What are platelets also known as?

Platelets are also known as thrombocytes. This term specifically refers to the small, disc-shaped cell fragments in the blood that play a crucial role in hemostasis, which is the process of blood clotting. When a blood vessel is injured, thrombocytes quickly gather at the site of injury, sticking to the damaged area and each other, forming a temporary "platelet plug." This action is vital for preventing excessive bleeding and initiating the healing process.

The other terms listed refer to different components of blood. Leukocytes are white blood cells involved in the immune response, erythrocytes refer to red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen, and neutrophils are a specific type of leukocyte that primarily responds to infection. Understanding the distinct functions and terms associated with each blood component is essential in the field of oncology and broader medical contexts.