wbc

Leukocytes

Also known as white blood cells; play an important role in the immunity of the body.

Granulocytes

A category of white blood cells characterized by the presence of granules in their cytoplasm; includes neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.

Agranulocytes

A category of white blood cells that lack granules; includes lymphocytes and monocytes.

Neutrophils

The first line of defense against infection; contain enzymes such as nucleotidases and catalases.

Eosinophils

White blood cells involved in defense against parasites and play a role in allergic reactions.

Basophils

White blood cells that play a role in allergic responses; contain substances such as histamine and heparin.

Lymphocyte

A type of white blood cell responsible for immune responses; includes T-lymphocytes for cellular immunity and B-lymphocytes for humoral immunity.

Monocytes

Large white blood cells that are motile and phagocytic; they are precursors of tissue macrophages.

Life Span of Neutrophils

2-5 days.

Life Span of Eosinophils

7-12 days.

Life Span of Basophils

12-15 days.

Life Span of Monocytes

2-5 days.

Life Span of Lymphocytes

1/2-1 day.