Types of Leukocytes

• Granulocyte

• Most numerous type

• Segmented or multilobed - called segs or polys

• Destroy pathogens by phagocytosis

Neutrophils

• Two-lobed nucleus

• Ingest/detoxify foreign protein

• Help turn off immune reactions

• Increase with allergies and parasite infestations

Eosinophils

• Least numerous type

• Release histamine and heparin, enhance inflammatory response

Basophils

• Agranulocyte

• 2nd most numerous WBC

• T lymphocytes directly attack infected cells

• B lymphocytes give rise to plasma cells that produce immunoglobulins (antibodies), which are released into the bloodstream to circulate/attack foreign cells

Lymphocytes

• Largest WBC

• Destroy pathogens by phagocytosis - big eaters

• First line of defense in the inflammatory process

Monocytes AKA macrophages