A white blood cell (WBC) count is a measure of the number of white blood cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of your immune system, and they help to fight infection. A high or low white blood cell count can signify a problem with your immune system. Your doctor may order a white blood cell test to investigate symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or an increased risk of infection.
NormalWBC Count
The normal range for a white blood cell count is between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter (mcL) in adults. However, the number of white blood cells in your blood can fluctuate during the day and in response to various factors, such as stress, exercise, infection, and pregnancy.
High White Blood Cell Count (Leukocytosis)
A high white blood cell count, also known as leukocytosis, is when the number of white blood cells in your blood is higher than 11,000 cells per mcL. Leukocytosis is a common response to infection, inflammation, and other injuries. It can also be caused by certain medications, such as corticosteroids and chemotherapy.
Low White Blood Cell Count (Leukopenia)
A low white blood cell count, also known as leukopenia, is when the number of white blood cells in your blood is lower than 4,500 cells per mcL. Leukopenia can be caused by a variety of conditions, including infection, autoimmune disorders, medications, and cancer. Leukopenia can increase your risk of infection.
A white blood cell test is a measure of the number of white blood cells in your blood. A high or low white blood cell count can signify a problem with your immune system. Your doctor may order a white blood cell test to investigate symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or an increased risk of infection.
what is wbc in blood test
White blood cells: Part of immune system.
- WBC count: Measure of white blood cells.
- Normal range: 4,500-11,000 cells/mcL.
- High WBC count: Leukocytosis.
- Low WBC count: Leukopenia.
- Leukocytosis: Infection, inflammation, injury.
- Leukopenia: Infection, autoimmune disorders, cancer.
- WBC test: Investigate symptoms.
- Fever, fatigue, weight loss, infection risk.
- WBC test: Part of routine blood test.
A white blood cell test is a simple blood test that can provide valuable information about your overall health.
WBC count: Measure of white blood cells.
A white blood cell (WBC) count is a measure of the number of white blood cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of your immune system, and they help to fight infection. A high or low white blood cell count can signify a problem with your immune system.
- Normal WBC count:
The normal range for a white blood cell count is between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter (mcL) in adults. However, the number of white blood cells in your blood can fluctuate during the day and in response to various factors, such as stress, exercise, infection, and pregnancy.
- High WBC count (leukocytosis):
A high white blood cell count, also known as leukocytosis, is when the number of white blood cells in your blood is higher than 11,000 cells per mcL. Leukocytosis is a common response to infection, inflammation, and other injuries. It can also be caused by certain medications, such as corticosteroids and chemotherapy.
- Low WBC count (leukopenia):
A low white blood cell count, also known as leukopenia, is when the number of white blood cells in your blood is lower than 4,500 cells per mcL. Leukopenia can be caused by a variety of conditions, including infection, autoimmune disorders, medications, and cancer. Leukopenia can increase your risk of infection.
- WBC test:
A white blood cell test is a simple blood test that can be used to measure the number of white blood cells in your blood. This test is often part of a routine blood test, and it can also be ordered if you are experiencing symptoms of infection, such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or an increased risk of infection.
A white blood cell test is a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of conditions. If you have any questions about your white blood cell count, talk to your doctor.
Normal range: 4,500-11,000 cells/mcL.
The normal range for a white blood cell (WBC) count is between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter (mcL) in adults. This range can vary slightly depending on your age, sex, and ethnicity. For example, children typically have higher WBC counts than adults.
- WBC count and infection:
When your body is fighting an infection, your WBC count will increase. This is because white blood cells help to destroy bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. A high WBC count is a sign that your immune system is working properly to fight off infection.
- WBC count and inflammation:
Inflammation is another condition that can cause a high WBC count. Inflammation is the body's response to injury or irritation. When you are injured, your body releases chemicals that cause inflammation. These chemicals can also cause your WBC count to increase.
- WBC count and other conditions:
A high WBC count can also be caused by certain medications, such as corticosteroids and chemotherapy. Additionally, some medical conditions, such as leukemia and lymphoma, can cause a high WBC count.
- WBC count and stress:
Stress can also cause a temporary increase in your WBC count. This is because stress hormones can stimulate the production of white blood cells.
It is important to note that a high WBC count does not always indicate a serious medical condition. However, if you have a high WBC count and you are experiencing other symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or an increased risk of infection, you should see your doctor right away.
High WBC count: Leukocytosis.
