Wright's stain, 500x

This microphotograph illustrates a basophil and a lymphocyte. The basophil belongs to the granulocyte family (of polymorphonuclear cells), and is characterized by a basophilic granulation of the cytoplasm. In domestic species, it circulates in such small quantities that it is infrequently observed in during a routine blood smear examination. These cells may circulate in greater numbers in association with hypersensitivity reactions.