Microphagocytes

Microphagocytes are a type of phagocytic cell found in the blood. They are primarily composed of neutrophils and eosinophils. These cells are part of the innate immune system, meaning they provide a rapid, non-specific defense against pathogens. Their role is to engulf and digest foreign particles, such as bacteria and cellular debris, through a process called phagocytosis. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are typically the first responders to sites of infection. Eosinophils are involved in combating parasitic infections and play a role in allergic reactions. Microphagocytes circulate in the bloodstream and can migrate to tissues when an inflammatory response is triggered. Their ability to engulf and destroy harmful substances is crucial for maintaining health and preventing the spread of disease. They are distinct from larger phagocytic cells like macrophages, which are found in tissues rather than circulating in the blood. The term "microphagocyte" emphasizes their smaller size compared to macrophages and their primary location in the bloodstream.