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Phagocytosis

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A phagocyte is a cell that is able to engulf and digest bacteria, protozoa, other microbes and cell debris. Phagocytosis is the act of engulfment and digestion.

Phagocytes include white blood cells such as neutrophils and macrophages.

Phagocytosis is usually the prelude to destruction of the contents of the phagosome - phagocytic vacuole.

Defects in phagocytosis can occur at any stage e.g.:

  • reduced opsonin levels
  • cellular dysfunction e.g. diabetes
  • destructive enzyme deficiency or dysfunction e.g. chronic granulomatous disease
  • mixed defect e.g. Chediak-Higashi syndrome

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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