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Make up the majority of circulating WBCs (roughly 50-70%).

First line of defense in fighting bacterial infections through phagocytosis.

Fine secondary granules stain the cytoplasm pink. Nucleus is separated into lobes, staining dark purple with clumpy chromatin.

Second most common circulating WBC (roughly 20-40%).

Composed of three types: T Cells, B Cells, NK (natural killer) cells. Circulating lymphocytes are resting and further differentiate when stimulated.

Important in fighting viral infections.

Make up between 2-10% of circulating WBCs.

Largest of the circulating WBCs. Cytoplasm stains a grayish blue and has a “ground glass” appearance due to numerous fine purplish granules. Most like of the WBCs to have vacuoles. Nucleus is often irregularly shaped with folds or indents. Chromatin is lacy.

Phagocytize foreign materials and aid in removal of dead cells and debris.

Make up <5% of circulating WBCs.

Large reddish-orange granules. Typically have bilobed nucleus with dark purple clumpy chromatin.

Important in fighting parasitic infections. Involved in allergic reactions.

Least common circulating WBC (<2%).

Large dark purple granules fill the cell and often overlap the nucleus.

Function similar to eosinophils with roles allergic reactions and in fighting parasitic infections.

Cytoplasm is scant and basophilic. Usually agranular. Nucleus contains visible nucleoli with fine chromatin.

Presence in peripheral blood usually indicates a type of leukemia.