Final answer:
Neutrophils are phagocytic cells that respond to infections by producing cytokines that destroy and remove pathogens. They are efficient at phagocytizing bacteria, and abnormally high neutrophil counts indicate infection or inflammation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Neutrophils are phagocytic cells that are the first responders to infection. They produce large quantities of cytokines, which cause pathogen destruction and removal from the body. Neutrophils are efficient phagocytes with a preference for bacteria, and their granules include lysozyme, oxidants, and defensins that aid in bacterial cell wall lysis and pathogen destruction. Abnormally high neutrophil counts indicate infection or inflammation, while low counts may increase susceptibility to infection.