Final answer:
Healthy adults should have less than one percent of basophils in their total leukocyte count. These cells, which are involved in inflammatory responses and can be identified by their dark blue-staining granules, are important in the body's immune function.
Step-by-step explanation:
In healthy adults, basophils should comprise less than one percent of the total leukocyte count. Basophils, which are slightly smaller than neutrophils and eosinophils, are important in the body's immune responses such as inflamatory response. They can be identified by their large granules that take up a dark blue stain, making it challenging to see their two-lobed nucleus.
Basophils play a crucial role in intensifying inflammatory responses, sharing this trait with mast cells. It's crucial to note that high counts of basophils in the blood can be indicative of conditions like allergies, parasitic infections, and hypothyroidism. Conversely, low counts may also have clinical significance.