A blood count of a healthy person reveals that the neutrophils are the most numerous cells among the white blood cells. An analysis of tissue sectons with a light microscope shows that these leukocites are frequently found in small amounts in connective tissues. Their lifespan in normal connective tissue is usually short (about 12 hours) and they are constantly replaced by new neutrophils that arrive from the blood.
Neutrophils are formed in the hematopoietic marrow from precursor cells and undergo several stages during their development. In one of the last stages, they are classified as young neutrophils and are also called blood band cells or bands. Their nucleus tipically displays the shape the letter “C”.
Most band cells continue their development and one of the most notable features of the final stages of their differentiation is the appearance of nuclear lobules. The nucleus has two or more lobules joined by thin strands of chromatin. Neutrophils with lobulated nuclei are also called called “segmented neutrophils” or “adult neutrophiles”. They are the predominant form of leukocytes in the circulating blood although small amounts of young neutrophils (bands) are also present.
Neutrophils measure 10-15 µm in diameter and the best way to recognize them is looking for the lobulated nuclei of mature cells or lobulated or in form of the letter “C” in younger neutrophils. Their cytoplasm is lightly stained.
After placing the cursor or clicking on the figure, observe:
Segmented neutrophils – highkighted in red.
Plasmocytes become highlighted in green.
Inflammatory infiltrate. Staining: HE. Magnification: high.
