Introduction to Blood Composition and Functions
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Questions and Answers

What percentage of blood volume does plasma represent?

  • 65%
  • 45%
  • 55% (correct)
  • 75%
  • What is the primary function of red blood cells?

  • Clotting of blood
  • Defending against infections
  • Regulation of body temperature
  • Carriage of oxygen (correct)
  • Which type of blood cell is primarily involved in the immune response?

  • Platelets
  • Plasma Cells
  • Erythrocytes
  • Leukocytes (correct)
  • What is the average life span of red blood cells in circulation?

    <p>120 days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is hemoglobin primarily responsible for in the blood?

    <p>Transport of oxygen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of blood helps in the clotting process?

    <p>Platelets</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does blood play in thermoregulation?

    <p>Regulating body temperature</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a function of the blood?

    <p>Storage of toxins</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of anemia results from a lack of functioning bone marrow?

    <p>Aplastic anemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary cause of Iron deficiency anemia?

    <p>Inadequate dietary intake of iron</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which blood group is considered a universal donor?

    <p>O</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common symptom of anemia?

    <p>Headache</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor is essential for the treatment of anemia?

    <p>Treatment of the underlying cause</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of the blood is crucial for hemostasis?

    <p>Platelets</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Erythroblastosis Fetalis is primarily caused by which issue?

    <p>Rh incompatibility between mother and fetus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the normal range for platelet count in the blood?

    <p>200,000 - 500,000 / µL</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of immune response involves cells directly eliminating invaders?

    <p>Cell-mediated response</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major danger associated with blood transfusion?

    <p>Incompatibility reactions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of red blood cells?

    <p>Transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of blood represents the largest volume?

    <p>Plasma</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the shape of red blood cells?

    <p>Biconcave discs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a function of hemoglobin?

    <p>Carrying oxygen and acting as a buffer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How long is the average life span of red blood cells in circulation?

    <p>120 days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of blood cells are primarily involved in the body's defense mechanisms?

    <p>Leukocytes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which function of blood is involved in preventing blood loss during injuries?

    <p>Hemostatic function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following substances does blood transport from the gastrointestinal tract to other tissues?

    <p>Nutrients</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for renal anemia?

    <p>Insufficient production of erythropoietin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which blood group can receive blood from all other blood groups?

    <p>Blood group AB</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following symptoms is NOT associated with anemia?

    <p>Hyperactivity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the inherent risk involved in blood transfusions?

    <p>Disease transmission</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does hemostasis primarily refer to?

    <p>The prevention of blood loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of anemia is caused by dietary deficiency of iron?

    <p>Iron deficiency anemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of platelets in the blood?

    <p>Initiating blood clotting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the innate immune system primarily function?

    <p>By directly attacking invaders</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of the body's weight does blood typically represent?

    <p>8%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor can lead to megaloblastic anemia?

    <p>Deficiency of vitamin B12 or folic acid</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of blood volume do the cellular components represent?

    <p>45%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of hemoglobin in red blood cells?

    <p>Transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which function of blood helps to maintain homeostasis?

    <p>Transport of gases</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical life span of red blood cells in circulation?

    <p>120 days</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What component is primarily found in the plasma of blood?

    <p>Water</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of blood is primarily involved in the defensive function?

    <p>White blood cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What shape do red blood cells (erythrocytes) have?

    <p>Biconcave disc</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the approximate volume of blood in an average adult male?

    <p>5.5 liters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of anemia is characterized by a failure of the bone marrow to produce adequate numbers of red blood cells?

    <p>Aplastic anemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which blood group is known as the universal recipient?

    <p>AB</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary cause of hemorrhagic anemia?

    <p>Blood loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a symptom of anemia?

    <p>Pallor</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a risk associated with blood transfusion?

    <p>Transmission of disease</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do platelets play in the circulatory system?

    <p>Aid in blood clotting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of anemia is caused by the rupture of a high number of red blood cells?

    <p>Hemolytic anemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary component of blood responsible for oxygen transport?

    <p>Hemoglobin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition can arise from Rh incompatibility between a mother and fetus?

    <p>Erythroblastosis fetalis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the average normal range for white blood cell count?

