Here are the five main types of white blood cells and their functions:
Neutrophils: 58%. They kill and digest bacteria and fungi ( called phagocytosis). They are the most numerous type of white blood cell and your first line of defense when infection strikes.
Lymphocytes: 4%. They create antibodies to defend against bacteria, viruses, and other potentially harmful invaders.
Monocytes: 4%. They have a longer lifespan in comparison with many other white blood cells and help to break down bacteria as well .
Eosinophils: 2%. They generally help to attack and kill parasites, destroy cancer cells, and play a role in allergic responses.
Basophils: 1%. These small cells function in allergic reactions. They release histamine, a marker of allergic disease, that helps control the body’s immune response, and heparin, that prevents clotting in the infected area so that the white blood cells can reach the bacteria.
