This book presents a masterful overview of the mechanics of blood cell formation and the factors that control blood cell growth. Cells circulating in the blood perform functions essential for the survival of organisms, yet blood cells and associated blood-cell-forming (hemopoietic) tissues have certain features that make them quite different from other vital organs in the body. These features include the short life span of mature blood cells, the multiplicity of blood cell types, and the wide dispersion of hemopoietic tissue in the body. The regulation of hemopoiesis in response to emergencies such as blood loss or infections is an exceedingly complex process. However, our knowledge of hemopoietic growth factors, known generally as colony-stimulating factors or CSFs, has made exciting advances in recent years. This book provides a leading authority's review of the purification and cloning of CSFs and their actions in regulating white blood cell production in the body. Donald Metcalf also examines the role of CSFs in controlling resistance to infections and in the initiation and suppression of myeloid leukemia. Metcalf's involvement at the center of this research from its inception to the present day enables him to give a historical view as well as a lucid summary of recent research. In addition, he addresses the broader question of the relation between growth control and cancer development. This excellent synopsis should be of particular interest to hematologists, virologists, general clinicians, and medical students.

Red blood cells in humans—and most other mammals—have a tendency to form aggregates with a characteristic face-to-face morphology, similar to a stack of coins. Known as rouleaux, these aggregates are a normally occurring phenomenon and have a major impact on blood rheology. What is the underlying mechanism that produces this pattern? Does this really happen in blood circulation? And do these rouleaux formations have a useful function? The first book to offer a comprehensive review of the subject, Red Blood Cell Aggregation tackles these and other questions related to red blood cell (RBC) aggregates. The book covers basic, clinical, and physiological aspects of this important biophysical phenomenon and integrates these areas with concepts in bioengineering. It brings together state-of-the-art research on the determinants, mechanisms, and measurement and effects of RBC aggregation as well as on variations and comparative aspects. After an introductory overview, the book outlines factors and conditions that affect RBC aggregation. It presents the two hypotheses—the bridging model and the depletion model—that provide potential mechanisms for the adhesive forces that lead to the regular packing of the cells in rouleaux formations. The book also reviews the methods used to quantify RBC aggregation in vitro, focusing on their importance in clinical practice. Chapters discuss the effect of RBC aggregation on the in vitro rheology of blood as well as on tube flow. The book also looks at what happens in the circulation when red blood cells aggregate and examines variations due to physiological and pathophysiological challenges. The concluding chapter explores the formation of red blood cell aggregates in other mammals. Written by leading researchers in the field, this is an invaluable resource for basic science, medical, and clinical researchers; graduate students; and clinicians interested in mammalian red blood cells.

This important book uses selected molecules expressed on erythrocytes, lymphocytes, platelets and granulocytes to illustrate how genetic polymorphisms and variations in these molecules can affect their structure and function in mature human blood cells. The examples described tend to have a clinical association. Human blood group antigens and HLA antigens are classic examples of genetic polymorphism and they are important in blood transfusion and organ transplantation, respectively. In common with the blood group antigens, the polymorphic and variant antigens on platelets and granulocytes can be targets for antibodies in feto-maternal antigen incompatibility and transfusion reactions. Certain inherited haemolytic anaemias can be attributed to some of the polymorphic and variant forms of erythrocyte anion transport protein, spectrin, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase which exhibit abnormal structural or functional properties. Similarly, the study of cytokine gene polymorphism can provide a further understanding of the immune/inflammatory diseases and allogeneic transplantation./a

Contains reproducible pages of lesson ideas.

This comprehensive book is written to inform and improve outcomes of patients in need of blood management during surgical procedures. Information is presented in an accessible format, allowing for immediate use in clinical practice. Beginning with an overview of the history of blood transfusions, early chapters present the foundational information needed to comprehend information in later chapters. Nuanced procedures, drugs, and techniques are covered, including new biologicals to assist clotting and blood substitutes. Further discussions focus on potential complications seen in blood transfusions, such as diseases of the coagulation system, pathogen transmissions, and acute lung injuries. Chapters also examine the complexities of treating specific demographics, of which include the geriatric patient and patients suffering from substance abuse. Essentials of Blood Product Management in Anesthesia Practice is an invaluable guide for anesthesiologists, surgeons, trauma physicians, and solid organ transplant providers.

Mollison's Blood Transfusion in Clinical Medicine is an icon in the field of transfusion and the first edition was published in 1951. The book arose from the concept of the transfusionist, as both scientist and expert consultant. For many years, this text has provided the primary, and often the sole, reference for detailed information and practical experience in blood transfusion. The book is completely revised and updated throughout to include the latest advances and developments in the field.