A Quiz On Blood For Intellectuals Chapter 15:

Erythrocytes, also known as red blood cells, are the oxygen-carrying blood cells in the body. They contain a protein called hemoglobin, which binds to oxygen in the lungs and transports it to the body's tissues. This allows for the efficient delivery of oxygen to cells and the removal of carbon dioxide. Granulocytes, thrombocytes, and eosinophils are types of white blood cells that have different functions in the immune system and blood clotting, but they do not carry oxygen like erythrocytes.

The normal pH of blood is 7.35 to 7.45. This range is considered slightly alkaline or basic. Maintaining a stable blood pH is crucial for the proper functioning of the body's cells and organs. Deviations from this range can lead to health issues, such as acidosis or alkalosis, which can disrupt various physiological processes. Therefore, it is important for the blood pH to remain within this narrow range for optimal health and homeostasis.

At the end of 120 days, the red blood cell is removed from the circulation and broken down. This is a natural process that occurs in the body. Red blood cells have a limited lifespan, and after about 120 days, they are recognized as old or damaged by the body's immune system. The immune system then removes these cells from circulation and breaks them down. This breakdown process allows for the recycling of components such as iron, which can be used to produce new red blood cells.

Heme is a component of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells. It is made up of a complex organic molecule called porphyrin, which binds to an iron ion in the center. This iron ion is crucial for the ability of hemoglobin to bind and release oxygen. Therefore, heme contains iron.

An antithrombin agent is a substance that inhibits or prevents blood coagulation. This means that it helps to prevent the formation of blood clots in the body. Blood coagulation is a natural process that helps to stop bleeding, but when it occurs inappropriately or excessively, it can lead to serious health issues such as deep vein thrombosis or stroke. Therefore, an antithrombin agent is used to regulate and prevent abnormal blood clotting, ensuring proper blood flow and reducing the risk of clot-related complications.

Anemia is the correct answer because it is a condition that occurs due to a deficiency in iron. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. When there is a lack of iron, the body is unable to produce enough healthy red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

AB blood type is called the universal recipient because individuals with this blood type can receive blood from any other blood type without experiencing an immune reaction. This is because AB blood type contains both A and B antigens on the surface of red blood cells, making it compatible with all other blood types.

The hematocrit is a measure of the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. It is used to determine the volume of red blood cells in relation to the total blood volume. A higher hematocrit indicates a higher concentration of red blood cells, which can be an indication of conditions such as dehydration or polycythemia. A lower hematocrit may suggest anemia or blood loss. Overall, the hematocrit provides valuable information about the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.

The rapid breakdown of red blood cells can cause jaundice. Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes due to an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment, in the blood. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. When these cells break down, hemoglobin is released and converted into bilirubin. If the breakdown is too rapid, the liver may not be able to process the bilirubin efficiently, leading to its accumulation and resulting in jaundice. Therefore, the rapid breakdown of red blood cells is a plausible explanation for the occurrence of jaundice.

Hyperbilirubinemia refers to an excess of bilirubin in the blood, which can cause a yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes known as jaundice. Kernicterus is a severe condition that occurs when high levels of bilirubin cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in the brain, leading to neurological damage. Therefore, the correct answer "yellow" describes both hyperbilirubinemia and kernicterus as they are characterized by a yellow coloration of the skin and eyes.

A person with type O blood can safely receive O type blood because type O blood is considered the universal donor. This means that it does not have any antigens on the red blood cells that can trigger an immune response in the recipient. Therefore, it can be transfused to individuals with any blood type without causing an adverse reaction.

Phagocytosis is the process by which white blood cells engulf and destroy foreign particles, such as bacteria or dead cells, in order to protect the body from infection and disease. This process is a key function of white blood cells and is essential for the immune system's defense mechanisms. Oxygen transport, hemoglobin, and bilirubin are not directly related to white blood cells and their functions.

Erythroblastosis, also known as hemolytic disease of the newborn, is most likely to occur when the baby is Rh (+) and the mother is Rh (-). This is because if the mother is Rh (-) and the baby is Rh (+), the mother's immune system may produce antibodies against the Rh factor in the baby's blood, leading to destruction of the baby's red blood cells. This condition can cause severe anemia and other complications in the baby.

Monocytes and lymphocytes are nongranular leukocytes. Leukocytes, also known as white blood cells, are an essential part of the immune system and play a crucial role in defending the body against infections and diseases. Nongranular leukocytes, such as monocytes and lymphocytes, lack visible granules in their cytoplasm. They are responsible for various immune responses, including the production of antibodies, phagocytosis, and the regulation of immune reactions. Their nongranular nature distinguishes them from granular leukocytes, such as neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils, which have visible granules in their cytoplasm.