Leukocytosis is a condition in which the white blood cell (WBC) count in your blood is higher than normal. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, inflammation, and certain medications.
Infection:
Infection is the most common cause of leukocytosis. When your body is fighting an infection, your WBC count will increase. This is because white blood cells help to destroy bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. The higher the infection, the higher your WBC count will be.
Inflammation:
Inflammation is another condition that can cause leukocytosis. Inflammation is the body's response to injury or irritation. When you are injured, your body releases chemicals that cause inflammation. These chemicals can also cause your WBC count to increase.
Medications:
Certain medications can also cause leukocytosis. For example, corticosteroids and chemotherapy can both increase your WBC count. Corticosteroids are used to treat a variety of conditions, such as asthma and arthritis. Chemotherapy is used to treat cancer.
Other conditions:
Leukocytosis can also be caused by a variety of other conditions, including leukemia, lymphoma, and myelodysplastic syndrome. These conditions are all characterized by an overproduction of white blood cells.
Symptoms of leukocytosis:
Leukocytosis is often asymptomatic. However, in some cases, it can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, and an increased risk of infection.
Treatment for leukocytosis:
The treatment for leukocytosis depends on the underlying cause. If the leukocytosis is caused by an infection, the infection will need to be treated. If the leukocytosis is caused by a medication, the medication may need to be stopped or adjusted. In some cases, leukocytosis may not require treatment.
When to see a doctor:
You should see a doctor if you have a high WBC count and you are experiencing other symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or an increased risk of infection. Leukocytosis can be a sign of a serious medical condition, so it is important to see a doctor right away if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Low WBC count: Leukopenia.
Leukopenia is a condition in which the white blood cell (WBC) count in your blood is lower than normal. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, autoimmune disorders, medications, and cancer.
- Infection:
Some infections can cause leukopenia. This is because the infection can damage the bone marrow, which is where white blood cells are produced. Additionally, some infections can cause the spleen to enlarge, which can also lead to leukopenia.
- Autoimmune disorders:
Autoimmune disorders are conditions in which the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. This can damage the bone marrow and lead to leukopenia. Examples of autoimmune disorders that can cause leukopenia include lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Medications:
Certain medications can also cause leukopenia. For example, chemotherapy and radiation therapy can both damage the bone marrow and lead to leukopenia. Additionally, some antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications can also cause leukopenia.
- Cancer:
Cancer can also cause leukopenia. This is because cancer cells can crowd out healthy cells in the bone marrow, including white blood cells. Additionally, some cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can also damage the bone marrow and lead to leukopenia.
Symptoms of leukopenia:
Leukopenia can cause a variety of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, weight loss, and an increased risk of infection. This is because white blood cells help to fight infection. When you have a low WBC count, you are more likely to get sick.
Treatment for leukopenia:
The treatment for leukopenia depends on the underlying cause. If the leukopenia is caused by an infection, the infection will need to be treated. If the leukopenia is caused by a medication, the medication may need to be stopped or adjusted. In some cases, leukopenia may not require treatment.
When to see a doctor:
You should see a doctor if you have a low WBC count and you are experiencing other symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or an increased risk of infection. Leukopenia can be a sign of a serious medical condition, so it is important to see a doctor right away if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Leukocytosis: Infection, inflammation, injury.
Leukocytosis is a condition in which the white blood cell (WBC) count in your blood is higher than normal. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, inflammation, and injury.
- Infection:
Infection is the most common cause of leukocytosis. When your body is fighting an infection, your WBC count will increase. This is because white blood cells help to destroy bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. The higher the infection, the higher your WBC count will be.
- Inflammation:
Inflammation is another condition that can cause leukocytosis. Inflammation is the body's response to injury or irritation. When you are injured, your body releases chemicals that cause inflammation. These chemicals can also cause your WBC count to increase.
- Injury:
Injury can also cause leukocytosis. This is because injury can damage tissues and release chemicals that cause inflammation. Inflammation, in turn, can lead to an increase in WBC count.
Symptoms of leukocytosis:
Leukocytosis is often asymptomatic. However, in some cases, it can cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, and an increased risk of infection. This is because white blood cells help to fight infection. When you have a high WBC count, you are less likely to get sick.
Treatment for leukocytosis:
The treatment for leukocytosis depends on the underlying cause. If the leukocytosis is caused by an infection, the infection will need to be treated. If the leukocytosis is caused by inflammation, the inflammation will need to be treated. In some cases, leukocytosis may not require treatment.
