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Serology Notes
I.
Blood Volume and Composition
A. Hemocytoblasts (stem cells) in the red marrow create new blood
cells
B. Blood Components
1. 45% hematocrit
a. 99% erythrocytes (rbc)
i.
transport gasses; hemoglobin is the O2 carrying
molecule
ii. millions of antigens on cell surface (A, B, O,
and Rh) which may stimulate the production of
antibodies causing agglutination
iii. Rh+ mean a person has the D antigen
b. Leukocytes (white blood cells - wbc) – protect against
infection
i.
neutrophils – most numerous wbc that aides the
immune system through phagocytosis
ii. eosinophils – attack parasites
iii. basophil - cause allergic reactions by releasing
histamines; prevents blood clots
iv. monocyte – largest wbc; phagocytotic
v.
lymphocyte – produce antibodies and cytokines
c. Platelets/Thrombocytes – repair damaged blood vessels
and initiate the formation of blood clots
2. 55% plasma – mix of water, salts, organic compounds,
vitamins, hormones, electrolytes, and wastes
II.
Serology – the study of antibody-antigen reaction
A. Presumptive detection of drugs using antibodies