Which white blood cells are primarily active in phagocytosis?

Neutrophils and monocytes play a central role in the process of phagocytosis, which is the method by which certain white blood cells engulf and digest pathogens and other foreign particles. Neutrophils are among the first responders to sites of infection or inflammation, rapidly migrating to engulf bacteria and debris. They are particularly effective in dealing with acute infections.

Monocytes, on the other hand, circulate in the bloodstream and can differentiate into macrophages once they migrate into tissues. Macrophages are highly efficient phagocytes that continue to engulf pathogens, dead cells, and other debris, and they also play a critical role in alerting the immune system to the presence of infection or injury.

Both neutrophils and monocytes are crucial in the innate immune response, utilizing phagocytosis to maintain tissue health and respond to infections, which underscores why this pair is identified as primarily active in phagocytosis.