leucocyte
A white blood cell (WBC), or leukocyte, is a type of blood cell that is part of the immune system and helps protect the body against infections, foreign substances, and abnormal cells.
White blood cells (WBCs), also called leukocytes, are immune system cells found in the blood and lymphatic tissues. They help defend the body against infections, identify and respond to foreign substances, remove damaged cells, and regulate immune responses. White blood cells are produced from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow and develop into several specialized types, including granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils), lymphocytes (B cells, T cells, and natural killer cells), and monocytes. Each type performs different functions, such as destroying microorganisms, producing antibodies, coordinating immune activity, and removing unwanted material through processes such as phagocytosis. Abnormal white blood cell numbers or function may occur in infections, immune disorders, inflammation, and blood cancers such as leukemia.
• Also called leukocytes or WBCs • Important cells of the immune system • Produced mainly in the bone marrow • Help protect the body from infections and harmful substances • Major types include granulocytes, lymphocytes, and monocytes • Granulocytes include neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils • Lymphocytes include B cells, T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells • Monocytes can develop into macrophages and help remove unwanted material through phagocytosis • Abnormal white blood cell levels may occur in infections, immune disorders, and leukemia
leucocyte