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Through the microscope, you notice a very large leukocyte with a U-shaped nucleus but no granules. What type of leukocyte have you observed?

-basophil
-lymphocyte
-monocyte
-neutrophil

User Ehftwelve
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

A large leukocyte with a U-shaped nucleus and no visible granules is indicative of a monocyte, which is an agranular leukocyte.

Step-by-step explanation:

Identifying Leukocytes Through a Microscope

When observing a leukocyte through a microscope, identifying its characteristics such as the presence of granules and the shape of its nucleus is crucial in determining its type. A large leukocyte with a U-shaped nucleus and no visible granules is characteristic of a monocyte. Monocytes are part of the agranular leukocytes category and are known for their phagocytic abilities as they mature into macrophages. In contrast, neutrophils, which are granular leukocytes, have a nucleus with two to five lobes and light lilac-stained granules. Basophils, another type of granular leukocytes, contain large granules that stain dark blue and typically have a two-lobed nucleus. Consequently, the leukocyte observed is most likely a monocyte.

User Yasser Mas
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