Neutrophils – 2
The upper figure shows a cell that is slightly larger than the surrounding red blood cells. Its cytoplasm is relatively clear, and distinct granules are not readily visible. This is mainly because the granules are very small and stain similarly to the cytoplasm.
The nucleus is C-shaped and contains clumps of condensed chromatin. Hover the cursor over the image to highlight the nucleus.
This is a band neutrophil, a relatively immature form of neutrophil. Band neutrophils are normally present in small numbers in the circulating blood. As the cell matures, the nucleus becomes progressively constricted and eventually develops the segmented appearance characteristic of a mature neutrophil.
The lower figure shows a neutrophil with a nuclear constriction (arrow). Its cytoplasm contains small pinkish granules. The nuclear constriction represents an intermediate stage in the development of nuclear segmentation, as the cell progresses toward the mature segmented form.
Blood smear. Staining: Leishman. Large magnification.
Blood smear. Staining: Leishman. Large magnification.