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Platelets (thrombocytes) have a life span of 8 to 10 days. True or False?

User Candra
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Final answer:

The claim that platelets have a lifespan of 8 to 10 days is false; their actual lifespan is around 10 days. They play a pivotal role in blood clotting and are eventually broken down by the liver and spleen.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that platelets (thrombocytes) have a lifespan of 8 to 10 days is false. Platelets are essential components of the blood clotting system and have a typical lifespan of about 10 days.

These small cell fragments are produced from megakaryocytes and are crucial in blood clotting processes to prevent excessive blood loss.

When there is a break in the blood vessel, platelets accumulate at the site, adhering to the vessel walls and each other, forming a plug or clot. Although they lack a nucleus, platelets contain several small vesicles and are key players in hemostasis. After their life cycle, platelets are removed by the liver and spleen, where they are phagocytized by macrophages.

User KevinKim
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