The Blood

Study Guide

 

 

1. Identify and differentiate the following constituents of blood and their sources and functions: plasma, formed elements, albumin, globulins (transport, immuno-), fibrinogens, erythrocytes, leucocytes, thrombocytes, serum, hematocrit, PCV, VPRC.

2. Describe the characteristics and functions of erythrocytes, their average number and lifespan. Identify the locations of erythrocyte manufacture (erythropoiesis), storage and aged erythrocyte destruction in the body. Describe the life cycle of erythrocytes including the feedback control of erythropoiesis, and the substances needed. Include the roles of the kidney and bone marrow. Terms: hemocytoblast, pleuripotential stem cell, colony forming unit (CFU), erythropoietin, folic acid, Vitamin B12, iron, apotransferrin, transferrin, intrinsic factor, iron deficiency anemia, pernicious anemia, aplastic anemia, myeloid tissue, Rouleau formation.

3. Describe the structural components of hemoglobin and its location and function in the body. Describe the chemical change the molecule exhibits between the oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin states. Describe the effect of carbon monoxide on the function of hemoglobin. Identify the products of hemoglobin breakdown and their fates in the body.  Terms: globin, alpha and beta chains, heme group, iron, bilirubin, ferritin, hemosiderin, carbon monoxide poisoning, sickle-cell anemia, carboxyhemoglobin.

4. Describe the mechanisms for carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood and the proportions carried by each means. Describe the chemical reaction of carbon dioxide with water and discuss where and under what conditions the reaction occurs. Terms: carbonic anhydrase, carbonic acid, bicarbonate buffer, carbaminohemoglobin.

5. Identify the source and occurrence and describe the structure and functions of each of the following leucocytes: neutrophil (PMN), monocyte, lymphocyte, eosinophil, basophil. Terms: leucopoiesis, leukemia, leucopenia, mononucleosis, mast cell, histamine, heparin, antihistamine, CSFs (colony stimulating factors).

6. Describe the basic mechanism of blood clotting (coagulation, hemostasis). Include the sources and roles of: platelets (thrombocytes), prothrombin, thrombin, fibrinogen, fibrin, thromboplastin, platelet factors, calcium ions, collagen, thromboxane, PF3, antithrombin III. Identify the significance and difference between the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways and the components of each. Describe the basic events occurring in each of the three phases: vascular spasm, platelet adhesion, coagulation.   Terms: clot retraction, thrombus, embolus, platelet plug, fibrinolysis, plasmin, prothrombinase (prothrombin activator).

7. Describe the importance and functions of the following which facilitate or inhibit clotting: antithrombin III, heparin, citrate, coumadin (e.g. dicumarol), blood pressure, vasoconstriction, temperature, vitamin K, serotonin.

8. Describe the circulatory plan and identify the functions of heart, arteries, veins, capillaries and the blood as organs of the cardiovascular system.

 

 

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