Overview and Clinical Significance

Basophils are a type of white blood cell (WBC) that play a role in immune response, inflammation, and allergic reactions. They are part of the body's innate immune system and contain granules filled with histamine, heparin, and cytokines, which help mediate inflammatory processes.

Clinical Significance

• Allergic Reactions: Basophils release histamine, contributing to symptoms like itching, swelling, and airway constriction in conditions such as asthma and anaphylaxis.
• Parasitic Infections: They help combat helminth (worm) infections by releasing inflammatory mediators.
• Inflammatory Disorders: Elevated basophil levels (basophilia) may indicate chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or myeloproliferative disorders.
• Blood Clot Prevention: Basophils release heparin, an anticoagulant that prevents excessive blood clotting.
• Cancer & Hematologic Conditions: Abnormal basophil counts can be associated with leukemia, lymphoma, and bone marrow disorders.

Basophils are a small but essential component of the immune system, influencing inflammatory responses, allergic reactions, and hematologic health. Their dysregulation can contribute to various immune and blood-related disorders.

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