Leukocytes: The Five Different Types

Leukocytes are a specialized cell present within the body to defend against infection and invasion from foreign pathogens. Leukocytes consume foreign pathogens through a process known as phagocytosis, in which the leukocytes “eat” the foreign substance. There are five different types of leukocytes found in the body; neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes.

Neutrophils
Neutrophils make up roughly 55-70% of the total amount of white blood cells found in the blood. Neutrophils are often found near the site of infection of injury and adhere to the walls of the blood vessels and protect the body by absorbing any foreign substances which may attempt to enter the blood stream through the infected or injured site. Neutrophils offer protection to the body in two ways; through phagocytosis, and through a complicated process in which the neutrophil releases chemicals that are capable of killing bacteria within a certain distance of the neutrophil.

Eosinophils
Eosinophils are more abundant within the mucosal tissues, and are more specifically designed to defend against allergens and invading pathogens. Eosinophils account for less than 5% of the total amount of white blood cells found in the blood, but play important roles in the reactions associated with allergies.

Basophils
Basophils are believed to aid in carrying out the functions of other leukocytes, speeding the delivery and transportation of these leukocytes and other substances to their target destinations. Basophils are still not completely understood.

Lymphocytes
Lymphocytes are responsible for protecting the body by recognizing specific substances and producing antibodies to combat that substance. Lymphocytes are capable of recognizing certain types of foreign substances and taking action to remove these substances from the body. Lymphocytes are composed of three specific types of lymphocytes; natural killer cells, T cells and B cells.

Monocytes
Monocytes are the largest of all white blood cells and account for 5-10% of the total amount of white blood cells in the blood. These cells are responsible for removing harmful substances from the blood, and preventing foreign pathogens from entering the blood stream. Monocytes are also responsible for the disposal of dead, dying and damaged cells within the body.

References
Saladin, Kenneth S.. Anatomy & physiology: the unity of form and function. 5th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2010. Print.

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