Erythropoietin is a hormone that is secreted by the kidneys. Its main function is to stimulate the bone marrow to produce red blood cells (RBCs). Additionally, erythropoietin is released in response to hypoxemia, which is a condition characterized by low levels of oxygen in the blood. Therefore, all of the given statements are correct, as erythropoietin is indeed secreted by the kidneys, stimulates the bone marrow to produce RBCs, and is released in response to hypoxemia.

A biconcave disc shape is a characteristic of red blood cells. Hemoglobin is the protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Erythropoietin is a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells. Therefore, the correct answer is red blood cell as it is directly related to all the given terms.

A reticulocyte is an immature erythrocyte, which means it is a developing red blood cell that has not yet fully matured. It still contains remnants of its nucleus and other organelles, which are gradually expelled as it matures into a fully functional red blood cell. This process is important for the production of new red blood cells in the body. Therefore, "immature erythrocyte" is the most descriptive term for a reticulocyte.

Bilirubin is a breakdown product of red blood cells. Red blood cells contain a protein called hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. When red blood cells break down, the hemoglobin is converted into bilirubin. Bilirubin is then processed by the liver and excreted in the bile. High levels of bilirubin can indicate liver or blood disorders.

A neutrophil is a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system's defense against infections. Neutrophils are known as phagocytes because they have the ability to engulf and destroy pathogens, such as bacteria and fungi, through a process called phagocytosis. They are highly specialized in detecting and eliminating foreign substances, making them an essential component of the body's immune response.

The stem cell is the "parent cell" because it is capable of differentiating into all three types of blood cells (erythrocyte, leukocyte, and megakaryocyte) that are produced in the bone marrow. Stem cells have the unique ability to self-renew and give rise to specialized cells, making them crucial in the process of blood cell production.

Platelets are small, disc-shaped cell fragments that play a crucial role in blood clotting. One of their key characteristics is their stickiness. When blood vessels are damaged, platelets adhere to the site of injury and clump together, forming a plug to stop bleeding. This stickiness is facilitated by the presence of specific molecules on the surface of platelets, which allow them to bind to each other and to the damaged blood vessel walls. Therefore, stickiness is a characteristic feature of platelets.

Prothrombin and fibrinogen are proteins that play a crucial role in the process of blood clotting. They are known as clotting factors because they are directly involved in the formation of blood clots. Thrombolytic agents, on the other hand, are medications that dissolve blood clots, while anticoagulants prevent the formation of blood clots. Plasminogen activators are enzymes that convert plasminogen into plasmin, which helps break down blood clots. Therefore, the best description for prothrombin and fibrinogen is "clotting factors."

Immobility during bed rest can lead to venous thrombosis, which is the formation of blood clots in the veins. When a person is immobile for extended periods, blood flow slows down and can become stagnant in the veins, increasing the risk of clot formation. This is especially common in the lower extremities, where blood tends to pool due to gravity. Venous thrombosis can be dangerous as a clot can break loose and travel to vital organs, causing a blockage and potentially leading to serious complications like a pulmonary embolism.

Anemia is the correct answer because it refers to a decrease in the number of erythrocytes, which are red blood cells. This condition can occur due to various reasons such as blood loss, decreased production of red blood cells, or increased destruction of red blood cells. Anemia can result in symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Granulocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, and polycythemia do not specifically refer to a decrease in erythrocytes, but rather involve a decrease in other types of blood cells or an increase in the number of red blood cells.

Leukocytosis is the correct answer because it refers to an increase in the number of white blood cells in the body. During an infection, the body's immune system responds by producing more white blood cells to fight off the invading pathogens. Therefore, leukocytosis is commonly seen as a result of an infection. Thrombocytopenia refers to a decrease in platelet count, anemia refers to a decrease in red blood cell count, and jaundice refers to a yellowing of the skin and eyes due to liver dysfunction. While these conditions can sometimes be associated with an infection, leukocytosis is the most consistent and reliable indicator.

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that affects the blood's ability to clot properly. As a result, the main characteristic of hemophilia is excessive and prolonged bleeding, even from minor injuries. This is because the blood lacks certain clotting factors that are necessary for the formation of blood clots. Hemophilia does not typically cause high fever, infection, or jaundice, so the best characterization of its effects is bleeding.

Heme is broken down into bilirubin. This breakdown product occurs during the normal breakdown of red blood cells in the liver. Bilirubin is then processed by the liver and excreted in bile, which gives feces its characteristic brown color.