    <p>4,000 - 11,000/mm3</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of blood does plasma represent?

    <p>55%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of blood is primarily responsible for transporting oxygen?

    <p>Hemoglobin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the average volume of blood in an adult female?

    <p>5 liters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does blood help regulate body temperature?

    <p>Through cutaneous blood vessels and sweat glands</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of white blood cells?

    <p>Defending against pathogens</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of blood is most abundant in terms of cell type?

    <p>Erythrocytes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which nutrient is NOT typically found in the plasma of blood?

    <p>Nitrogen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of hemoglobin in blood?

    <p>Acting as a buffer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of anemia occurs due to excessive blood loss?

    <p>Hemorrhagic anemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which blood group is known as the universal recipient?

    <p>AB</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary cause of deficiency anemia related to erythropoiesis?

    <p>Insufficient iron</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following symptoms is commonly associated with anemia?

    <p>Pallor</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most important antigenic component of the Rh system?

    <p>Agglutinogen D</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of anemia is characterized by a lack of functioning bone marrow?

    <p>Aplastic anemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a risk associated with blood transfusions?

    <p>Hemolytic reactions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factors can lead to megaloblastic anemia?

    <p>Folic acid or vitamin B12 deficiency</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key function of platelets in the blood?

    <p>Preventing blood loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a type of anemia based on its cause?

    <p>Sickle cell anemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of total body weight does blood represent?

    <p>8%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of blood cell is predominantly responsible for oxygen transport?

    <p>Erythrocytes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of plasma in the blood?

    <p>Carrying nutrients and waste products</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component represents the majority of blood volume?

    <p>Plasma</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do red blood cells play besides oxygen transport?

    <p>Transporting carbon dioxide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which function of blood is primarily for defense against pathogens?

    <p>Defensive function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the shape of red blood cells?

    <p>Biconcave discs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Hemoglobin is primarily composed of which element that enables oxygen transport?

    <p>Iron</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of anemia is characterized by excessive blood loss?

    <p>Hemorrhagic anemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which blood group is referred to as the universal recipient?

    <p>Blood group AB</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What causes hemolytic anemia?

    <p>Circulating RBC rupture</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main role of platelets in the body?

    <p>Facilitating hemostasis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition results from Rh incompatibility between mother and fetus?

    <p>Erythroblastosis Fetalis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom is commonly associated with anemia?

    <p>Pallor</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key danger of blood transfusion due to incompatibility?

    <p>Hemolytic reactions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia?

    <p>Folic acid or Vitamin B12</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one function of the immune system?

    <p>Protecting against infections</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of anemia is caused by failure of the bone marrow to produce adequate red blood cells?

    <p>Aplastic anemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Introduction to Blood

    • Blood represents 8% of body weight.
    • Average blood volume is 5 liters in women and 5.5 liters in men.

    Composition of Blood

    • Blood consists of plasma and cellular elements
      • Plasma makes up 55% of blood volume.
      • Cellular elements comprise 45% of blood volume.
    • Cellular elements include:
      • Red blood cells (RBC) also known as erythrocytes.
      • White blood cells (WBC) also known as leukocytes.
      • Platelets (thrombocytes).

    Functions of Blood

    • Maintain internal environment (homeostasis).
    • Transport function:
      • Carries oxygen from lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide from tissues to lungs.
      • Carries absorbed substances from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver and other tissues.
    • Regulation of body temperature:
      • Through cutaneous blood vessels and sweat glands.
    • Hemostatic function:
      • Blood clots to close injured vessels, preventing blood loss.
    • Defensive function:
      • White blood cells attack invading organisms.
      • Antibodies are formed against invading organisms or foreign substances (immune mechanisms).
    • Nutritive function:
      • Provides nutrients to tissues, including sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals.

    Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes)

    • Non-nucleated, flat, disc-shaped cells indented in the middle.
    • Average count is 5 million/mm3.
    • Life span in circulation is 120 days.
    • Most abundant cells in the blood.
    • Important constituents of RBCs:
      • Hemoglobin (34%).
      • Water (60%).

