Final answer:
Eosinophils are the type of leukocyte that defends against helminthic infections by releasing chemicals to damage or kill the parasites. They also play a role in inflammation and allergic responses. The correct option is 1) Eosinophils
Step-by-step explanation:
Type of Leukocyte Defending against Helminthic Infections
The type of leukocyte that defends against helminthic (worm) infections is the eosinophil. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell part of the body's immune system, specifically geared towards fighting larger parasites such as helminths.
Upon encountering these parasites, eosinophils release their granules containing potent chemicals that can damage or kill the parasites. Eosinophils are also involved in inflammation and allergic responses, which is why their levels can elevate in the presence of an allergic reaction or an asthma attack, aside from parasitic infections.
An increased eosinophil count is often one of the tell-tale signs of helminthic infection. This makes them crucial indicators in medical diagnoses of such conditions, and understanding their role is important for health professionals dealing with parasitic infestations.
As such, if a person is suspected of having a helminthic infection, one of the tests a doctor might order is a blood test to measure the eosinophil levels. The correct option is 1) Eosinophils