Which type of leukocyte is responsible for releasing vasoactive amines during an allergic reaction?

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the immune response, particularly during allergic reactions. They are known for their ability to release vasoactive amines such as histamine and leukotrienes when activated. These substances are key players in mediating inflammatory responses and can lead to symptoms commonly associated with allergies, such as swelling, redness, and itching.

Eosinophils become particularly prominent during parasitic infections and allergic conditions, where they act to help control and modulate the immune response. Their activation and degranulation during allergic reactions enhance inflammation by increasing blood vessel permeability and attracting other immune cells to the site of the allergen exposure.

In contrast, neutrophils provide a first line of defense against bacterial infections but do not have the same role in allergic reactions as eosinophils. Monocytes primarily differentiate into macrophages and are involved in phagocytosis and antigen presentation, but they are not directly responsible for the release of vasoactive amines during allergies. Macrophages, while integral to the immune response overall, also do not play a primary role in releasing these specific substances. Understanding the unique functions of each leukocyte type highlights the specialized nature of the immune response, especially in the context