Which of the following cells increase in number during an infection with parasitic worms?

• A. B lymphocytes
• B. Eosinophils
• C. Basophils
• D. Neutrophils

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of each cell type listed in the problem: B lymphocytes are involved in antibody production and adaptive immunity, eosinophils are specialized white blood cells that combat parasitic infections, basophils are involved in allergic responses, and neutrophils are the first responders to bacterial infections.
2. Recall that parasitic worms are multicellular organisms that trigger a specific immune response. The immune system often relies on eosinophils to combat these types of infections.
3. Learn that eosinophils contain granules filled with toxic proteins that are released to attack parasitic worms. This process is known as degranulation.
4. Understand that during an infection with parasitic worms, the body increases the production of eosinophils to effectively target and eliminate the parasites.
5. Conclude that eosinophils are the cell type that increases in number during an infection with parasitic worms, as they are specifically adapted to deal with this type of pathogen.