What Are the Five Types of Leukocytes?

Leukocytes, or white blood cells, help ward off infections and other diseases. They help with the immune system, so when the number of white blood cells is reduced, it becomes very serious. There are five types of leukocytes.

Neutrophils

Neutrophils, or granulocytes, are white blood cells that attack the infection before other white blood cells. They are the most numerous of all leukocytes. When bacteria are found, neutrophils will surround the bacteria and kill it, often dying in the process.

Monocytes

The monocytes' primary purpose is to help with immune defense and rebuild damaged tissue. They also produce proteins for the body and antigens, which stimulate antibody production.

Eosinophils

Eosinophils are white blood cells that protect the body by killing and swallowing bacteria. If the eosinophil cannot enlarge enough to engulf the bacteria, it will attach itself and kill the organism.

Basophils

Basophils increase their numbers when the body has an infection, accumulating at the site of infection. They discharge serotonins and histamines to help increase blood flow and decrease inflammation.

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are primarily responsible for helping the body's immune system. They consist of B and T cells. B cells release antibodies into the body's fluids, while T cells directly attack viruses.

References

• Immune Central
• Human Monocytes
• Multiple Sclerosis

Resources

• American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders
• Basophils