Types of Blood Cells

Red Blood Cells

White Blood Cells

Platelets

Also called erythrocytes

They are produced in the bone marrow.

Also called leukocytes

They are cells that exist in the blood, the lymphatic system, & tissues & are an important part of the
body’s natural defence (immune) system.

Also called thrombocytes

They are actually tiny cell fragments that circulate in blood & are essential for normal blood clotting.

They contain haemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen throughout the body.

There are five different types of WBCs & each has a different function.

Dysfunction of platelets, you may be at an increased risk of excessive bleeding & bruising.

The typical lifespan of an RBC is 120 days.

WBCs are present in the blood at relatively stable numbers.

An excess of platelets (thrombocytosis) can cause excessive clotting.

Types of white blood cells (leukocytes)

Monocytes. They have a longer lifespan than many white blood cells and help to break down
bacteria.

Lymphocytes. They create antibodies to fight against bacteria, viruses, and other harmful invaders.

Neutrophils. They kill and digest bacteria and fungi. They are the most numerous types of white
blood cell and your first line of defence when infection strikes.

Basophils. These cells seem to sound an alarm when infectious agents invade your blood. They
secrete chemicals such as histamine, a marker of allergic disease, that help control the body’s
immune response.

Eosinophils. They attack and kill parasites and cancer cells, and help with allergic responses.