Leukocytes, also called white blood cells, are an important part of your body’s immune system. They are tiny cells that help protect you from infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and other harmful germs. Leukocytes also help fight diseases and heal injuries by responding to areas of damage in the body.
Where are leukocytes normally found?
Leukocytes are found throughout the body. They travel in the blood and lymphatic fluid, which are like highways that help them reach different tissues and organs. Leukocytes can also move into tissues when needed, especially in areas of infection or inflammation.
What do leukocytes do?
Leukocytes act as the body’s defense system. Their main job is to identify and destroy harmful invaders like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They also help clean up damaged cells and support healing after an injury. Some leukocytes can “remember” specific germs, so if you’re exposed to the same germ again, your body can respond more quickly and effectively.
What are the types of leukocytes?
There are several types of leukocytes, each with a specific job. The main types include:
- Neutrophils: These are the most common type of leukocyte. They are the first responders to infections and are very good at destroying bacteria and fungi.
- Lymphocytes: These include B cells and T cells, which help your body recognize and attack specific germs. Another type, called natural killer cells, helps destroy infected or abnormal cells.
- Monocytes: These cells clean up dead or damaged tissue and help fight infections by “eating” germs. When monocytes move into tissues, they can change into another type of cell called macrophages.
- Eosinophils: These cells help control allergic reactions and fight certain parasites.
- Basophils: These cells are involved in allergic reactions and help the body respond to inflammation.
What types of medical conditions are associated with leukocytes?
Leukocytes can be affected by many different medical conditions. Some examples include:
- Infections: When you have an infection, your body may produce more leukocytes to fight it, which can be seen in a blood test as a high white blood cell count.
- Allergic reactions: Conditions like asthma or allergies may involve increased activity of certain leukocytes, like eosinophils and basophils.
- Autoimmune diseases: In conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, leukocytes may mistakenly attack healthy tissues.
- Leukemia: This is a type of cancer that starts in the bone marrow and causes an abnormal increase in leukocytes.
- Low leukocyte levels (leukopenia): This can happen in conditions like certain infections, immune deficiencies, or as a side effect of treatments like chemotherapy, making the body more vulnerable to infections.