ABSTRACT
This is a complex set of sequential processes, which include:
adhesion of leucocytes to microvascular endothelium in affected areas
migration of leucocytes through gaps between endothelial cells and across the basement membranes to reach the extravascular compartment
attachment of phagocytes to infecting microorganisms, to dead or injured cells or to foreign material at the site of injury
engulfment (phagocytosis) by the leucocytes of micro-organisms or cell/tissue debris
microbial killing or digestion of cellular debris by phagocytes
effects on surrounding cells/tissues of chemical mediators, either secreted or otherwise released from leucocytes.
