White blood cells (WBCs), also called leukocytes, are an essential part of your body’s immune system. Their main job is to defend you against infections, combat harmful organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites, and help regulate inflammation and allergic reactions. Unlike red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body, white blood cells are …
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Germinal centers are specialized structures within lymphoid tissues where B cells (a type of white blood cell) mature and differentiate. These centers play an important role in the body’s immune response by helping train B cells to produce antibodies that target specific pathogens. Where are germinal centers normally found? Germinal centers are typically found within …
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Lymphoblasts are immature cells that develop into lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that is integral to the immune system. They are part of the body’s adaptive immune response, responsible for fighting infections and providing long-term immunity. Where are lymphoblasts normally found? Lymphoblasts are primarily found in the bone marrow, the soft, spongy center …
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In pathology, the term “blasts” refers to immature cells in the early stages of development into mature cells. These cells are typically found in the bone marrow, which is part of the normal process of blood cell formation known as hematopoiesis. Blasts can develop into various types of blood cells, such as red blood cells, white …
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CD45 is a protein found on the surface of most cells in the immune system, including white blood cells (also called leukocytes). CD45 helps these immune cells communicate and respond appropriately to infections and inflammation. Why do pathologists test for CD45? Pathologists test for CD45 to help determine if cells seen in a tissue sample …
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B cells are a type of white blood cell that play a central role in the body’s immune system. Their primary role is to help protect you from infections by recognizing harmful substances, such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins, and responding to them. In humans, they develop and mature in the bone marrow. What do …
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Inflammation is your body’s natural defense mechanism against injury, irritation, or infection. It is a process in which your immune system sends specialized cells, proteins, and chemical signals to an affected area to protect your body and aid in its healing. Although inflammation is usually beneficial and necessary, it can sometimes cause discomfort or harm …
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