verikostumus

Verikostumus is the overall composition of blood, describing the relative proportions of plasma and formed elements and the chemical makeup of plasma. It encompasses both the physical distribution of blood components and their biochemical constituents, and it is commonly considered in clinical and physiological contexts to assess health and disease.

Blood consists of plasma and formed elements. Plasma accounts for about 55% of blood volume and is the liquid portion in which cells and proteins are suspended. The formed elements, comprising roughly 45%, include red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets. Hematocrit, the proportion of blood volume occupied by red blood cells, typically falls in the 40–50% range for healthy adults, with slight variations by sex and age. White blood cells and platelets are present in much smaller numbers but are essential for immune function and hemostasis.

Plasma itself is about 92% water and 7% dissolved substances, including proteins, electrolytes, nutrients, hormones, gases, and waste products. Plasma proteins, mainly albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen, contribute to osmotic balance, immune defense, and coagulation. The major formed elements have specific roles: erythrocytes transport oxygen and carbon dioxide; leukocytes defend against infection; platelets participate in blood clotting and wound repair.

Clinically, verikostumus is assessed through tests such as the complete blood count (CBC), which measures red and white cell counts and platelets, and various plasma tests that quantify proteins, electrolytes, and other solutes. Abnormalities in verikostumus can indicate anemia, infection, inflammation, dehydration, or coagulation disorders, and are interpreted in the context of patient history and other findings.