dust cell

al·ve·o·lar mac·ro·phage

a vigorously phagocytic macrophage on the epithelial surface of lung alveoli where it ingests inhaled particulate matter.

Synonym(s): coniophage, dust cell

al·ve·o·lar mac·ro·phage

(al-vē'ŏ-lăr mak'rō-fāj)

A vigorously phagocytic macrophage on the epithelial surface of lung alveoli where it ingests inhaled particulate matter.
Synonym(s): coniophage, dust cell.

dust cell

A macrophage that migrates into the lumen of lung aveoli and ingests debris, particles of air pollution, and pathogens to keep the airspaces clear.

See also: cell