Other Formed Elements & Blood-Related Diseases Flashcards
(22 cards)
What system are white blood cells involved in?
The immune system
List the 5 types of leukocytes and briefly describe the main function of each. (5)
- Neutrophils → phagocytosis of BACTERIA
- Lymphocytes → identifies and fights foreign substances by producing antibodies (immunity)
- Monocytes → cleans up debris and phagocytosis of tissues
- Eosinophils → destroys PARASITES and plays a major role in allergic reactions
- Basophils → responsible for allergy symptoms (releases histamine and heparin)
What types of leukocytes make up 90% of all leukocytes normally present in the human body? (2)
- Neutrophils
- Lymphocytes
(no particular order)
Give the common name for “thrombocytes” and briefly describe their main role. (2)
- Thrombocytes = platelets
2. Blood clotting
Where are blood gases dissolved in the blood?
The liquid portion (plasma)
List the 2 types of blood gases and the professionals who take samples of them. (2)
- Venous blood gases (VBG) → taken by a phlebotomist
2. Arterial blood gases (ABG) → taken by a respiratory therapist
What is hemostasis?
The process in which the body stops blood from bleeding out → formation of blood clot to prevent excessive blood loss
Name the 3 main phases of hemostasis and briefly describe each. (3)
- Vascular spasms occur → vasoconstriction
- Platelet plug forms → platelets become sticky and cling to damaged site when underlying collagen fibers of the blood vessels are exposed → platelets release chemicals to enhance spasms and attract more platelets
- Coagulation events → tissue factor + platelet factor 3 + clotting factors and calcium = thrombin → thrombin + fibrinogen = fibrin forms a meshwork which traps RBCs and forms the basis of the clot
Define: anemia
Conditions resulting from a decreased number of blood cells in a healthy state
Define: sickle cell anemia
Disease in which hemoglobin is sickle-shaped and sticky, rather than bioconcave disc shaped like healthy erythrocytes
What are 3 consequences of sickle cells? (3)
- RBCs easily rupture and dam up small blood vessels
- Interfere with oxygen delivery
- Increases the risk of strokes due to clots
What is it called when a person carries but does not exhibit sickle cell anemia?
Sickle cell trait
Define: polycythemia
Excessive or abnormal increase in the number of erythrocytes
What would make polycythemia “normal” in humans?
If it is a homeostatic response for those living at high altitudes where the air is thinner and less oxygen is available
What are two risks of polycythemia? (2)
- Increased risk of the formation of bone marrow cancer
2. Increased blood viscocity → sluggish blood flow and circulation
Define: hemophilia
Hereditary bleeding disorders that result from a lack of any of the factors needed for clotting
How does hemophilia affect tissue trauma?
Even minor tissue trauma results in prolonged bleeding, which may be life-threatening
What are hemophiliacs lacking clotting factors given to prevent and replenish after bleeding episodes?
Transfusion of fresh plasma or injections of the purified clotting factor they lack
Why are clotting factors decreased when the liver is unhealthy?
The liver is unable to synthesize its usual supply of clotting factors without proper health and maintenance
Define: thrombocytopenia
Disease in which the person has an insufficient number of platelets circulating in the blood
List 3 potential causes of thrombocytopenia. (3)
- Bone marrow cancer
- Radiation
- Certain drugs
What are the visible results of thrombocytopenia? (2)
- Normal movements may cause spontaneous bleeding from small blood vessels
- Petechiae → small, purplish blotches resembling rashes in the skin