Granulocytes are immune cells characterized by the presence of granules inside them. They are produced in the bone marrow, found in the bloodstream, and comprise neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils.
The granules in these cells contain toxic substances capable of degrading microorganisms foreign to the body.
The number of granulocytes in the blood can be assessed through a complete blood count. Monitoring this quantity is important during cancer treatment, as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and molecular targeting drugs can reduce the number of these cells in the blood.
There are hematological neoplasms, such as leukemias, that can cause a significant increase in granulocytes in the bloodstream, a condition known as granulocytosis.
Other immune cells do not have granules inside them and are called agranulocytes. They include lymphocytes and monocytes.
