Blood:the fluid of our body
1. Blood Blood is a fluid connective tissue. It consists of plasma (liquid part) and formed elements (cells). Functions: transport of nutrients, gases, hormones, wastes, maintenance of pH, temperature regulation, and defense. 2. Plasma Straw-colored fluid making up about 55% of blood. Contains water, proteins (albumin, globulin, fibrinogen), nutrients, hormones, and wastes. Helps in transport and blood clotting. 3. Formed Elements of Blood a) Erythrocytes (RBCs) Most abundant blood cells. Contain haemoglobin for oxygen transport. Produced in red bone marrow. Lifespan: about 120 days. b) Leucocytes (WBCs) Body's defense cells. Two types: Granulocytes: Neutrophils, Eosinophils, Basophils. Agranulocytes: Lymphocytes, Monocytes. c) Platelets (Thrombocytes) Cell fragments involved in blood clotting. Produced from megakaryocytes in bone marrow. 4. Blood Groups ABO Blood Group System Based on presence or absence of A and B antigens on RBCs. Four groups: A, B, AB, O. Important for safe blood transfusion. Rh Blood Group System Based on Rh antigen (D antigen). Individuals are Rh-positive or Rh-negative. 5. Coagulation of Blood Prevents excessive blood loss after injury. Involves conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin. Platelets and clotting factors participate in clot formation. 6. Lymph (Tissue Fluid) Colourless fluid derived from blood plasma. Contains lymphocytes. Functions: Transport of fats from intestine. Returns excess tissue fluid to blood. Immune defense. 7. Erythroblastosis Fetalis (Haemolytic Disease of the Newborn) Occurs due to Rh incompatibility between an Rh-negative mother and an Rh-positive fetus. During the first Rh-positive pregnancy, the mother may develop anti-Rh antibodies. In a subsequent Rh-positive pregnancy, these antibodies can cross the placenta and destroy fetal RBCs. Can cause severe anemia, jaundice, or even fetal death. Prevention: injection of anti-Rh antibodies (RhoGAM) to the Rh-negative mother after delivery of the first Rh-positive child.
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