What the chief leukocytes?
1). Neutrophils
* Most abundant leukocytes (50-70% of total WBC count)
* First line of defense against bacterial and fungal infections
* Short lifespan (12-24 hours)
* Phagocytic and release antimicrobial substances
2). Lymphocytes
* Involved in immune response
* B lymphocytes produce antibodies
* T lymphocytes mediate cell-mediated immunity
* Long-lived cells (several years)
3). Monocytes
* Phagocytic cells
* Differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells
* Play a role in inflammation and tissue repair
4). Eosinophils
* Involved in defense against parasitic infections
* Release toxic substances that can damage parasites
* Also involved in allergic reactions
5). Basophils
* Least abundant leukocytes (less than 1% of total WBC count)
* Involved in allergic reactions and inflammation
* Release histamine and other inflammatory mediators
6). Platelets
* Not technically leukocytes, but are included here because they play a role in the immune response
* Involved in blood clotting and wound healing
* Release factors that can activate inflammation and attract immune cells