Final answer:
Abscess formation is largely driven by neutrophils, which are first responders and abundant phagocytes that play a critical role in the body's immune response by releasing toxins and phagocytizing pathogens to contain and fight infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The formation of an abscess is largely driven by a type of blood cell known as a neutrophil. These cells are first responders at the site of infection or trauma and are abundant phagocytes that represent 50-60 percent of all leukocytes. Neutrophils release toxins that kill or inhibit bacteria and fungi and are crucial in recruiting other immune cells to join the fight against infection. When these cells respond, they can lead to the accumulation of pus, which forms the characteristic abscess.
During infection, neutrophils exit the blood vessels and move to the site of infection, a process known as emigration or diapedesis. An important characteristic of neutrophils is their ability to phagocytize pathogens, which helps in containing and fighting infections.
Without these abundant phagocytes, bacterial infections might go unrestricted in the blood, leading to serious complications. Therefore, neutrophils play a critical role in the body's defenses against infectious agents and are vital in the process of hemopoiesis that occurs in the bone marrow.