Granulocytes

Definition

Granulocytes are a type of white blood cell characterized by the presence of granules in their cytoplasm. They play an essential role in the immune response and include neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Granulocytes are crucial for fighting infections, particularly bacterial and fungal.
2. Chemotherapeutic drugs can lead to granulocytopenia, a reduction in granulocyte count, increasing infection risk.
3. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of granulocytes and are first responders to microbial infection.
4. Eosinophils are involved in combating parasitic infections and have roles in allergic reactions.
5. Basophils release histamine during allergic responses and help mediate inflammatory reactions.

Review Questions

• What are the three main types of granulocytes?
• How do chemotherapeutic drugs affect granulocyte levels?
• What is the primary function of neutrophils?

Related terms

Neutropenia: A condition characterized by an abnormally low number of neutrophils.

Leukopenia: A decrease in the overall number of white blood cells.

Myelosuppression: Suppression of bone marrow activity, leading to reduced production of blood cells including granulocytes.