Appearance of Granulocytes

Nucleus of the Band Neutrophil



  • The nucleus of a band neutrophil is sausage or band-shaped (U-shaped).
  • Sometimes it appears folded or twisted, thus making identification more difficult.
  • The nucleus stains a deep purplish-blue color, and the nuclear chromatin appears condensed, coarse, and clumped.

    • Review for ASCP Boards or test your clinical laboratory science knowledge with the FREE LabCE.com Quiz Game.

    Normal Peripheral Blood Cells course details »

    Learn more about medical technologist continuing education for MTs, MLTs, and other lab personnel »

    Get information on laboratory safety training for clinical and medical laboratories »