White blood cells

White Blood Cells (Leukocytes)

White blood cells (Leukocytes) are the cells of the immune system that are involved in protecting the body against both infectious disease and foreign invaders.

Pronunciation

White blood cells: /ˈwaɪt ˈblʌd sɛlz/

Leukocytes: /ˈluːkəˌsaɪts/

Etymology

The term "white blood cell" is derived from the physical appearance of the cells after centrifugation. White blood cells are not literally white; they are actually colorless.

"Leukocytes" is derived from the Greek words "leukos" (meaning white) and "kytos" (meaning cell).

Types of White Blood Cells

White blood cells are divided into five main types:

• Neutrophils
• Lymphocytes
• Monocytes
• Eosinophils
• Basophils

Each of these types of cells carries out a specific role in the immune system.

Function

White blood cells are an essential part of the immune system. They help the body fight off infections by attacking bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that invade the body. They also play a role in inflammation, allergies, and wound healing.

Related Terms

• Immune System
• Infection
• Inflammation
• Allergies
• Wound Healing

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on White blood cells
• Wikipedia's article - White blood cells

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