General Features of the Cardiovascular System
摘要
The purpose of this chapter is to provide a general overview of the human cardiovascular system to serve as a quick reference to its underlying physiological composition. Rapid transport of molecules over long distances between internal cells, the body surface, and/or various specialized tissues and organs is the primary function of the cardiovascular system. This body-wide transport system is composed of several major components: blood, the blood vessels, the heart, and the lymphatic system. When functioning normally, this system adequately provides for the wide-ranging activities that a human can accomplish. Failure in any of these components can lead to pathological or even grave consequences. Subsequent chapters will cover, in greater detail, the anatomical, physiological, and pathophysiological features of the cardiovascular system.