    Hemoglobin (Hb)

    • Red pigment that appears red when combined with oxygen and bluish when deoxygenated.
    • Functions:
      • Carries oxygen from lungs to tissues.
      • Carries carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs.
      • Acts as an important buffer in blood.

    Anemia

    • Decrease in RBC number, Hb concentration, or both.
    • Caused by too rapid loss or too slow production of RBCs.
    • Types of anemia based on cause:
      • Aplastic anemia:
        • Bone marrow aplasia (lack of functioning bone marrow) leading to insufficient RBC production.
        • Example: Excessive X-ray exposure.
      • Deficiency anemia:
        • Caused by dietary deficiency of factors necessary for erythropoiesis.
          • Iron deficiency: Insufficient iron for hemoglobin synthesis.
          • Vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency: Leads to megaloblastic anemia (maturation failure).
      • Hemolytic anemia:
        • Rupture of excessive circulating erythrocytes (excessive hemolysis).
      • Hemorrhagic anemia:
        • Excessive blood loss.
          • Acute: Bleeding from a wound.
          • Chronic: Excessive menstrual flow or bleeding piles.
      • Renal anemia:
        • Inadequate secretion of erythropoietin hormone (due to kidney disease) leading to insufficient RBC production.

    Symptoms of Anemia

    • Pallor.
    • Headache.
    • Easy fatigability.
    • Poor concentration.
    • Hypotension and increased heart rate.

    Treatment of Anemia

    • Treatment of the underlying cause.

    Blood Groups

    • Blood is classified into four major groups (types): A, B, AB, and O.
    • Blood group AB is called the universal recipient as it contains no antibodies, allowing it to receive blood from any group.
    • Blood group O is called the universal donor as it contains no antigens, allowing it to donate blood to any group.
    • Agglutination occurs between antigens of donor blood and antibodies of recipient blood.

    Rh System

    • Another important blood grouping system.
    • "D" is the most important antigenic component.
    • "Rh positive" means the individual has the D antigen.
    • 85% of the population are Rh positive.

    Erythroblastosis Fetalis (Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn)

    • Condition due to incompatibility between mother and fetus blood.
    • Occurs due to Rh incompatibility.

    Blood Transfusion

    • Transfer of blood or blood-based products into another person's circulatory system.
    • Indications:
      • Hemorrhage from severe trauma or surgery to restore blood volume.
      • Severe anemia to restore Hb level.
      • Bleeding attacks due to clotting mechanisms or platelet function disturbance.
      • Erythroblastosis fetalis.

    Dangers of Blood Transfusion

    • Immediate:
      • Incompatibility reactions (hemolytic) causing pain, jaundice, and acute renal shutdown.
      • Mechanical overloading of the circulation, especially in patients with cardiac diseases.
      • Transmission of diseases (e.g., AIDS, hepatitis).

    Platelets

    • Small, granulated, non-nucleated bodies.
    • Normal count is 300,000 / µL (mm3 ) (Range is 200,000 – 500,000).
    • Major role in natural hemostasis (spontaneous prevention of blood loss).
    • Effective in stopping bleeding from small vessels.

    White Blood Cells (Leukocytes)

    • Mobile units of the body's defense system.
    • Count ranges from 4,000 - 11,000/ mm3 with an average of 7,000/mm3.
    • Defend against foreign invasion in two ways:
      • Humoral response: Secreting molecules that eliminate the foreigner.
      • Cellular response: Engulfing or killing the foreigner (immune cells).

    Immune System

    • Protects the body against invasion by undesirable agents (microorganisms, viruses, tumor cells, parasites).
    • Divided into two parts:
      • Natural (innate or non-specific) immune system.
      • Acquired (specific) immune system.
    • Immune responses are divided into two types:
      • Humoral response: Circulating elements capable of attacking the invader.
      • Cell-mediated response: Cells directly eliminating the invaders.

    Let's Think Together

    • Dangers of blood transfusion include:
      • Incompatibility reactions.
      • Mechanical overloading of the circulation.
      • Transmission of diseases.
    • Blood represents 8% of body weight.
    • Functions of blood include:
      • Homeostasis.
      • Hemostasis.
      • Defensive function.

    Introduction to Blood

    • Blood is a vital fluid that circulates throughout the body, contained within blood vessels.
    • Blood makes up about 8% of total body weight.
    • The average volume of blood is 5 liters for women and 5.5 liters for men.
    • Blood is composed of 55% plasma (the fluid part) and 45% cellular elements.
    • The cellular elements include red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets (thrombocytes).

    Functions of Blood

    • Blood plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's internal environment (homeostasis).
    • Transport Function:
      • Carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs (respiratory function).
      • Transports nutrients absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver and other tissues (nutritive function).
    • Regulation of Body Temperature:
      • Controlled by the cutaneous blood vessels and sweat glands.
    • Hemostatic Function:
      • Blood clots to stop bleeding when a blood vessel is injured, thus preventing further blood loss.
    • Defensive Function:
      • White blood cells fight off invading organisms.
      • Antibodies are produced to combat foreign substances (immune mechanisms).
    • Nutritive Function:
      • Blood provides a reservoir of nutrients for the tissues, including free sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals.

    Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

    • Also known as erythrocytes.
    • Non-nucleated, flat, disc-shaped cells with an indentation in the middle on both sides (biconcave discs).
    • Average count: 5 million/mm3 (µL).
    • Lifespan: 120 days.
    • Most abundant cells in the blood.
    • Key component of RBCs:
      • Hemoglobin (34%)
      • Water (60%)

    Hemoglobin (Hb)

    • Red pigment that appears red when combined with oxygen and bluish when deoxygenated.
    • Functions:
      • Carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues.
      • Helps transport carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs (as carbamino compounds).
      • Acts as an important buffer in the blood.

    Anemia

    • Anemia is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of RBCs, Hb concentration, or both.
    • Causes:
      • Rapid loss of RBCs.
      • Slow production of RBCs.

    Types of Anemia Based on Cause

    • Aplastic Anemia:
      • Bone marrow aplasia, meaning the bone marrow fails to produce adequate numbers of RBCs, even with sufficient ingredients for erythropoiesis.
      • Example: Excessive X-Ray exposure.
    • Deficiency Anemia:
      • Caused by a dietary deficiency of a factor needed for erythropoiesis.
      • Iron deficiency anemia: Insufficient iron for hemoglobin synthesis.
      • Vitamin B12 or Folic acid deficiency: Leads to megaloblastic anemia (maturation failure anemia).
    • Hemolytic Anemia
      • Caused by the rupture of excessive numbers of circulating RBCs (excessive hemolysis).
    • Hemorrhagic Anemia:
      • Caused by excessive blood loss.
      • Acute: Bleeding from a wound.
      • Chronic: Heavy menstrual flow or bleeding piles.
    • Renal Anemia:
      • Inadequate secretion of erythropoietin hormone (due to kidney disease) leads to insufficient RBC production and anemia.

    Symptoms of Anemia

    • Pallor (pale skin).
    • Headache.
    • Easy fatigability.
    • Poor concentration.
    • Hypotension (low blood pressure).
    • Increased heart rate.

    Treatment of Anemia

    • Treat the underlying cause.

    Blood Groups

    • Human blood is classified into four main groups: A, B, AB, and O.
    • Blood group AB is considered the "universal recipient" because it lacks antibodies that react with donor blood antigens, allowing it to receive any blood group type.
    • Blood group O is considered the "universal donor" because it lacks antigens that react with recipient antibodies, allowing it to donate blood to any blood group type.
    • Agglutination (clumping) occurs when antigens in the donor's blood react with antibodies in the recipient's blood.

    Rh System

    • Most Important blood group system after ABO.
    • The Rh system is based on the presence or absence of the D antigen.
    • Individuals with the D antigen are considered Rh-positive.
    • Approximately 85% of the population is Rh-positive.

    Erythroblastosis Fetalis (Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn)

    • Occurs due to Rh incompatibility between mother and fetus.
    • The mother is Rh-negative and the fetus is Rh-positive.

    Blood Transfusion

    • Blood or blood components like platelets or RBCs are transferred from one individual to another.
    • Indications:
    • Severe hemorrhage (to restore blood volume).
    • Severe anemia (to restore Hb level).
    • Bleeding disorders caused by clotting factor deficiencies or platelet dysfunction (transfusion of clotting factors).
    • Erythroblastosis fetalis.

