiesis?

Iron, Vitamin B12 & Folic acid Signup and view all the answers

Where is the majority of iron stored in the body?

Liver, Spleen, and Bone marrow Signup and view all the answers

What type of proteins are used to store intracellular iron?

Ferritin & Hemosiderin Signup and view all the answers

How is circulating iron transported in the blood?

Loosely bound to Transferrin Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of iron is found in hemoglobin?

65% Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of a deficiency in intrinsic factor?

Difficulty absorbing Vitamin B12 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following populations is most likely to require additional Vitamin B12 intake?

Strict vegetarians Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of red blood cells is primarily associated with pernicious anemia?

Large size and absence of central pallor Signup and view all the answers

What is the main treatment for a confirmed Vitamin B12 deficiency linked to pernicious anemia?

Intramuscular injection of Vitamin B12 Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does NOT contribute to Vitamin B12 deficiency?

Excessive intrinsic factor production Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary defect contributing to the characteristics of sickle cell anemia?

Single amino acid substitution in the beta chain of hemoglobin Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements accurately describes erythrocytes in thalassemias?

They are thin and delicate with deficient hemoglobin. Signup and view all the answers

How does the structure of Hemoglobin S (HbS) contribute to the sickle shape of red blood cells?

It results in crystallization under low oxygen tension. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of both thalassemias and sickle cell anemia?

Both involve abnormalities in the hemoglobin structure. Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic feature of red blood cells in low oxygen conditions due to sickle cell anemia?

They morph into a sickle shape and become inflexible. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consequence of the excess red blood cells (RBCs) associated with polycythemia vera?

Increased blood viscosity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the appearance of red blood cells in a case of polycythemia vera?

They appear very condensed to each other. Signup and view all the answers

What physiological effect does blood doping aim to achieve?

Enhance blood oxygen-carrying capacity Signup and view all the answers

How is the concept of blood viscosity related to polycythemia vera?

It increases due to a higher concentration of red blood cells. Signup and view all the answers

In terms of blood volume percentage, what effect can polycythemia vera potentially have on erythrocyte levels?

Increase erythrocytes to more than 70% of blood volume Signup and view all the answers

What distinct shape is commonly observed in the nucleus of monocytes?

U-shaped or kidney-shaped Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following functions is specific to eosinophils?

Counteracting allergic reactions Signup and view all the answers

Which type of granules are predominantly found in basophils and what is their primary role?

Red granules that release histamine Signup and view all the answers

What enzymes are contained within the granules of neutrophils?

Peroxidases and hydrolytic enzymes Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic distinguishes lymphocytes from granulocytes in terms of nucleus appearance?

Large and round structure Signup and view all the answers

What unique characteristic distinguishes eosinophils from neutrophils in their histology?

Eosinophils have red-staining granules. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following functions specifically relates to the role of basophils in the immune response?

Release histamine to act as a vasodilator. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism through which neutrophils eliminate their target pathogens?

Phagocytosis followed by degranulation. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the function of lymphocytes?

B cells differentiate into plasma cells to synthesize antibodies. Signup and view all the answers

Which feature is indicative of monocytes compared to other white blood cells?

Their nucleus appears U-shaped or kidney-shaped. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Blood as Fluid Tissue

Blood is classified as the body’s primary fluid tissue; lymph is also considered fluid tissue.

Composition of Blood

Blood consists of plasma, known as the “fluid matrix,” and formed elements.
Formed elements include erythrocytes (RBCs), leukocytes (WBCs), and thrombocytes (platelets).

Hematocrit

Hematocrit is the measurement of the percentage of RBCs in total blood volume.

Blood Plasma Components

Contains over 100 different solutes, categorized as follows:
- Proteins: Includes albumin, globulins, and clotting proteins.
- Nonprotein nitrogenous substances: Examples are lactic acid, urea, and creatinine.
- Organic nutrients: Consists of glucose, carbohydrates, amino acids, and hormones.
- Electrolytes: Includes sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and bicarbonate.
- Respiratory gases: Primarily oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Hematopoiesis

The production of formed elements occurs through hematopoiesis.
Hemocytoblasts are the major stem cells responsible for generating formed elements.

