Anatomy & Physiology: The Unity of Form and Function, 7th Edition

Published by McGraw-Hill Education
ISBN 10: 0073403717
ISBN 13: 978-0-07340-371-7

Chapter 18 - Section 18.4 - Leukocytes - Before You Go On - Page 696: 21

Answer

Myeloblasts are immature precursor cells of granulocytes, which are a type of white blood cell (WBC) characterized by their granulated cytoplasm. If myeloblasts began multiplying out of control while their subsequent development remained normal, it would lead to an overproduction of granulocytes, specifically neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. Monocytes, another type of WBC that develops from a different precursor (monoblasts), would not be produced in excess. Here's how this scenario would play out: 1. **Neutrophils:** Neutrophils are a type of granulocyte that plays a central role in the body's defense against bacterial infections. They are the most abundant type of WBC and are known for their rapid response to infections. If myeloblasts were overproducing granulocytes, there would likely be an excess of neutrophils, potentially leading to a condition called neutrophilic leukocytosis. 2. **Eosinophils:** Eosinophils are another type of granulocyte involved in immune responses against parasitic infections and allergic reactions. An overproduction of myeloblasts could lead to an excess of eosinophils, resulting in eosinophilia. 3. **Basophils:** Basophils are granulocytes that release histamine and other inflammatory substances in response to allergic reactions. If myeloblasts were multiplying uncontrollably, an increased number of basophils could be produced, leading to basophilia. 4. **Monocytes:** Monocytes are agranulocytes that mature into macrophages when they enter tissues. Unlike granulocytes, which develop from myeloblasts, monocytes develop from monoblasts. Therefore, an overproduction of myeloblasts would not directly affect the production of monocytes. It's worth noting that an abnormal overproduction of any type of blood cell can be a sign of underlying medical conditions, including certain types of leukemia or myeloproliferative disorders. In a healthy individual, the production of blood cells is carefully regulated to maintain the balance needed for proper immune function and overall health. If you suspect any abnormal changes in your blood cell counts, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Work Step by Step

Myeloblasts are immature precursor cells of granulocytes, which are a type of white blood cell (WBC) characterized by their granulated cytoplasm. If myeloblasts began multiplying out of control while their subsequent development remained normal, it would lead to an overproduction of granulocytes, specifically neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. Monocytes, another type of WBC that develops from a different precursor (monoblasts), would not be produced in excess. Here's how this scenario would play out: 1. **Neutrophils:** Neutrophils are a type of granulocyte that plays a central role in the body's defense against bacterial infections. They are the most abundant type of WBC and are known for their rapid response to infections. If myeloblasts were overproducing granulocytes, there would likely be an excess of neutrophils, potentially leading to a condition called neutrophilic leukocytosis. 2. **Eosinophils:** Eosinophils are another type of granulocyte involved in immune responses against parasitic infections and allergic reactions. An overproduction of myeloblasts could lead to an excess of eosinophils, resulting in eosinophilia. 3. **Basophils:** Basophils are granulocytes that release histamine and other inflammatory substances in response to allergic reactions. If myeloblasts were multiplying uncontrollably, an increased number of basophils could be produced, leading to basophilia. 4. **Monocytes:** Monocytes are agranulocytes that mature into macrophages when they enter tissues. Unlike granulocytes, which develop from myeloblasts, monocytes develop from monoblasts. Therefore, an overproduction of myeloblasts would not directly affect the production of monocytes. It's worth noting that an abnormal overproduction of any type of blood cell can be a sign of underlying medical conditions, including certain types of leukemia or myeloproliferative disorders. In a healthy individual, the production of blood cells is carefully regulated to maintain the balance needed for proper immune function and overall health. If you suspect any abnormal changes in your blood cell counts, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
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