Reference no: EM133658313

Question: The three classes of formed elements are erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells), and the thrombocytes (platelets). The erythrocyte is the most common formed element found in the body. Its primary function is to pick up inhaled oxygen from the lungs and transport it to the body's tissues, and to pick up some carbon dioxide waste at the tissues and transport it to the lungs for exhalation. Leukocytes are far less numerous and larger than erythrocytes. They are also the only formed elements with complete cells and possess nucleus and organelles. One of the most distinctive characteristics of leukocytes is their movement. Leukocytes routinely leave the bloodstream to perform their defensive functions in the body's tissues whereas erythrocytes spend their days circulating within the blood vessels. Thrombocytes, also known as platelets are special blood cells that control blood clotting. They are critical for healing wounds and stopping bleeding. They look like tiny, colorless plates. When a blood vessel tears, platelets stick together to form a clot, plugging the tear to stop bleeding. Anaemia is a condition people experience when their number of red blood cell is deficient. Anaemia can result to lower levels of oxygen being delivered to body tissues therefore can lead to the body feeling fatigue and lethargic. More over, an oxygen deficit in the brain impairs the ability to think clearly and may prompt headaches and irritability. Lack of oxygen also causes shortness of breath. Disorders of Leukocytes are Leukopenia, a condition in which too few leukocytes are produced. Leukopenic individuals may be unable to ward off infectious diseases. Leukaemia is a cancer involving over production of abnormal leukocytes. Lymphoma is a form of cancer in which masses of malignant T and/or B lymphocytes collect in lymph nodes, the spleen, the liver and other tissues.