EOSINOPHIL Meaning and
Definition
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Eosinophil is a noun that refers to a type of white blood cell, which is a key component of the immune system in humans and other mammals. It is derived from the Greek words "eosin," meaning "dawn" or "rosy," and "philos," meaning "loving" or "attracting," describing its ability to be stained with the red eosin dye.
Eosinophils are characterized by their distinctive granules, which contain certain proteins and enzymes that are involved in their various functions. These cells are produced in the bone marrow and are primarily involved in the body's response to parasitic infections and allergic reactions. They play a crucial role in the defense against certain parasites, such as helminths (worms), by releasing toxic substances that can kill these organisms.
In allergic reactions, eosinophils are attracted to sites of inflammation where they release additional molecules that contribute to the inflammatory response. This accumulation of eosinophils can cause damage to healthy tissues and is associated with conditions like asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis.
In addition to their role in immune responses, eosinophils are also known to participate in tissue repair and the modulation of immune reactions. They contribute to the resolution of inflammation by clearing debris and promoting tissue healing.
Eosinophils are typically identified and quantified through laboratory blood tests, where their count can indicate certain diseases and conditions. A higher-than-normal eosinophil count, for instance, may suggest the presence of allergies, parasitic infections, or certain blood disorders. Conversely, a lower eosinophil count can be associated with immune deficiencies or the administration of certain medications.
Common Misspellings for EOSINOPHIL
Etymology of EOSINOPHIL
The word "eosinophil" has its roots in Greek. It consists of two parts: "eosin" and "phil".
"Eosin" comes from the Greek word "eos", which means "dawn" or "rose-colored". Eosin is also the name of a red dye used in laboratories to stain tissues for microscopic examination.
"Phil" is derived from the Greek word "philos", which means "loving" or "attraction". It is often used to refer to a particular type of white blood cell that has an affinity for eosin dye and stains red or pink when examined under a microscope. These cells were thus named "eosinophil" due to their affinity for eosin stain.
Similar spelling words for EOSINOPHIL
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