BASOPHILS
Both basophils and mast cells liberate heparin into the blood, thus preventing clotting. They also release histamine, bradykinin and serotonin, which cause elevation of these cells during allergic reactions on anaerobic membranes, and decreased during toxic reactions and infections.
Basophils are phagocytic in nature. Tissue basophils aka mast cells are similar to the basophils found in the blood. Basophils are also used to study chronic inflammation.
ABSOLUTE COUNT 15-50/ mm3
DIFFERENTIAL 0-1% OF TOTAL WBC's