Cells at Work!

The chapter opens with a description of a white blood cell, or neutrophil, which is responsible for destroying foreign substances, such as germs and viruses, from the body's surface. It is also responsible for the production of sebum, a natural oil that protects and moisturizes the skin and hair. The chapter begins with a discussion of the role of this cell in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris, a common skin condition caused by excessive sebum production. The white cell explains that the cause of the inflammation is due to the presence of a nest of the acne bacteria in the pore of the hair root. He explains that he has found the nest of these bacteria and that he will not stand idly by and watch as the skin becomes inflamed and pus-filled. He also explains that his job is to prevent the spread of such a germ in the body. He tells the child that he is sorry that the child has suffered, but that it is not right for them to give up. The child, however, feels the same way. He feels that the white cell's presence in the scene is a sign of his suffering, and he begs the child to look at it and see what has happened to it.