White Blood Cells (WBC) Characteristics and Functions

Practice flashcards covering the normal ranges, morphology, and functions of the five types of white blood cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils).

The normal reference range for the total WBC count is __________ per cubic millimeter.

$$4,000 - 11,000/\text{mm}^3$$

The most abundant type of white blood cell, representing $50-70\%$ of total WBCs, is the __________.

neutrophil

Neutrophils possess fine and pale granules along with a nucleus containing __________ lobes.

$$3-5$$

Neutrophils act as the main cells in acute inflammation and perform phagocytosis of __________.

bacteria

Accounting for $20-40\%$ of total WBCs, __________ feature a large round nucleus and a thin rim of cytoplasm.

lymphocytes

Lymphocytes provide specific immunity, produce antibodies, and include T cells, B cells, and __________.

NK cells

The largest type of WBC, comprising $2-8\%$ of the total count, is the __________.

monocyte

Monocytes possess abundant cytoplasm and a nucleus that is __________ shaped.

kidney / horse-shoe

In addition to cleaning dead cells and debris, monocytes perform phagocytosis and become __________.

macrophages

Eosinophils represent $1-4\%$ of WBCs and are distinguished by large coarse granules that are __________ in color.

orange red

Featuring a bi-lobed nucleus, eosinophils participate in allergic reactions, asthma, and defense against __________.

parasites

Representing $0-1\%$ of WBCs, the cell type least in number is the __________.

basophil

Basophils have large dark granules, an S-shaped or obscured nucleus, and function in allergic reactions by releasing __________.

histamine

The mnemonic used to remember the descending order of WBC abundance is '__________'.

Never Let Monkeys Eat Bananas