    Dangers of Blood Transfusion

    • Immediate:
    • Incompatibility (hemolytic) reactions: Pain, jaundice, and acute renal shutdown.
    • Mechanical overloading of the circulation, especially in individuals with heart disease.
    • Transmission of diseases like AIDS and hepatitis.

    Platelets

    • Small, granulated, non-nucleated bodies.
    • Normal platelet count: 300,000/µL (mm3).
    • Range: 200,000 - 500,000/µL (mm3).
    • Play a major role in natural hemostasis, stopping bleeding from small vessels.

    White Blood Cells (WBCs)

    • Mobile units of the body's defense system.
    • Number: 4,000 - 11,000/mm3, average of 7,000/mm3.
    • Protect against foreign invasion through two mechanisms:
    • Humoral response: Secretion of molecules that eliminate invaders.
    • Cellular response: Engulfing or killing invaders (immune cells).

    Immune System

    • Protects the body against invasion by harmful agents like microorganisms, viruses, tumor cells, and parasites.
    • Two main parts:
      • Natural (innate or non-specific) immune system: Present at birth.
      • Acquired (specific) immune system: Develops over time.

    Immune System Responses

    • Humoral response: Involves circulating elements that attack invaders.
    • Cell-mediated response: Involves cells directly eliminating invaders.

    Introduction to Blood

    • Blood is a vital fluid that circulates throughout the body within blood vessels.
    • It constitutes around 8% of total body weight, with an average volume of 5 liters in women and 5.5 liters in men.

    Blood Components

    • Blood consists of two main components:
      • Plasma (55% of blood volume): The fluid part of blood.
      • Cellular elements (45% of blood volume):
        • Red blood cells (RBCs) or Erythrocytes
        • White blood cells (WBCs) or Leukocytes
        • Platelets or Thrombocytes

    Blood Functions

    • Transport:
      • Carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs for expiration.
      • Transports nutrients absorbed from the digestive system to the liver and other tissues.
    • Temperature Regulation:
      • Regulates body temperature through cutaneous blood vessels and sweat glands.
    • Hemostasis:
      • Maintains blood clotting to seal injured blood vessels and prevent blood loss.
    • Defense:
      • White blood cells fight off invading organisms and foreign substances.
      • Antibodies are produced against foreign invaders, contributing to the immune system.
    • Nutrition:
      • Provides a reservoir of nutrients for the tissues, including sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals.

    Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

    • Non-nucleated, biconcave disc-shaped cells.
    • Average count is 5 million/mm3.
    • Lifespan in circulation is approximately 120 days.
    • RBCs are crucial for transporting oxygen, and their content includes:
      • Hemoglobin (34%): A red pigment essential for oxygen transport.
      • Water (60%)

    Hemoglobin (Hb)

    • A red pigment that appears red when bound to oxygen and bluish when deoxygenated.
    • Functions:
      • Carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues.
      • Facilitates carbon dioxide transport from tissues to the lungs (as carbamino compounds).
      • Acts as an important buffer in blood.

    Anemia

    • A condition characterized by a decrease in the number of RBCs, Hb concentration, or both.
    • Causes:
      • Too rapid loss of RBCs.
      • Too slow production of RBCs.
    • Anemia classifications based on cause:
      • Aplastic Anemia: Bone marrow failure to produce adequate RBCs despite sufficient ingredients for RBC production (e.g., excessive X-ray exposure).
      • Deficiency Anemia: Caused by a lack of essential factors for RBC production:
        • Iron Deficiency Anemia: Insufficient iron for hemoglobin synthesis.
        • Vitamin B12 or Folic Acid Deficiency: Causes megaloblastic anemia (maturation failure in RBC development).
      • Hemolytic Anemia: Excessively high rate of RBC destruction.
      • Hemorrhagic Anemia: Excessive blood loss:
        • Acute: e.g., bleeding from a wound.
        • Chronic: e.g., excessive menstrual bleeding or hemorrhoids.
      • Renal Anemia: Insufficient erythropoietin hormone production by the kidneys, leading to reduced RBC production.

    Symptoms of Anemia

    • Pallor (paleness).
    • Headache.
    • Easy fatigability.
    • Poor concentration.
    • Hypotension (low blood pressure) and increased heart rate.

    Anemia Treatment

    • Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause.

    Blood Groups

    • Blood is classified into four main groups: A, B, AB, and O.
    • Blood group AB is considered the "universal recipient" as it lacks antibodies that react with donor blood antigens.
    • Blood group O is considered the "universal donor" as it lacks antigens to react with recipient antibodies.
    • Agglutination (clumping) occurs when antigens from donor blood react with antibodies in the recipient's blood.

    Rh System

    • The Rh system is another important blood group system.
    • The "D" antigen is the most important component.
    • "Rh-positive" individuals possess the D antigen, while "Rh-negative" individuals do not.
    • Rh-positive blood is more common, with 85% of the population being Rh-positive.

    Erythroblastosis Fetalis (Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn)

    • Occurs due to incompatibility between the mother's and fetus's blood.
    • Typically caused by Rh incompatibility.

    Blood Transfusion

    • The process of transferring blood or blood products (e.g., platelets, RBCs) from one individual to another.
    • Indications:
      • Hemorrhage (severe blood loss) from trauma or surgery (to restore blood volume).
      • Severe anemia (to increase Hb levels).
      • Bleeding disorders (caused by clotting factor deficiencies or platelet dysfunction) (transfusion of clotting factors).
      • Erythroblastosis fetalis.

    Dangers of Blood Transfusion

    • Immediate:
      • Incompatibility (hemolytic) reactions: Pain, jaundice, acute renal failure.
      • Mechanical overloading of circulation: Especially harmful in patients with heart disease.
      • Transmission of diseases: e.g., HIV, hepatitis

    Platelets

    • Small, non-nucleated, granulated bodies involved in blood clotting.
    • Normal platelet count is 300,000/mm3 (range: 200,000-500,000).
    • Platelets play a key role in hemostasis (spontaneous prevention of blood loss), especially in stopping bleeding from small vessels.

    White Blood Cells (WBCs)

    • Mobile units of the body's defense system.
    • Count ranges from 4,000 -11,000/mm3, with an average of 7,000/mm3.
    • Defend against foreign invasion through two mechanisms:
      • Humoral response: Secretion of molecules to eliminate foreign invaders.
      • Cellular response: Direct engulfment or killing of foreign invaders by immune cells.

    Immune System

    • Protects the body against invading agents, including microbes, viruses, tumor cells, and parasites.
    • Two main components:
      • Natural (innate or non-specific) immune system: Provides initial defense.
      • Acquired (specific) immune system: Develops specific responses targeting specific invaders.
    • Immune system responses:
      • Humoral response: Involves circulating elements capable of attacking invaders.
      • Cell-mediated response: Directly eliminates invaders via immune cells.

    Introduction to Blood

    • Blood represents about 8% of total body weight and has an average volume of 5 liters in women and 5.5 liters in men
    • Blood is comprised of 55% plasma and 45% cellular elements
    • There are three types of blood cells: Red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes)

    Functions of Blood

    • Transport
      • Carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues and carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs
      • Carries substances absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver and tissues
    • Regulation of body temperature
      • Through cutaneous blood vessels and sweat glands
    • Hemostatic
      • Blood clots when a blood vessel is cut
    • Defensive
      • White blood cells attack invading organisms
      • Antibodies are formed against invading organisms or foreign substances
    • Nutritive
      • Blood provides a convenient pool of nutrients for the tissues, including free sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals in the plasma

    Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes)

    • Non-nucleated, flat, disc-shaped cells indented in the middle on both sides (biconcave discs)
    • Average of 5 million/mm3 (µL)
    • Life span of 120 days
    • Most abundant cells in the blood
    • The most important constituent of RBCs is hemoglobin (34%) followed by water (60%)

    Hemoglobin (Hb)

    • Red pigment that is naturally colored
    • Appears red when combined with O2 and bluish when deoxygenated
    • Functions of Hemoglobin:
      • Carriage of O2 from the lungs to the tissues
      • Helps in carriage of carbon dioxide from the tissue to the lungs (in the form of carbamino compounds)
      • Hb is an important buffer in blood