An overdose of heparin or warfarin sodium (Coumadin) can lead to bleeding. Heparin and warfarin are both anticoagulant medications that are used to prevent blood clots. However, if the dosage is too high, these medications can thin the blood excessively, leading to excessive bleeding. This can manifest as nosebleeds, easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts or wounds, blood in the urine or stool, or excessive menstrual bleeding. It is important to monitor the dosage of these medications carefully to avoid complications.

A neutrophil is a type of blood cell that fits the description of being granulocytic, phagocytic, and motile. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that are part of the immune system and play a crucial role in fighting off infections. They are able to engulf and destroy bacteria and other foreign particles through a process called phagocytosis. Neutrophils are also highly mobile and can move towards sites of infection or inflammation in the body. Therefore, neutrophil is the correct answer to the question.

Both red blood cells and white blood cells are produced in the bone marrow. The bone marrow is responsible for the production of all types of blood cells, including both red blood cells and white blood cells. This is where stem cells differentiate and mature into their respective cell types. Therefore, it can be concluded that both red blood cells and white blood cells are produced in the bone marrow.

Hypoxemia, or low oxygen levels in the blood, is the stimulus for the release of erythropoietin. Erythropoietin is a hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. When oxygen levels in the blood are low, such as in cases of high altitude or lung disease, the kidneys detect this and release erythropoietin to increase the production of red blood cells. This helps to improve oxygen-carrying capacity and restore normal oxygen levels in the body.

Intrinsic Factor is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is a vital nutrient that is required for the production of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and maintenance of the nervous system. However, vitamin B12 cannot be absorbed directly from the diet. Intrinsic Factor, which is produced by the stomach lining, binds to vitamin B12 in the stomach and allows it to be absorbed in the small intestine. Without Intrinsic Factor, vitamin B12 cannot be properly absorbed, leading to a deficiency and potential health problems.

A person who has had a gastrectomy (removal of the stomach) may develop pernicious anemia because the lack of intrinsic factor, which is produced in the stomach, impairs the absorption of vitamin B12. Intrinsic factor is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine. Without intrinsic factor, vitamin B12 cannot be properly absorbed, leading to a deficiency and the development of pernicious anemia.

TPA, also known as tissue plasminogen activator, is commonly referred to as a "clot buster" because it is a type of thrombolytic medication. Thrombolytics are drugs that help dissolve blood clots by activating the body's natural clot-dissolving system. TPA specifically works by converting plasminogen into plasmin, an enzyme that breaks down fibrin, the protein responsible for clot formation. By promoting the breakdown of clots, TPA helps restore blood flow in conditions such as stroke or myocardial infarction. Therefore, "clot buster" is an alternative name for TPA that accurately describes its mechanism of action.

The statement "water is 3 to 5 times more viscous than blood" is least descriptive of blood because viscosity refers to the thickness or resistance to flow of a fluid. While blood does have a certain level of viscosity, it is not accurate to compare it directly to water and state that water is 3 to 5 times more viscous than blood. The other statements provide factual information about blood, such as its volume, pH level, and the difference in color between oxygenated and unoxygenated blood.

Thrombocytopenia refers to a deficiency of platelets, which are essential for blood clotting. It can be caused by myelopression, which is the suppression of bone marrow activity. Thrombocytopenia may also be accompanied by aplastic anemia, a condition where the bone marrow does not produce enough new blood cells, and granulocytopenia, a decrease in the number of a type of white blood cells called granulocytes. Therefore, all of the above options are correct explanations for thrombocytopenia.

TPA (tissue plasminogen activator) is a substance that is known to dissolve blood clots. When there is a blood clot in the body, TPA activates the conversion of plasminogen into plasmin, which is an enzyme that breaks down the fibrin mesh of the clot. This process helps to restore blood flow by dissolving the clot and preventing further blockage. Therefore, the correct answer is that TPA dissolves blood clots.

Extrinsic factors are external substances or elements that are necessary for the proper functioning of the body. In this case, vitamin B12 is considered an extrinsic factor because it is not produced by the body and must be obtained from external sources such as food or supplements. Iron, heme, and prothrombin are not considered extrinsic factors as they are either produced by the body or are components of the body's natural processes.

Neutrophils, basophils, and eosinophils are all granulocytes. Granulocytes are a type of white blood cell characterized by the presence of granules in their cytoplasm. These granules contain various enzymes and chemicals that help in the immune response against pathogens. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of granulocytes and are involved in the initial defense against bacterial infections. Basophils release histamine and other chemicals during allergic reactions. Eosinophils are involved in fighting parasitic infections and play a role in allergic responses. Therefore, the correct answer is granulocytes.

