Eosinophils
Eosinophils
Eosinophils (pronounced: ee-oh-sin-oh-fils) are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the body's immune system. They are produced in the bone marrow and are found in the blood and tissue throughout the body.
Etymology
The term "eosinophil" is derived from the Greek words "eos" meaning "dawn" and "philos" meaning "loving". This is because eosinophils stain a bright red color when viewed under a microscope using a dye called eosin, which is reminiscent of the color of dawn.
Function
Eosinophils are primarily involved in the body's defense against parasitic infections. They also play a role in the inflammatory response, particularly in conditions such as asthma and allergies. Eosinophils contain granules filled with chemicals that can kill cells and contribute to inflammation.
Related Terms
- Basophils: Another type of white blood cell that, like eosinophils, is involved in the inflammatory response.
- Neutrophils: The most common type of white blood cell, which plays a key role in the body's defense against bacterial infections.
- Leukocytes: The scientific term for white blood cells, which includes eosinophils, basophils, and neutrophils.
- Eosinophilia: A condition characterized by an abnormally high number of eosinophils in the blood or tissues.
- Eosinophilic esophagitis: A chronic immune system disease in which eosinophils build up in the esophagus.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Eosinophils
- Wikipedia's article - Eosinophils
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