Leukodiapedesis

Leukodiapedesis (leukopedesis) is the process of the release of leukocytes from blood vessels into surrounding tissues. Leukocytes released into tissues are called blood leukocytes.

Leukodiapedesis underlies a number of pathological processes accompanied by the release of leukocytes into tissues (for example, sepsis, peritonitis, phlegmon, abscess).

The leukocyte released into the tissue changes its morphology, turning into a segmented leukocyte. However, when they enter the tissue, leukocytes lose their ability to phagocytose and die. In this regard, they play the role of an inflammatory factor, causing the death of surrounding tissues.

In sepsis, leukodiapedesis is one of the body's most important defense mechanisms. Segmented leukocytes released into the tissue have a bactericidal effect, destroying microorganisms.

Leukodiadesis is the release of leukocytes from the lumen of venules and small veins into the surrounding tissues by breaking through the walls of capillaries and veins. As a result, the number of leukocytes outside the vessels increases several tens of times. This phenomenon causes a serious disruption of microcirculation in tissues and disruption of their trophism. Unlike other types of diapedea, leukodiapedemia occurs during inflammatory processes, as well as after drinking alcohol. Leukocyte diapedesis occurs asymptomatically and, as a rule, is accidentally discovered during blood tests.