Dictionary of Cancer Terms
View in Spanish: Leucocito polimorfonuclear
Polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PAH-lee-MOR-foh-NOO-klee-er LOO-koh-SITE)
A type of immune cell that has granules (small particles) with enzymes that are released during infections, allergic reactions, and asthma. Neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils are polymorphonuclear leukocytes. A polymorphonuclear leukocyte is a type of white blood cell. Also called granular leukocyte, granulocyte, and PMN.
Source: National Cancer Institute Dictionary of Cancer Terms, available at www.cancer.gov/dictionary.