Figure 17.7 on page 638 in the textbook reviews the life cycle of RBC’sRed blood cells (erythrocytes) are biconcave disks and this shape increases the __
_Count of the cell and maximizes diffusion of gases. Watch the hemoglobin animation in the course documents.
What is hypoxia?
What is cyanosis?

What is a typical RBC count for males?
What is a typical RBC count for females?
4.2 to 5.4 million/mmcubed
RBC Production:
After birth, RBC production occurs in the red _
bone marrow
_.
The average life span of a red blood cell is ___
100-120 days
________.
Control of RBC production:
Hormonal Control:
The total number of red blood cells remains relatively constant due to a
_
negative
__
feedback mechanism utilizing the hormone
__
erythropoietin
__that is released from the kidneys and liver in response to the
detection of low __
oxygen
___ levels
Dietary Factors Affecting Red Blood Cell Production:
Vitamins __
B12
___ and __
Folic
_____ acid are needed for DNA synthesis, so
they are necessary
for the reproduction of all body cells, especially in
hematopoietic tissue.
The mineral __
iron
___ is also needed for hemoglobin synthesis.
Destruction of Red Blood Cells
With age, red blood cells become increasingly fragile and are damaged by
passing through
__
capillaries
_____.
Macrophages in the
__
liver
___ and ___
spleen
___
phagocytize damaged red
blood cells.
Hemoglobin from the decomposed red blood cells is converted into
__
heme
____ and
_____
globin
___________.
What happens to the heme and iron?
How is physiologic jaundice in newborns related to the destruction of heme? How is it treated?



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- Spring '17
- Gregory Katsaros
- red blood cells