Granulocytes - Neutrophils

What are leukocytes?

White blood cells that fight infections.

What are granulocytes?

Leukocytes with granules; includes neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.

What are neutrophils?

Most common granulocytes (50-70% of WBCs), fight bacterial infections.

Neutrophil structure + stain

3-5 lobed nucleus, has fine granules

Cytoplasm stain: pale lilac

What role do Neutrophils play in the immune system?

Neutrophils are involved in bacterial infections. They perform phagocytosis and release antimicrobial chemicals like lysosomes and defensins, which help to kill bacteria. This is part of the respiratory burst.

What are Neutrophils sometimes referred to as?

Neutrophils are sometimes called stab cells, band cells, or polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs).