Segmented neutrophils (commonly referred to as “segs”) make up the majority of circulating white blood cells (roughly 50-70%).
They are the first line of defense in fighting bacterial infections through phagocytosis.
Appearance
Segmented neutrophils have a pink cytoplasm with fine specific granules. The nucleus is heavily clumped with thin filaments connecting usually 2-5 lobes. Chromatin is heavily clumped.
Lookalikes
Eosinophils can look like neutrophils, especially if the staining is poor. Neutrophils with toxic granulation can also mimic the larger granules seen in eosinophils. However, eosinophil granules are more coarse with a reddish-orange color.
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