Word parts
bas/o base-phil attracted to
What it means
Basophils make up less than about 1% of white blood cells. They carry granules of histamine and heparin. When they meet an allergen, they release these, which widens blood vessels and causes the itching, swelling and redness of an allergic reaction. They are named for taking up a basic (alkaline) stain.
At a glance
| Spanish | basófilo |
|---|---|
| Also written | basophils |
Related terms
allergy
A reaction of the immune system to a substance that is harmless to most people.
white blood cell
A blood cell that is part of the immune system and helps the body fight infection and other foreign material.
eosinophil
A type of white blood cell that fights parasites and takes part in allergic reactions.