Blood: Vital fluid in the body responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.
Components of Blood: Comprises plasma (55% of volume), red blood cells (RBCs) (45% of volume), and white blood cells (WBCs).
Plasma: Liquid portion with water, electrolytes, proteins, hormones, and waste. Facilitates nutrient transport and temperature regulation.
RBCs (Erythrocytes): Mainly transport oxygen to tissues and return carbon dioxide to the lungs. Contain hemoglobin for oxygen binding.
WBCs (Leukocytes): Integral to the immune system’s defense against infections and pathogens.
Types of WBCs: Include neutrophils (rapid infection responders), lymphocytes (specific immune response and antibody production), monocytes (phagocytic cells), eosinophils (combat parasites and modulate immune response), and basophils (inflammatory and allergic responses).
Neutrophils: Abundant and engulf bacteria.
Lymphocytes: Responsible for immune responses and antibody production.
Monocytes: Large phagocytic cells that ingest pathogens and aid in tissue repair.
Eosinophils: Combat parasites and modulate immune responses.
Basophils: Involved in inflammatory and allergic responses, release histamines.
