Leukocytes (white blood cells). Types of white blood cells. Defensive properties of neutrophils and macrophages.
Explains the body's protective white-cell system and the six types of leukocytes in blood, with their approximate blood percentages listed. Covers how neutrophils and monocytes, which become tissue macrophages, attack invaders through chemotaxis and phagocytosis, and what makes a particle more or less likely to be engulfed. Ends with the life spans of granulocytes, monocytes and lymphocytes.
Topic 14 of 17 in the MU Pleven syllabus for Physiology (Medicine, Year 2). The free AceMed note covers it in 5 sections, about 861 words (6 min of reading), with 20 flashcards.
In this note
Topic 14. Leukocytes (white blood cells). Types of white blood cells. Defensive properties of neutrophils and macrophages.
Leukocytes (White Blood Cells)
Types of White Blood Cells
Neutrophils and Macrophages Defend against Infections
Life Span of the White Blood Cells
Topic 14. Leukocytes (white blood cells). Types of white blood cells. Defensive properties of neutrophils and macrophages.
Our bodies are exposed continually to bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, all of which occur normally and to varying degrees in the skin, the mouth, the respiratory passageways, the intestinal tract, the lining membranes of the eyes, and even the urinary tract. Many of these infectious agents are capable of causing serious abnormal physiologic function or even death if they invade the deeper tissues. In addition, we are exposed intermittently to other highly infectious bacteria and viruses besides those that are normally present, and these can cause acute lethal diseases such as pneumonia, streptococcal infection, and typhoid fever. Our bodies have a special system for combating the different infectious and toxic agents. This system is composed of blood leukocytes (white blood cells) and tissue cells derived from leukocytes. These cells work together in two ways to prevent disease: (1) by actually destroying invading bacteria or viruses by phagocytosis and (2) by forming antibodies and sensitized lymphocytes, which may destroy or inactivate the invader.
Continue reading free
The whole note, all 5 sections, is free with an AceMed account, with its 20 flashcards. Premium adds flashcard recall, highlights and Ask AI.
