MICROANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -[More on blood cells.] Monocytes are phagocytic cells which circulate in the blood. An equivalent cell type, called the macrophage, is a resident cell in connective tissue. Monocytes/macrophages engulf and digest foreign microorganisms, dead or worn-out cells, and other tissue debris.

Detailed explanation-2: -Leukocytes are white blood cells that are readily found in connective tissue. Lymphocytes (similar in size to red blood cells) are the most common connective tissue leukocyte. Aggregates of lymphocytes are often found associated with the mucosal epithelium of the GI tract, such as this slide of the esophagus.

Detailed explanation-3: -Macrophage Macrophages are phagocytic cells that are common in connective tissue. Macrophages are round to oval in shape (10-30 µm in diameter), and an eccentrically located, oval or indented nucleus. The cytoplasm appears to be “foamy” (because of numerous secondary lysosomes).