Neutrophils, crucial players in the effector phase of the immune response, are recognized as important mediators of both innate and adaptive immune responses. Through the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, they modulate the function of T and other lymphoid cells. Countless reports have highlighted the importance of these cells as efficient antimicrobial agents and annotated their involvement in the pathology of infectious and noninfectious diseases. The development of modern, sophisticated technologies has allowed the study of the functions of these cells in clinical settings. These advanced technologies include fluorescence-activated cell sorters, confocal microscopy, automated cell image analyzers, and live cell analysis instruments. Unfortunately, the cost of these modern instruments, maintenance, reagents, and the need for qualified technicians prohibit their use in low-income laboratories and universities in developing countries. With this in mind, we propose a series of basic tests that can be used in low-input clinical laboratories and universities to evaluate the function of neutrophils in health and disease. Our methodology allows us to assess in a practical and low-cost manner the functions of neutrophils in the phagocytic process, including opsonization, ingestion, ROI production (NBT reduction), myeloperoxidase content, phagosome-lysosome fusion, microbicidal activity, and NET production. Thus, under a disadvantageous ambiance, this may guide physicians in deciding whether a patient’s illness involves phagocytic defects without imposing a heavy financial burden.Graphical Abstract[-rId13-]
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