Most active phagocytic white blood cells are :

Options

A. Lymphocytes and macrophages
B. Neutrophils and eosinophils
C. Eosinophils and lymphocytes
D. Neutrophils and monocytes

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding White Blood Cells (WBCs):** White blood cells, or leukocytes, are crucial components of the immune system. They help protect the body against infections and foreign invaders.

2. **Identifying Phagocytic Cells:** Phagocytic cells are specialized WBCs that can engulf and digest pathogens through a process called phagocytosis. The main types of phagocytic cells include neutrophils and monocytes.

3. **Evaluating the Options:**
- **Lymphocytes and Macrophages:** Lymphocytes are primarily involved in adaptive immunity, while macrophages are a type of monocyte that also participates in phagocytosis but is not the most active.
- **Neutrophils and Eosinophils:** Neutrophils are indeed phagocytic, but eosinophils are more involved in combating parasitic infections and allergic reactions rather than phagocytosis.
- **Eosinophils and Lymphocytes:** Neither of these is primarily phagocytic.
- **Neutrophils and Monocytes:** Both of these cell types are highly active in phagocytosis.

4. **Conclusion:** The most active phagocytic white blood cells are neutrophils and monocytes. Therefore, the correct answer is **D, Neutrophils and Monocytes.**

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