Neutrophile

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Neutrophil

Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cells in most mammals. They form an essential part of the innate immune system. Their functions vary in different animals.

Structure[edit | edit source]

Neutrophils are a type of phagocyte and are normally found in the bloodstream. They are the predominant cells in pus, accounting for its whitish/yellowish appearance.

Function[edit | edit source]

Neutrophils are recruited to the site of injury within minutes following trauma by the process of chemotaxis. They are the hallmark of acute inflammation.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

In conditions causing neutropenia, there is an abnormally low concentration of neutrophils in the blood. This condition reduces the body's ability to fight off infection. Conversely, in neutrophilia, there is an abnormally high concentration of neutrophils in the blood, which can be an indication of acute inflammation.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External links[edit | edit source]

  • Neutrophils at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
Neutrophile Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD