You can recognize these white blood cells because they have a bilobed nucleus and red granules in the cytoplasm. A) neutrophil B) eosiniphil C) basophil D) monocyte
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B) eosinophil.
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that play a key role in the immune response, particularly in combating parasitic infections and modulating allergic reactions. These cells are characterized by their bilobed nucleus, which appears as two connected lobes. This feature helps differentiate eosinophils from other white blood cells.
The cytoplasm of eosinophils contains large, coarse granules that stain red or orange with eosin, a dye used in histology. These granules are filled with enzymes and proteins, such as major basic protein (MBP), which are involved in the destruction of parasites and the regulation of inflammatory responses. When eosinophils are activated, the granules are released into the surrounding tissue, contributing to inflammation and tissue damage, especially in allergic reactions like asthma or hay fever.
Eosinophils are part of the body’s defense against parasitic infections like those caused by worms. In addition to their role in immune defense, they also participate in inflammatory processes. In allergic reactions, eosinophils are recruited to sites of inflammation, where they release their granules in an attempt to fight the perceived threat, even though the actual threat (such as pollen or dust mites) might not be harmful.
While eosinophils are typically present in small numbers, their levels can increase significantly during allergic reactions or parasitic infections. An elevated eosinophil count is a common diagnostic feature in conditions like eosinophilic asthma, allergies, and certain types of infections. Understanding eosinophils’ structure and function is crucial for diagnosing and treating these conditions effectively.