Development of Formed Elements

All formed elements are derived from a single population of stem cells:
- Erythroblasts: Precursor cells that develop into red blood cells (RBCs).
- Myeloblasts: Develop into basophils, neutrophils, and eosinophils (types of WBCs).
- Lymphoblasts: Differentiate into lymphocytes (immune cells).
- Monoblasts: Develop into monocytes (a type of WBC).
- Megakaryoblasts: Precursor cells that mature into platelets (thrombocytes).

Blood as Fluid Tissue

Blood is classified as the body’s primary fluid tissue; lymph is also considered fluid tissue.

Composition of Blood

Blood consists of plasma, known as the “fluid matrix,” and formed elements.
Formed elements include erythrocytes (RBCs), leukocytes (WBCs), and thrombocytes (platelets).

Hematocrit

Hematocrit is the measurement of the percentage of RBCs in total blood volume.

Blood Plasma Components

Contains over 100 different solutes, categorized as follows:
- Proteins: Includes albumin, globulins, and clotting proteins.
- Nonprotein nitrogenous substances: Examples are lactic acid, urea, and creatinine.
- Organic nutrients: Consists of glucose, carbohydrates, amino acids, and hormones.
- Electrolytes: Includes sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and bicarbonate.
- Respiratory gases: Primarily oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Hematopoiesis

The production of formed elements occurs through hematopoiesis.
Hemocytoblasts are the major stem cells responsible for generating formed elements.

Development of Formed Elements

All formed elements are derived from a single population of stem cells:
- Erythroblasts: Precursor cells that develop into red blood cells (RBCs).
- Myeloblasts: Develop into basophils, neutrophils, and eosinophils (types of WBCs).
- Lymphoblasts: Differentiate into lymphocytes (immune cells).
- Monoblasts: Develop into monocytes (a type of WBC).
- Megakaryoblasts: Precursor cells that mature into platelets (thrombocytes).

Hematopoiesis Overview

Hematopoiesis is the process responsible for the production of formed elements in the blood.
Formed elements include red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Major Stem Cell

Hemocytoblasts serve as the major stem cells in hematopoiesis.
These stem cells are crucial as they give rise to all types of blood cells.

Types of Blood Cell Lineages

All formed elements originate from a single population of hemocytoblasts.

Erythrocyte Development

Erythroblasts are precursor cells that develop into red blood cells (erythrocytes).

Granulocyte Development

Myeloblasts differentiate into various types of granulocytes:
- Basophils
- Neutrophils
- Eosinophils

Lymphocyte Development

Lymphoblasts are responsible for the formation of lymphocytes, which are vital for the immune response.

Monocyte Development

Monoblasts develop into monocytes, which play a role in immunity and inflammation.

Platelet Development

Megakaryoblasts are the precursor cells that mature into platelets, essential for blood clotting.

Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes)

Biconcave shape enhances surface area for gas exchange.
Anucleate, meaning they lack a nucleus and organelles, allowing for more room to carry hemoglobin.
Hemoglobin content is crucial for oxygen transport from lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide from tissues to lungs.

White Blood Cells (Leukocytes)

Two major categories: Granulocytes and Agranulocytes.

Granulocytes

Characterized by large granules in the cytoplasm.
Multi-lobed nuclei help in the identification of these cells.
Includes:
- Neutrophils: First responders to infection, play a key role in inflammation and defense against pathogens.
- Eosinophils: Primarily involved in combating parasitic infections and allergic reactions.
- Basophils: Release histamine during allergic reactions and help in inflammatory responses.

Agranulocytes

Exhibit small granules and have nuclei that are not lobed.
Includes:
- Lymphocytes: Central to the immune response, includes B cells (produce antibodies) and T cells (target infected cells).
- Monocytes: Differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells, essential for pathogen phagocytosis and antigen presentation.

Platelets (Thrombocytes)

Cell fragments derived from megakaryocytes in the bone marrow.
Essential for hemostasis; they form platelet plugs to prevent bleeding.
Release chemicals necessary for the clotting process, facilitating wound healing and repair.

Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes)

Males have a higher RBC count than females.
Structurally, RBCs are biconcave discs, maximizing surface area for gas exchange.
RBCs lack a nucleus and most organelles, allowing for more space to carry hemoglobin.

