Differences between RBC and WBC

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Red blood cells vs. white blood cells[edit]

Red blood cells (RBCs), or erythrocytes, and white blood cells (WBCs), or leukocytes, are the primary cellular components of blood, each with distinct functions.[1][2] Both originate from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow.[3][4] RBCs are the most numerous type of blood cell and are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and carrying carbon dioxide back to the lungs to be exhaled.[5] WBCs are a critical part of the immune system, defending the body against infectious diseases and foreign substances.

Comparison Table[edit]

Category Red blood cells (RBCs) White blood cells (WBCs)
Primary Function Transport oxygen and carbon dioxide.[5] Part of the immune system; fight infection and disease.
Alternate Name Erythrocyte.[3] Leukocyte.
Presence of Nucleus Absent in mature cells to maximize space for hemoglobin.[3] Present.
Appearance Biconcave disc shape, red color due to hemoglobin.[5] Irregular shape, colorless.
Size (Diameter) Approximately 6–8 µm. [3] Larger than RBCs, varies by type (approx. 12–17 µm).
Abundance 4.3–5.9 million cells/mm³ (male); 3.5–5.5 million cells/mm³ (female). 4,500–11,000 cells/mm³.
Lifespan Approximately 100–120 days. Varies by type,[3] from a few hours to several years.
Types One type. Five main types: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils.
Venn diagram for Differences between RBC and WBC
Venn diagram comparing Differences between RBC and WBC


Subtypes of white blood cells[edit]

Unlike red blood cells, which are uniform, white blood cells are categorized into five main types, which can be broadly classified as either granulocytes or agranulocytes.

Granulocytes[edit]

Granulocytes contain granules in their cytoplasm and have a multi-lobed nucleus. They include:

  • **Neutrophils:** The most abundant type of WBC, they are typically the first responders to bacterial or fungal infections.
  • **Eosinophils:** These cells are involved in combating parasitic infections and play a role in allergic reactions.
  • **Basophils:** The least common type, they are involved in allergic responses by releasing substances like histamine.

Agranulocytes[edit]

Agranulocytes lack visible granules and have a round, non-lobed nucleus. They include:

  • **Lymphocytes:** These are crucial for the adaptive immune system. They include B cells, which produce antibodies; T cells, which recognize and remove infected cells; and natural killer cells that can kill viral and cancerous cells.
  • **Monocytes:** These are the largest type of WBC. They can differentiate into macrophages, which engulf and break down pathogens and cellular debris.

= References =[4][edit]

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References[edit]

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