What type of white blood cell infiltration in the cornea is usually associated with active inflammation?

Neutrophils are the type of white blood cells that are predominantly associated with active inflammation in the cornea. This is due to their primary role in the immune response, where they are among the first responders to sites of infection or injury. Neutrophils are critical for the defense against pathogens and are known for their ability to phagocytize bacteria and release enzymes that can help to break down infected tissue.

In cases of corneal inflammation, such as keratitis, neutrophils migrate to the area in response to inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Their presence is often indicative of a significant inflammatory process, often tied to bacterial infections or severe tissue damage. This characteristic infiltration contributes to the signs of inflammation seen within the cornea, including redness, swelling, pain, and possibly discharge.

While other white blood cells such as macrophages and lymphocytes also play roles in the inflammatory response, their infiltration generally indicates a more chronic process or slower response to inflammation, as opposed to the quick, acute response that neutrophils provide. Eosinophils, on the other hand, are typically associated with allergic reactions and parasitic infections rather than direct bacterial or inflammatory processes in the cornea.