Hemoglobin (Hb)

Hemoglobin is a vital protein responsible for gas transport.
Each red blood cell contains approximately 300 million hemoglobin molecules, enabling efficient oxygen and carbon dioxide transfer.

Spectrin

Spectrin is a membrane protein that contributes to the cell shape and flexibility of erythrocytes.
It facilitates the ability of red blood cells to undergo shape changes, essential for navigating through narrow capillaries.

Spherocytosis

Spherocytosis is a genetic disorder characterized by the absence or dysfunction of spectrin.
This disorder results in the formation of spherical-shaped red blood cells, which may lead to various complications.

Structure of Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

Biconcave shape enhances flexibility and increases surface area for gas exchange.
High surface area relative to volume optimizes oxygen absorption and carbon dioxide release.

Composition of RBCs

Comprised of 97% hemoglobin when excluding water content, essential for oxygen transport.
Hemoglobin allows RBCs to carry oxygen efficiently from lungs to tissues.

Oxygen Transport

RBCs do not consume the oxygen they carry, maintaining efficient delivery to body tissues.
ATP is generated anaerobically, allowing RBCs to retain a high capacity for oxygen transport without utilizing it.

Hemoglobin Structure and Function

Hemoglobin reversibly binds with oxygen; the majority of blood oxygen is carried by hemoglobin.
Comprised of protein globin, consisting of 2 alpha and 2 beta polypeptide chains.
Each chain is linked to a heme group, which contains an iron atom.

Heme Group Characteristics

The iron atom in each heme group can bind to one molecule of oxygen, allowing hemoglobin to transport oxygen effectively.
A single hemoglobin molecule can carry up to four oxygen molecules, enhancing oxygen delivery to tissues.

Iron Absorption and Nutrition

Iron is absorbed primarily in the upper small intestine; essential for hemoglobin synthesis.
Stomach acid and vitamin C play a crucial role in increasing iron absorption rates.
Iron loss occurs through urine, feces, and menstrual fluid, necessitating a consistent dietary intake to maintain healthy levels.

Hemoglobin Structure and Function

Hemoglobin (Hb) is essential for oxygen transport, reversibly binding with oxygen in the bloodstream.
Consists of the protein globin, comprised of two alpha and two beta chains.
Each chain is associated with a heme group, integral for oxygen binding.

Heme Group Characteristics

Each heme group contains an iron atom, capable of binding to one oxygen molecule.
This allows a single hemoglobin molecule to transport up to four oxygen molecules simultaneously.

Iron Absorption and Utilization

Iron absorption primarily occurs in the upper small intestine, crucial for hemoglobin synthesis.
Stomach acid and vitamin C enhance iron absorption, making these nutrients vital for effective oxygen transport.
Iron can be lost through urine, feces, and menstrual fluid, necessitating dietary intake to maintain adequate levels.

Erythropoietin (EPO) Overview

Erythropoietin is a hormone primarily released from the kidneys, essential for red blood cell production.
In adults, approximately 10% of EPO is produced by the liver; however, in fetuses, the liver is the main source of EPO release.

Stimuli for EPO Release

EPO secretion is stimulated by:
- Hypoxia: A condition caused by a reduction in red blood cells (RBCs).
- Decreased oxygen availability: A drop in the oxygen levels in the blood.
- Increased tissue oxygen demand: Situations where tissues require more oxygen, prompting EPO release.

Functions of EPO

EPO significantly increases RBC count, enhancing blood's capacity to carry oxygen.
It improves the oxygen-carrying ability of the blood, essential for overall bodily functions and maintaining homeostasis.

Erythropoiesis Requirements

Erythropoiesis, the formation of red blood cells, necessitates proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates.
Essential nutrients for erythropoiesis include Iron, Vitamin B12, and Folic acid.

Iron Storage

Approximately 65% of the body's iron is found in hemoglobin (Hb).
Iron is also stored in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, serving as vital reservoirs for hemoglobin production.

Intracellular Iron

Intracellular iron is primarily stored in protein-iron complexes.
Major forms of storage include:
- Ferritin: A protein that stores iron and releases it in a controlled manner.
- Hemosiderin: An insoluble form of stored iron, often present in cases of iron overload.

