In the mnemonic explanation, which WBC is described as 'dead or foreign tissue'?

In the mnemonic explanation, which WBC is described as 'dead or foreign tissue'?

• A. Monocytes
• B. Lymphocytes
• C. Eosinophils
• D. Basophils

Answer: (A)

The idea behind the descriptor is the cleanup role in tissues. Monocytes circulate in the blood and, when they move into tissues, they become macrophages. Macrophages are the primary scavengers that phagocytose dead cells, tissue debris, and foreign material. That “dead or foreign tissue” phrase points to this function, which is why monocytes are the correct choice. Other white blood cells have different main jobs: lymphocytes handle adaptive immunity; neutrophils are rapid responders to bacterial infections; eosinophils target parasites and participate in allergic responses; basophils release mediators of inflammation.

The idea behind the descriptor is the cleanup role in tissues. Monocytes circulate in the blood and, when they move into tissues, they become macrophages. Macrophages are the primary scavengers that phagocytose dead cells, tissue debris, and foreign material. That “dead or foreign tissue” phrase points to this function, which is why monocytes are the correct choice. Other white blood cells have different main jobs: lymphocytes handle adaptive immunity; neutrophils are rapid responders to bacterial infections; eosinophils target parasites and participate in allergic responses; basophils release mediators of inflammation.