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What are the main components of whole blood and their respective percentages?

Whole blood consists of two main components: plasma, which makes up 55% of the total volume, and formed elements (blood cells), which account for 45%.

Key points

  • Whole blood volume is approximately 5 liters in adults.
  • Plasma constitutes 55% of whole blood.
  • Formed elements (blood cells) make up 45% of whole blood.
Source:Medical Terminology: An Illustrated Guide, Ninth Edition· Blood and Immunity· p. 377–390

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Cover of Medical Terminology: An Illustrated Guide, Ninth Edition

Medical Terminology: An Illustrated Guide, Ninth Edition

Barbara Janson Cohen, Shirley Jones

Ninth Edition · Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, an Ascend Learning Company

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