Circulating Iron

Iron in circulation is loosely bound to a transport protein called Transferrin, which transports iron throughout the bloodstream to various tissues.

Erythropoiesis Requirements

Erythropoiesis, the formation of red blood cells, necessitates proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates.
Essential nutrients for erythropoiesis include Iron, Vitamin B12, and Folic acid.

Iron Storage

Approximately 65% of the body's iron is found in hemoglobin (Hb).
Iron is also stored in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, serving as vital reservoirs for hemoglobin production.

Intracellular Iron

Intracellular iron is primarily stored in protein-iron complexes.
Major forms of storage include:
- Ferritin: A protein that stores iron and releases it in a controlled manner.
- Hemosiderin: An insoluble form of stored iron, often present in cases of iron overload.

Circulating Iron

Iron in circulation is loosely bound to a transport protein called Transferrin, which transports iron throughout the bloodstream to various tissues.

Pernicious Anemia

Results from deficiency of Vitamin B12 and/or Folic Acid (Folate).

Deficiency of Vitamin B12

Can be caused by dietary insufficiency or parasitic infection from tapeworm (Diphyllobothrium latum).
Intrinsic Factor is crucial for Vitamin B12 absorption; lack of it leads to deficiency.
Autoimmune disease may result in the attack on parietal cells in the stomach, diminishing Intrinsic Factor production.

Dietary Sources

Vitamin B12 is found primarily in animal products, notably meats.
Strict vegetarians may need to supplement Vitamin B12 to avoid deficiency.

Treatment

Management involves intramuscular injection of Vitamin B12 to restore levels.

Blood Cell Characteristics

Red blood cells (RBCs) in pernicious anemia appear enlarged and lack central pallor, distinguishing them from normal RBCs.

Thalassemias

Characterized by either the absence or dysfunction of globin chains in hemoglobin (Hb).
Results in erythrocytes (red blood cells) that are thin, fragile, and exhibit a deficiency in hemoglobin levels.

Sickle Cell Anemia

Caused by a mutation in the gene responsible for normal hemoglobin production, producing an abnormal form known as Hemoglobin S (HbS).
The mutation involves a single amino acid substitution specifically in the beta chain of hemoglobin.
In low oxygen environments, red blood cells (RBCs) deform into a sickle shape, leading to various complications including vascular blockages and pain.

Blood Composition

Blood is a fluid tissue consisting of plasma and formed elements.
Formed elements: Erythrocytes (RBCs), Leukocytes (WBCs), and Thrombocytes (platelets).
Hematocrit is the percentage of RBCs in the total blood volume.

Blood Plasma Components

Blood plasma contains over 100 solutes, including:
- Proteins: Albumin, globulins, clotting proteins.
- Nonprotein nitrogenous substances: Lactic acid, urea, creatinine.
- Organic nutrients: Glucose, carbohydrates, amino acids, hormones.
- Electrolytes: Sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, bicarbonate.
- Respiratory gases: Oxygen and carbon dioxide.

Hematopoiesis

Hematopoiesis is the process of producing formed elements in blood.
Hemocytoblasts are the major stem cells from which all formed elements originate.
Types of stem cells:
- Erythroblasts: Develop into RBCs.
- Myeloblasts: Develop into basophils, neutrophils, eosinophils.
- Lymphoblasts: Develop into lymphocytes.
- Monoblasts: Develop into monocytes.
- Megakaryoblasts: Develop into platelets.

Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes)

Structure: Biconcave discs, anucleate, contain hemoglobin.
Function: Transport oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Each RBC contains approximately 300 million hemoglobin molecules.
Hemoglobin's structure includes a protein globin with 4 heme groups, each with one iron atom that binds to one molecule of oxygen.

White Blood Cells (Leukocytes)

Divided into two categories:
- Granulocytes: Neutrophils, Eosinophils, Basophils (multi-lobed nuclei).
- Agranulocytes: Lymphocytes and Monocytes (non-lobed nuclei).

Platelets (Thrombocytes)

Cell fragments that help form platelet plugs and release substances necessary for blood clotting.

