Neutrophilia

More than the normal number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell (specifically a form of granulocyte) filled with neutrally-staining granules, tiny sacs of enzymes that help the cell to kill and digest microorganisms it has engulfed by phagocytosis. The mature neutrophil has a segmented nucleus (it is called a seg or poly) while the immature neutrophil has band-shape nucleus (it is called a band). The neutrophil has a lifespan of about 3 days. Neutrophilia is a common finding with acute bacterial infections.

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An increase of neutrophilic leukocytes in blood or tissues; also frequently used synonymously with leukocytosis, inasmuch as the latter is generally the result of an increased number of neutrophilic granulocytes in the circulating blood (or in the tissues, or both). N. is usually absolute, i.e., there is an increase in the total number of leukocytes as well as an increased percentage of neutrophils; in some instances, n. may be relative ( i.e., there is an increased percentage of neutrophils), but the total number of all types of leukocytes may be within the normal range. SYN: neutrophilic leukocytosis.

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neu·tro·phil·ia .n(y)ü-trə-'fil-ē-ə n leukocytosis in which the increase in white blood cells is chiefly in neutrophils

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neu·tro·phil·ia (noo″tro-filґe-ə) increase in the number of neutrophils in the blood; it is the most common form of leukocytosis and can have any of numerous causes, including acute infections, intoxications, hemorrhage, and rapidly growing malignant neoplasms. Called also neutrophilic leukocytosis.