Using the 10X objective, identify white blood cells (leukocytes) with lobulated nuclei, the granulocytes.

• Note their size compared to red blood cells.
• The most abundant granulocytes are neutrophils (Figs. 12-6 and 12-7).
• Examine with the 40X objective the nuclei and the lightly stained cytoplasmic granules of several neutrophils; compare with the EM in Fig. 12-8.

How does the structure of neutrophils correspond with their major function?

Clinical note: A large accumulation of neutrophils, especially dead and dying neutrophils that have engulfed many bacteria, constitutes “pus.” Pus formation is a normal part of an infection that occurs within connective tissue or a tissue space.

Look for the other two types of granulocytes:

• Eosinophils and
• Basophils, named for staining properties of their cytoplasmic granules.
• These cells will be difficult to find because respectively they represent only 2-4% and <1% of the circulating leukocytes (Table 12-2).
• Study their structure in Figs. 12-9 and 12-10.

How do the functions of eosinophils and basophils differ from each other and from neutrophils?

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