Which leukocytes are primarily responsible for fighting parasitic infections?

Eosinophils are the type of leukocytes primarily responsible for combating parasitic infections. They play a critical role in the immune system, particularly in response to parasites such as helminths (worms) and certain protozoa. Upon activation, eosinophils release cytotoxic granules containing enzymes and proteins that help to damage and eliminate these larger parasites that cannot be phagocytized effectively by other cells. In addition to their action against parasites, eosinophils are also involved in allergic reactions and the inflammatory response.

Other leukocytes, while important in various aspects of the immune response, do not specifically target parasitic infections to the same extent as eosinophils. Basophils, for example, are primarily involved in inflammatory responses and allergic reactions by releasing histamine. Neutrophils are typically the first responders to bacterial infections and focus on engulfing and destroying pathogens through phagocytosis. Lymphocytes, which include T cells and B cells, play essential roles in the adaptive immune response, with T cells targeting infected or cancerous cells, and B cells producing antibodies.