PBL Block 2 Flashcards
(23 cards)
What are the main functions of blood?
Blood functions include:
* Transportation of oxygen and nutrients
* Regulation of body temperature
* Protection against pathogens
* Clotting to prevent blood loss
Blood plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis and supporting various physiological processes.
List the principal physical characteristics of blood.
Physical characteristics of blood include:
* Viscosity
* Color (red due to hemoglobin)
* pH (approximately 7.4)
* Temperature (slightly higher than body temperature)
These characteristics are essential for its functions in circulation and homeostasis.
What is hematopoiesis?
Hematopoiesis is the process of blood cell formation.
It primarily occurs in the bone marrow.
What are pluripotent stem cells?
Pluripotent stem cells are undifferentiated cells capable of giving rise to all types of blood cells.
They are the source of all hematopoietic lineages.
What are progenitor cells?
Progenitor cells are partially differentiated cells that arise from pluripotent stem cells and can develop into specific blood cell types.
They are crucial for the production of various blood lineages.
Describe precursor cells or blast cells.
Precursor cells or blast cells are early-stage cells in the development of blood cells, which further differentiate into mature blood cells.
They indicate the stage of development in the hematopoietic process.
What is the structure of red blood cells?
Red blood cells (RBCs) have a biconcave disc shape, lack a nucleus, and contain hemoglobin.
This structure enhances their ability to transport oxygen.
What are the functions of red blood cells?
Functions of red blood cells include:
* Transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues
* Carrying carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs
Their primary role is vital for cellular respiration.
What is the life cycle of red blood cells?
The life cycle of red blood cells includes:
* Formation in bone marrow
* Circulation in the bloodstream
* Removal by the spleen and liver after about 120 days
This cycle is essential for maintaining healthy blood levels.
What is the process of white blood cell production?
White blood cell production involves:
* Differentiation from stem cells
* Development into various types of leukocytes
This process is crucial for the immune response.
How do white blood cells encounter pathogens?
White blood cells encounter pathogens through:
* Chemotaxis
* Phagocytosis
* Antigen presentation
These mechanisms are key for initiating immune responses.
What role do neutrophils play in fighting pathogens?
Neutrophils primarily function to:
* Phagocytize bacteria
* Release enzymes that kill pathogens
They are the first responders in the immune system.
What are oral implications of blood disorders?
Oral implications include:
* Burning sensation
* Altered taste sensation
* Red staining of the oral mucosa
* Oral manifestations of anemia
* Oral manifestations of leukemia
These symptoms can significantly affect a patient’s quality of life.
What does a Full Blood Count measure?
A Full Blood Count measures:
* Hemoglobin
* Hematocrit
* Platelet count
* Red cell count
* White blood cell count
This test is essential for diagnosing various blood disorders.
What are the ABO blood groups?
The ABO blood groups include:
* Type A
* Type B
* Type AB
* Type O
These groups are determined by the presence or absence of antigens on red blood cells.
What is the RH blood group?
The RH blood group is determined by the presence of the Rh factor (D antigen) on red blood cells.
Individuals can be Rh-positive or Rh-negative.
What is hemolytic disease?
Hemolytic disease occurs when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of a mother and her fetus, leading to the destruction of fetal red blood cells.
This condition is often linked to Rh incompatibility.
What is the role of platelets?
Platelets play a crucial role in:
* Blood clotting
* Formation of a platelet plug
They are essential for hemostasis.
Describe the mechanisms that contribute to hemostasis.
Mechanisms of hemostasis include:
* Vascular spasm
* Platelet plug formation
* Blood coagulation
These mechanisms work together to prevent excessive bleeding.
What are the stages involved in blood clotting?
Stages of blood clotting include:
* Vascular injury
* Platelet adhesion and activation
* Coagulation cascade activation
* Formation of a stable clot
Each stage is critical for effective hemostasis.
What factors promote blood clotting?
Factors that promote blood clotting include:
* Platelet activation
* Coagulation factors
* Calcium ions
These elements are necessary for the coagulation cascade.
What can disrupt normal hemostatic mechanisms?
Disruptions can be caused by:
* Blood vessel wall abnormalities
* Effects of drugs
* Abnormalities in platelet number and function
* Clotting factor deficiencies
* Hypercoagulability
These factors can lead to abnormal bleeding or clotting.
What investigative studies are used for abnormal bleeding?
Common studies include:
* Bleeding time
* Clotting time
* Platelet count
* Prothrombin time
* Thrombin time
* Activated partial thromboplastin time
These tests help diagnose bleeding disorders.
