The Buffy Coat, Which Represents

Question

The buffy coat, which represents < 1 percent of whole blood, is comprised of _______________.
A)erythrocytes and platelets
B)leukocytes and platelets
C)leukocytes and clotting factors
D)platelets and clotting factors

Accepted Answer

The buffy coat is a thin layer of leukocytes (white blood cells) and platelets that separates from the rest of the blood when it is centrifuged. Therefore, the best choice is B, which includes leukocytes and platelets. Choice A is incorrect because platelets and erythrocytes (red blood cells) are not part of the buffy coat. Choice C is incorrect because clotting factors are not found in the buffy coat. Choice D is incorrect because clotting factors are not found in the buffy coat and platelets alone do not make up the entire buffy coat.