Neutrophil

The neutrophil is the most ubiquitous leukocyte in a normal blood smear, with about one neutrophil for every 1000 red blood cells. They are the smallest in size of the granulocytes. Neutrophils have a characteristic multilobed nucleus, with 3 to 5 lobes joined by slender strands of genetic material. The cytoplasm of neutrophils contains numerous purplish granules called azurophilic or primary granules that contain microbicidal agents. Neutrophils also contain smaller, secondary granules that house lysozyme, gelatinase, collagenase and many other enzymes.