Which cells are granulocytes among leukocytes?

• A. Eosinophils, Basophils, Neutrophils.
• B. B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes.
• C. Monocytes and lymphocytes.
• D. Red blood cells and platelets.

Answer: (A)

Granulocytes are a subset of white blood cells that contain visible cytoplasmic granules when stained. The three cells that fit this description are neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. Neutrophils are the most abundant leukocytes and act as first responders in bacterial infection, with a multilobed nucleus. Eosinophils have granules that help combat parasites and modulate allergic responses. Basophils release inflammatory mediators like histamine through their granules. These cytoplasmic granules are the hallmark that makes them granulocytes.

In contrast, lymphocytes and monocytes are considered agranulocytes because they do not have prominent cytoplasmic granules on standard stains. Red blood cells and platelets are not leukocytes at all.