Iron Metabolism

Iron is essential for erythropoiesis and is absorbed in the upper small intestine.
Factors enhancing absorption: Stomach acid and Vitamin C.
Iron is stored primarily in hemoglobin (65%) and also in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow, bound to proteins like ferritin and hemosiderin.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

A hormone released by kidneys (10% by liver in adults) that stimulates RBC production in response to hypoxia or low RBC counts.
Functions to increase RBC count and enhance oxygen-carrying capacity.

Anemia and Blood Disorders

Pernicious Anemia: Caused by a deficiency of Vitamin B12 due to dietary lack or autoimmune attacks on stomach cells.
Thalassemias: Result from defective globin chains, causing fragile and anemic RBCs.
Sickle Cell Anemia: Caused by a genetic mutation that alters hemoglobin structure, leading to sickle-shaped RBCs under low oxygen conditions.
Polycythemia Vera: Characterized by excessive production of RBCs, increasing blood viscosity.

Blood Doping

A method to enhance athletic performance by increasing RBC numbers, thus improving oxygen delivery to tissues.

Neutrophils

Nuclei are lavender-colored with 3-5 lobes.
Granules appear fine and lilac, containing peroxidases, hydrolytic enzymes, and defensins (antibiotic-like proteins).
Function as the body’s "Bacteria Slayers" by phagocytizing bacteria, foreign cells, viruses, and toxins.
Primarily effective against bacteria, while foreign materials and viruses are sequestered.

Eosinophils

Nuclei are red-staining with 2-3 lobes.
Granules are red (acidophilic).
Lead the body’s response against parasitic worms.
Help moderate allergic reactions by phagocytizing immune complexes.

Basophils

Nuclei are blue-staining with 3-5 lobes.
Granules are deep purple (basophilic) and may obscure the nucleus.
Contain histamine, which acts as a vasodilator and attracts other white blood cells (WBCs).
Also contain heparin, an anticoagulant that promotes WBC mobility; functionally similar to mast cells.

Lymphocytes

Nuclei are large, round, dark purple, often filling the entire cell.
Granules are nearly invisible.
Include T cells that destroy cancer cells, foreign cells, and viral-infected cells and present antigens to activate other immune cells, notably affected by HIV.
B cells synthesize plasma cells, which produce antibodies.

Monocytes

Largest type of WBCs with blue nuclei that are "U"-shaped or kidney-shaped.
Granules are nearly invisible.
Differentiate into macrophages after exiting the bloodstream, serving as phagocytic cells.
Break down antigens and present them to lymphocytes for immune recognition.

Neutrophils

Nuclei are lavender-colored with 3-5 lobes.
Granules appear fine and lilac, containing peroxidases, hydrolytic enzymes, and defensins (antibiotic-like proteins).
Function as the body’s "Bacteria Slayers" by phagocytizing bacteria, foreign cells, viruses, and toxins.
Primarily effective against bacteria, while foreign materials and viruses are sequestered.

Eosinophils

Nuclei are red-staining with 2-3 lobes.
Granules are red (acidophilic).
Lead the body’s response against parasitic worms.
Help moderate allergic reactions by phagocytizing immune complexes.

Basophils

Nuclei are blue-staining with 3-5 lobes.
Granules are deep purple (basophilic) and may obscure the nucleus.
Contain histamine, which acts as a vasodilator and attracts other white blood cells (WBCs).
Also contain heparin, an anticoagulant that promotes WBC mobility; functionally similar to mast cells.

Lymphocytes

Nuclei are large, round, dark purple, often filling the entire cell.
Granules are nearly invisible.
Include T cells that destroy cancer cells, foreign cells, and viral-infected cells and present antigens to activate other immune cells, notably affected by HIV.
B cells synthesize plasma cells, which produce antibodies.

Monocytes

Largest type of WBCs with blue nuclei that are "U"-shaped or kidney-shaped.
Granules are nearly invisible.
Differentiate into macrophages after exiting the bloodstream, serving as phagocytic cells.
Break down antigens and present them to lymphocytes for immune recognition.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the composition of blood and its various elements. This quiz covers the characteristics of blood as a fluid tissue, including the roles of erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets. Understand the importance of plasma and the hematocrit value in blood volume.