The group "results of myelosuppression: granulocytopenia, aplastic anemia, hemophilia" is incorrect because hemophilia is not a result of myelosuppression. Myelosuppression refers to a decrease in the production of blood cells, specifically in the bone marrow. Granulocytopenia and aplastic anemia are conditions that can occur due to myelosuppression, but hemophilia is a bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in clotting factors, not related to bone marrow suppression.

Leukocytosis and leukopenia refer to abnormal numbers of white blood cells in the body. Leukocytosis indicates an increased number of white blood cells, while leukopenia signifies a decreased number of white blood cells. These conditions can be indicative of various underlying health issues, such as infections, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, or bone marrow disorders. The term "abnormal" encompasses both increased and decreased numbers, making it the correct answer choice. Myelosuppression, on the other hand, refers specifically to a decrease in the production of blood cells by the bone marrow and is not synonymous with leukocytosis or leukopenia.

When donor blood is typed and crossmatched with the recipient's blood, it is done to prevent agglutination. Agglutination refers to the clumping together of red blood cells due to an immune response. If the donor blood contains antigens that are incompatible with the recipient's blood, it can lead to an immune reaction and the formation of clumps or agglutination. This can result in serious complications such as blockage of blood vessels and organ damage. Therefore, typing and crossmatching are essential to ensure compatibility and prevent agglutination.

Prothrombin, thrombin, and fibrinogen are involved in coagulation. Coagulation is the process by which blood forms clots to stop bleeding. Prothrombin is a protein precursor that is converted into thrombin, an enzyme that plays a key role in the coagulation cascade. Thrombin then converts fibrinogen, another protein, into fibrin, which forms a mesh-like structure that helps to stabilize the clot. Therefore, these three substances are all essential components in the process of blood coagulation.

Vitamin K is necessary for prothrombin synthesis. Prothrombin is a protein that plays a crucial role in blood clotting. Vitamin K is required for the synthesis of several blood clotting factors, including prothrombin. It helps in the activation of these clotting factors, which are essential for the formation of blood clots to stop bleeding. Without sufficient vitamin K, the production of prothrombin would be impaired, leading to a decreased ability to form blood clots and an increased risk of excessive bleeding.

Petechiae formation refers to pinpoint hemorrhages under the skin. In sickle cell anemia, the red blood cells become rigid and sickle-shaped, leading to blockages in the blood vessels. These blockages can cause small blood vessels to burst, resulting in the formation of petechiae. A diet high in vitamin K does not prevent petechiae formation, as it is primarily caused by the abnormal shape and function of red blood cells. A deficiency of reticulocytes, which are immature red blood cells, is not directly linked to petechiae formation.

In a myelosuppressed patient, the bone marrow is unable to produce enough blood cells, leading to a decrease in their numbers. Among the options provided, white blood cells are most likely to be depressed in this condition. White blood cells play a crucial role in the immune system, fighting off infections and diseases. Therefore, a myelosuppressed patient is likely to have a decreased number of white blood cells, making them more susceptible to infections and compromising their immune response.

The function most associated with fibrinogen, prothrombin, and calcium is blood coagulation. Fibrinogen and prothrombin are clotting factors involved in the formation of fibrin, which helps in the clotting process. Calcium is required for the activation of clotting factors and plays a crucial role in the coagulation cascade. Therefore, blood coagulation is the correct answer as it encompasses the process of clot formation and involves the mentioned components.

Fibrin strands are most associated with a blood clot. When there is an injury or damage to a blood vessel, the body initiates a process called coagulation, where a series of chemical reactions occur to form a clot. Fibrinogen, a soluble protein in the blood, is converted into insoluble fibrin strands by an enzyme called thrombin. These fibrin strands form a mesh-like structure that traps platelets and other blood cells, forming a clot to prevent excessive bleeding. Therefore, fibrin strands are closely associated with the formation of a blood clot.

Aplastic anemia is associated with myelosuppression, which refers to a decrease in the production of blood cells in the bone marrow. In aplastic anemia, the bone marrow fails to produce enough red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This leads to a decrease in the number of these cells in the bloodstream, causing anemia, increased susceptibility to infections, and bleeding problems. Folic acid deficiency, hemolytic anemia, and sickle cell anemia do not typically cause myelosuppression.

Myelosuppression is the correct answer because it refers to the suppression of bone marrow activity, leading to a decrease in the production of granulocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Granulocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low level of granulocytes in the blood, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Hemolysis, infection, and petechiae are not directly related to the cause of granulocytopenia.