Final answer:
The primary leukocyte present during acute inflammation is the neutrophil, not the eosinophil. Neutrophils are abundant and swiftly respond to infection through phagocytosis. Eosinophils are involved in allergic responses and defense against parasites, and they help facilitate the inflammation process but are not the dominant cells in acute inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of acute inflammation, the primary type of leukocyte that you can expect to be present is the neutrophil. Neutrophils are the most abundant leukocytes and play a critical role by being one of the first responders to sites of infection, where they carry out phagocytosis to engulf and digest pathogens. Although eosinophils do play a role in the immune response, particularly involved in the defense against parasites (such as helminthes) and in allergic reactions, they are not the dominant leukocyte present during the initial phase of acute inflammation. Instead, eosinophils work alongside other cells of the immune system and are most known for their abilities to produce inflammatory mediators that recruit more leukocytes into the area.
Eosinophils, with their distinctive red to orange granules and typically two-to-three-lobed nucleus, make up about 2-4 percent of the total leukocyte count. They are part of a group known as granular leukocytes, which also includes basophils and neutrophils. Basophils and mast cells, in particular, are responsible for releasing chemicals such as histamine that contribute to the inflammation process.
Therefore, while eosinophils do have an involvement in inflammation, they are not the main type of leukocyte associated with acute inflammation responses—this role is predominantly filled by neutrophils.