BLOOD COMPONENTS
BLOOD COMPONENTS
Component Main Function Key Features Clinical Notes
Anemia (low
Transport Contain
Red Blood Cells count),
oxygen & hemoglobin;
(Erythrocytes) Polycythemia
carbon biconcave shape;
(high count)
dioxide lifespan ~120 days
Several types Increased
Defend in
White Blood (Neutrophils,
against infections,
Cells Lymphocytes,
infection & decreased
(Leukocytes) Monocytes,
immunity in immuno-
Eosinophils,
Basophils) deficiency
Low count →
Small fragments, bleeding risk
Platelets Blood clotting
lifespan ~7–10 (thrombocytope
(Thrombocytes) (hemostasis)
days nia); high count
→ clotting risk
55% of blood Used in plasma
Transport
volume; mostly transfusions
nutrients,
Plasma water; carries (burns, shock,
hormones,
electrolytes & clotting
proteins
proteins disorders)
Contains Used in
Plasma
electrolytes, diagnostic
without
Serum antibodies, tests &
clotting
hormones lab work
factors
BLOOD COMPONENTS
Component Main Function Key Features Clinical Notes
Anemia (low
Transport Contain
Red Blood Cells count),
oxygen & hemoglobin;
(Erythrocytes) Polycythemia
carbon biconcave shape;
(high count)
dioxide lifespan ~120 days
Several types Increased
Defend in
White Blood (Neutrophils,
against infections,
Cells Lymphocytes,
infection & decreased
(Leukocytes) Monocytes,
immunity in immuno-
Eosinophils,
Basophils) deficiency
Low count →
Small fragments, bleeding risk
Platelets Blood clotting
lifespan ~7–10 (thrombocytope
(Thrombocytes) (hemostasis)
days nia); high count
→ clotting risk
55% of blood Used in plasma
Transport
volume; mostly transfusions
nutrients,
Plasma water; carries (burns, shock,
hormones,
electrolytes & clotting
proteins
proteins disorders)
Contains Used in
Plasma
electrolytes, diagnostic
without
Serum antibodies, tests &
clotting
hormones lab work
factors
