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Boundless Anatomy and Physiology
Physiology Textbooks Boundless Anatomy and Physiology
Physiology Textbooks
Physiology

Chapter 16

Cardiovascular System: Blood

Book Version 29
By Boundless
Boundless Anatomy and Physiology
Physiology
by Boundless
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Section 1
Overview of Blood
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Components of Blood

Blood is composed of plasma and three types of cells: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

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Physical Characteristics and Volume

Blood contains plasma and blood cells, some of which have hemoglobin that makes blood red. The average blood volume in adult is five liters.

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Functions of Blood

The main function of blood is to supply oxygen to tissues and remove carbon dioxide. Other functions include pH regulation and thermoregulation.

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Blood Plasma

Plasma comprises about 55% of total blood volume. It contains proteins and clotting factors, transports nutrients, and removes waste.

Section 2
Red Blood Cells
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RBC Anatomy

Red blood cells lack nuclei and have a biconcave shape.

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RBC Physiology

The primary functions of red blood cells (RBCs) include carrying oxygen to all parts of the body, binding to hemoglobin, and removing carbon dioxide.

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RBC Life Cycle

Human erythrocytes are produced through a process called erythropoiesis. They take about seven days to mature.

Section 3
White Blood Cells
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Types of WBCs

The different types of white blood cells (leukocytes) include neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and macrophages.

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WBC Function

Each of the several types of white blood cells provide a specific major function in defending the body against infections.

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WBC Formation

Haematopoiesis refers to the formation of blood cells components. It is necessary for vertebrate function.

Section 4
Platelets
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Platelets

Platelets, also called thrombocytes, are membrane-bound cell fragments that are essential for clot formation during wound healing.

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Platelet Formation

Platelets are membrane-bound cell fragments derived from megakaryocytes, which are produced during thrombopoiesis.

Section 5
Hemostasis
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Overview of Hemostasis

Hemostasis is the natural process that stops blood loss when an injury occurs.

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Vascular Spasm

Vasoconstriction is the narrowing of the blood vessels, which reduces blood loss during injury.

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Platelet Plug Formation

At the site of vessel injury, platelets stick together to create a plug, which is the beginning of blood clot formation.

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Coagulation

Coagulation is the process by which a blood clot forms to reduce blood loss after damage to a blood vessel.

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Role of Vitamin K

Vitamin K is an essential factor of the coagulation cascade.

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Clot Retraction and Repair

Clot retraction is the shrinking of a blood clot facilitated by thrombolytic agents.

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Fibrinolysis

Fibrinolysis is a process of breaking down clots in order to prevent them from growing and becoming problematic.

Section 6
Transfusions
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Transfusions of Whole Blood

Whole blood refers to human blood transfusion from a standard blood donation.

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Plasma and Blood Volume Expanders

A volume expander is a type of intravenous therapy that provides fluid replacement for the circulatory system.

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Blood Groups and Blood Types

Red blood cells have surface-expressed proteins that define the self/not-self nature of the cells.

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Typing and Cross-Matching for Transfusions

Blood banks test donor blood to ensure recipient compatibility, reducing the risk of hemolytic reaction, renal failure, and death.

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Chapter 16
Cardiovascular System: Blood
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Cardiovascular System: The Heart
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