White cell count

White cell count or leukocyte count is a test that measures the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the body. This test is often included in a complete blood count (CBC), a panel of tests that examines different components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Overview

White blood cells are an important part of the body's immune system, helping the body to fight off infections. There are several types of white blood cells, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Each type has a different function, but they all work together to fight infections and other diseases.

Procedure

A white cell count is usually performed as part of a complete blood count (CBC). This involves taking a sample of blood, usually from a vein in the arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory, where it is examined under a microscope or analyzed by a machine.

Interpretation

The normal range for a white cell count varies slightly among different laboratories. In general, the normal range is between 4,500 and 11,000 white blood cells per microliter of blood. A count higher than this may indicate an infection, inflammation, an autoimmune disease, or a blood disorder. A count lower than this may indicate a bone marrow disorder, a disease of the immune system, or a reaction to medication.

Abnormal Results

Abnormal results can be caused by a number of conditions, including:

• Infection: A high white cell count is often a sign of an infection.
• Inflammation: Inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can cause a high white cell count.
• Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis or type 1 diabetes can cause a high white cell count.
• Blood disorders: Conditions such as leukemia or lymphoma can cause a high or low white cell count.
• Bone marrow disorders: Conditions such as aplastic anemia or myelodysplastic syndrome can cause a low white cell count.

See Also

• Complete blood count
• Red cell count
• Platelet count

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