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White blood cells

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White blood cells

White blood cells protect the body against infection. Types of white blood cells include neutrophils, banded neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils.

Each type of white blood cell plays a different role in protecting the body. The numbers of each type of white blood cells give important information about the immune system. Too many or too few of the different types of white blood cells can be a sign of an infection, an allergic or toxic reaction to medicines or chemicals, and many conditions, such as leukemia.

Current as of: April 11, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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