Eosinophil

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Eosinocyte)

Eosinophil is a type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system. It is responsible for fighting off infections and diseases, particularly those caused by parasites. Eosinophils are also involved in the body's allergic responses and in inflammation.

Function[edit | edit source]

Eosinophils function by releasing chemicals that destroy invading cells. These chemicals include eosinophil peroxidase, ribonuclease, deoxyribonucleases, lipase, plasminogen, and major basic protein. These proteins are toxic to both parasite and host tissues. In instances of diseases such as asthma or hay fever, eosinophils can cause damage by releasing their toxic granule proteins into the tissues.

Production and Life Cycle[edit | edit source]

Eosinophils are produced in the bone marrow and then migrate to tissues throughout the body. When an infection or an allergic reaction occurs, the body produces more eosinophils to fight off the invaders. The life cycle of an eosinophil is typically 8–12 hours in the bloodstream and 8–12 days in tissue.

Diseases and Disorders[edit | edit source]

Eosinophils are implicated in numerous diseases and disorders. An elevated number of eosinophils can indicate a parasitic infection, an allergic reaction, or cancer. This condition is known as eosinophilia. Conversely, a low number of eosinophils in the blood is known as eosinopenia; it can occur in certain types of severe infections or stress.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Eosinophil Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD