Immune System Phagocytes

Basophil

A cell that is capable of ingesting forgein molecules and producing histamine and heparin. Often associated with allergies and asthma.

Eosinphil

A phagocyte that kills parasitic worms.

Monocyte

Cheif phagocytes found in the blood. Created in the bone marrow, and circulate the blood until they reach the organs, and are called Macrophages.

Mast Cell

Found in connective tissues and mucous membranes. This cell regulates the inflammatory response, produces histame, and are associated with allergies.

Macrophage

Found in the organs, and are long lived. This type of cell acts as a scavenger, ridding the body of unwanted material. Also releases interleukin and interferon and are antigen-presenting cells to the lymphocytes.

Dendritic Cell

Found in tissues that are in contact with the external environment (ex. - skin). They present antigens to T cells.

Neutrophil

Function to kill bacteria. They patrol the capillaries and die after digesting bacteria.

Pathogen

Non-self molecules that phagocytes destroy.

Phagocytes

The group of cells in the immune system that engulf or absorb pathogens.