Summary
Leukocytes including neutrophils, lymphocytes and macrophages that fight infection.
In depth
Neutrophils (most abundant, phagocytes), eosinophils (parasites), basophils (allergy), monocytes (become macrophages), lymphocytes (B, T, NK). Normal count is 4,000 to 11,000 per microlitre; raised counts suggest infection and very high counts may suggest leukaemia.
Granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils) have lobed nuclei and granules; agranulocytes (lymphocytes, monocytes) do not. Differential counts help diagnose infection types.
Example: eosinophils rise in parasitic infections and allergy.
Frequently asked questions
What is White Blood Cells?
Leukocytes including neutrophils, lymphocytes and macrophages that fight infection.
Which area of biology covers White Blood Cells, and how advanced is it?
White Blood Cells is one of the 52 topics in Immunology & Disease. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include HIV and AIDS, Innate Immunity, Inflammation.
Can you give an example of White Blood Cells?
HIV depletes CD4 T cells.
What should I learn before White Blood Cells?
White Blood Cells is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Immunology & Disease that pair well with it include Immune System, Viruses, Innate Immunity.
What topics are related to White Blood Cells?
The closest topics to White Blood Cells are HIV and AIDS, Innate Immunity, Inflammation, Antibody Classes. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand White Blood Cells?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for White Blood Cells. To practise the whole of Immunology & Disease, use the Immunology & Disease quiz.
How is White Blood Cells different from HIV and AIDS?
White Blood Cells: Leukocytes including neutrophils, lymphocytes and macrophages that fight infection. HIV and AIDS: HIV infects helper T cells; untreated infection depletes them, leaving the body vulnerable to opportunistic infections. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study White Blood Cells step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with HIV and AIDS and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Immunology & Disease quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.