    Anemia

    • Decrease or deficiency of RBCs number or decrease in Hb concentration or decrease in both RBCs and Hb
    • It can be caused either by too rapid loss or too slow production of RBCs
    • Classification of Anemia:
      • Aplastic anemia: Failure of the bone marrow to produce adequate numbers of RBCs, despite availability of necessary ingredients
      • Deficiency anemia: Dietary deficiency of a factor needed for erythropoiesis
        • Iron deficiency anemia: Not enough iron available for the synthesis of hemoglobin
        • Vitamin B12 or Folic acid deficiency: Deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia
      • Hemolytic anemia: Rupture of excessive numbers of circulating erythrocytes
      • Hemorrhagic anemia: Excessive blood loss
      • Renal anemia: Inadequate secretion of erythropoietin hormone causes insufficient red blood cell production
    • Symptoms of Anemia: Pallor, Headache, Easy fatigability, Poor concentration, Hypotension and increased heart rate.
    • Treatment of anemia: Addressing the underlying cause

    Blood Groups

    • Blood of different individuals has been classified into 4 major groups: A, B, AB, and O
    • Blood group "AB" is called a universal recipient as it contains no antibodies to react with donor's blood antigens
    • Blood group "O" is called a universal donor as it contains no antigens to react with recipient’s antibodies
    • Agglutination occurs between antigen(s) of donor's blood and antibodies of recipient's blood

    Rh System

    • There are many other blood group systems
    • The Rh system is clinically important
    • "Rh-positive" means that the individual has agglutinogen D
    • 85% of the population are Rh +ve
    • Erythroblastosis Fetalis (Hemolytic disease of the New-born): Occurs due to Rh incompatibility between mother and fetus blood

    Blood Transfusion

    • Process of transferring blood or blood-based products from one person into the circulatory system of another
    • Indications:
      • Hemorrhage from severe trauma or after surgical operation
      • Severe anemia
      • Bleeding attacks due to disturbances in clotting mechanisms or platelet function
      • Erythroblastosis fetalis
    • Dangers of Blood Transfusion:
      • Immediate:
        • Incompatibility (hemolytic) reactions
        • Mechanical overloading of the circulation
        • Transmission of diseases

    Platelets

    • Small granulated non-nucleated bodies
    • Normal platelet count: 300.000 / µL (mm3) with a range of 200.000 – 500.000
    • Major role in natural hemostasis (spontaneous prevention of blood loss)

    White Blood Cells (Leukocytes)

    • Mobile units of the body's defense system
    • Average count: 7.000/mm3 with a range of 4.000 -11.000/mm3
    • Defends against foreign invasion in two ways:
      • Humoral response: Secreting molecules that can eliminate the foreigner
      • Cellular response: Engulfing or killing the foreigner

    Immune System

    • Protects the body against invasion by undesirable agents such as microscopic organisms, viruses, tumor cells and parasites
    • Two parts:
      • Natural (innate or non-specific) immune system
      • Acquired (specific) immune system
    • Responses of the immune system:
      • Humoral response: Circulating elements that can attack the invading organism
      • Cell-mediated response: Cells directly eliminate the invaders

    Introduction to Blood

    • Blood is a vital fluid found throughout the body, contained within blood vessels.
    • It makes up approximately 8% of total body weight.
    • Average blood volume is 5 liters for women and 5.5 liters for men.

    Blood Components

    • Plasma: The fluid portion of blood, making up 55% of blood volume.
    • Cellular Elements: Compose 45% of blood volume, including:
      • Red Blood Cells (RBCs): Also known as erythrocytes.
      • White Blood Cells (WBCs): Also known as leukocytes.
      • Platelets: Also known as thrombocytes.

    Functions of Blood

    • Transport:
      • Carries oxygen from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs for exhalation.
      • Transports absorbed nutrients from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver and other tissues.
    • Temperature Regulation: Maintains body temperature through cutaneous blood vessels and sweat glands.
    • Hemostasis: Forms clots to stop bleeding and prevent blood loss from the circulatory system.
    • Defense: White blood cells combat invading organisms and antibodies are formed against foreign substances.
    • Nutrition: Provides a pool of nutrients for tissues including free sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and minerals.

    Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

    • Shape: Non-nucleated, flattened, disc-shaped cells with a central indentation on both sides (biconcave discs).
    • Number: Approximately 5 million per mm3 (µL) of blood.
    • Lifespan: RBCs typically survive for 120 days in circulation.
    • Content:
      • Hemoglobin (34%): The most important constituent of RBCs, responsible for oxygen carriage.
      • Water (60%): Comprises a significant portion of RBC volume.

    Hemoglobin (Hb)

    • Color: Red when combined with oxygen, bluish when deoxygenated.
    • Functions:
      • Carries oxygen from the lungs to tissues.
      • Transports carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs.
      • Acts as a buffer in the blood.

    Anemia

    • Definition: A decrease in red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, or both.
    • Causes: Too rapid blood loss or too slow red blood cell production.
    • Classification:
      • Aplastic Anemia: Lack of functioning bone marrow, resulting in inadequate RBC production.
      • Deficiency Anemia: Caused by dietary deficiencies of factors needed for erythropoiesis:
        • Iron Deficiency Anemia: Insufficient iron for hemoglobin synthesis.
        • Vitamin B12 or Folic Acid Deficiency: Leads to megaloblastic anemia (maturation failure anemia).
      • Hemolytic Anemia: Excessive rupture of circulating red blood cells (hemolysis).
      • Hemorrhagic Anemia: Excessive blood loss, either acute (e.g., wound bleeding) or chronic (e.g., heavy menstrual bleeding).
      • Renal Anemia: Inadequate erythropoietin hormone secretion due to kidney disease, causing insufficient red blood cell production.

    Blood Groups

    • ABO System: Blood is classified into four major groups (A, B, AB, O).
      • AB Blood Group: Called the universal recipient because it lacks antibodies to react with donor blood antigens.
      • O Blood Group: Called the universal donor because it lacks antigens to react with recipient antibodies.
    • Agglutination: Reaction between antigens in donor blood and antibodies in recipient blood.
    • Rh System:
      • "D" is the most significant antigenic component in this system.
      • "Rh-positive" individuals possess the "D" agglutinogen.
      • 85% of the population is Rh-positive.

    Erythroblastosis Fetalis (Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn)

    • Occurs due to incompatibility between maternal and fetal blood, specifically Rh incompatibility.

    Blood Transfusion

    • Definition: The process of transferring blood or blood products (e.g., platelets, RBCs) from one person to another.
    • Indications:
      • Hemorrhage from trauma or surgery.
      • Severe anemia.
      • Bleeding disorders involving clotting mechanisms or platelet function.
      • Erythroblastosis fetalis.
    • Dangers:
      • Immediate:
        • Incompatibility (hemolytic) Reactions: Pain, jaundice, acute renal shutdown.
        • Mechanical Overloading: Of the circulation, particularly in individuals with heart disease.
        • Transmission of Diseases: AIDS, hepatitis.

    Platelets

    • Definition: Small, granulated, non-nucleated cell fragments.
    • Count: Normal range is 200,000 - 500,000 per mm3 (µL), with an average of 300,000.
    • Role: Essential for natural hemostasis (spontaneous prevention of blood loss), stopping bleeding from small vessels.

    White Blood Cells (WBCs)

    • Definition: Mobile units of the body's defense system.
    • Count: Average 7,000 per mm3 (µL), ranging from 4,000 to 11,000.
    • Defense Mechanisms:
      • Humoral Response: Secretion of molecules that eliminate invaders.
      • Cellular Response: Direct engulfment or killing of invaders.

    Immune System

    • Function: Protects the body from invasion by undesirable agents like microorganisms, viruses, tumor cells, and parasites.
    • Components:
      • Natural (Innate or Nonspecific) Immune System
      • Acquired (Specific) Immune System
    • Response Types:
      • Humoral Response: Involves circulating elements that attack invaders.
      • Cell-Mediated Response: Direct elimination of invaders by immune cells.

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    This quiz explores the essential components and functions of blood, including its composition of plasma and cellular elements. Learn about the vital roles blood plays in homeostasis, transportation, and defense mechanisms within the body. Ideal for students studying human anatomy and physiology.

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