When to see a doctor:
You should see a doctor if you have a high WBC count and you are experiencing other symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or an increased risk of infection. Leukocytosis can be a sign of a serious medical condition, so it is important to see a doctor right away if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Leukopenia: Infection, autoimmune disorders, cancer.
Leukopenia is a condition in which the white blood cell (WBC) count in your blood is lower than normal. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, autoimmune disorders, and cancer.
Infection:
Some infections can cause leukopenia. This is because the infection can damage the bone marrow, which is where white blood cells are produced. Additionally, some infections can cause the spleen to enlarge, which can also lead to leukopenia.
Autoimmune disorders:
Autoimmune disorders are conditions in which the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. This can damage the bone marrow and lead to leukopenia. Examples of autoimmune disorders that can cause leukopenia include lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Cancer:
Cancer can also cause leukopenia. This is because cancer cells can crowd out healthy cells in the bone marrow, including white blood cells. Additionally, some cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can also damage the bone marrow and lead to leukopenia.
Symptoms of leukopenia:
Leukopenia can cause a variety of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, weight loss, and an increased risk of infection. This is because white blood cells help to fight infection. When you have a low WBC count, you are more likely to get sick.
Treatment for leukopenia:
The treatment for leukopenia depends on the underlying cause. If the leukopenia is caused by an infection, the infection will need to be treated. If the leukopenia is caused by an autoimmune disorder, the autoimmune disorder will need to be treated. If the leukopenia is caused by cancer, the cancer will need to be treated. In some cases, leukopenia may not require treatment.
When to see a doctor:
You should see a doctor if you have a low WBC count and you are experiencing other symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or an increased risk of infection. Leukopenia can be a sign of a serious medical condition, so it is important to see a doctor right away if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
WBC test: Investigate symptoms.
A white blood cell (WBC) test is a blood test that measures the number of white blood cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of your immune system, and they help to fight infection. A WBC test can be used to investigate a variety of symptoms, including:
- Fever:
A fever is a body temperature that is higher than normal. Fever is a common symptom of infection. A WBC test can help to determine if the fever is caused by an infection.
- Fatigue:
Fatigue is a feeling of extreme tiredness or lack of energy. Fatigue can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, anemia, and cancer. A WBC test can help to determine if the fatigue is caused by an infection.
- Weight loss:
Weight loss is a common symptom of cancer. However, weight loss can also be caused by a variety of other factors, including infection, malabsorption, and hyperthyroidism. A WBC test can help to determine if the weight loss is caused by an infection.
- Increased risk of infection:
People who have a low WBC count are more likely to get sick. This is because white blood cells help to fight infection. A WBC test can help to determine if you have a low WBC count and are at an increased risk of infection.
A WBC test is a simple blood test that can provide valuable information about your overall health. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, your doctor may order a WBC test to help determine the cause.
Fever, fatigue, weight loss, infection risk.
Fever, fatigue, weight loss, and an increased risk of infection are all symptoms that can be caused by a variety of medical conditions. A white blood cell (WBC) test can be used to help determine if these symptoms are caused by an infection.
Fever:
A fever is a body temperature that is higher than normal. Fever is a common symptom of infection. When you have an infection, your body releases chemicals that cause your body temperature to rise. This helps to kill the bacteria or virus that is causing the infection.
Fatigue:
Fatigue is a feeling of extreme tiredness or lack of energy. Fatigue can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, anemia, and cancer. When you have an infection, your body is working hard to fight off the infection. This can lead to fatigue.
Weight loss:
Weight loss is a common symptom of cancer. However, weight loss can also be caused by a variety of other factors, including infection, malabsorption, and hyperthyroidism. When you have an infection, your body may not be able to absorb nutrients properly. This can lead to weight loss.
Increased risk of infection:
People who have a low WBC count are more likely to get sick. This is because white blood cells help to fight infection. When you have a low WBC count, your body is less able to fight off infection.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. A WBC test can help to determine if your symptoms are caused by an infection. If the infection is treated early, it can help to prevent serious complications.
A WBC test is a simple blood test that can provide valuable information about your overall health. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, your doctor may order a WBC test to help determine the cause.
WBC test: Part of routine blood test.
A white blood cell (WBC) test is often part of a routine blood test. A routine blood test is a panel of blood tests that are used to screen for a variety of medical conditions. Routine blood tests are typically performed as part of a regular physical exam or when you are experiencing symptoms of an illness.
Why is a WBC test part of a routine blood test?
A WBC test is part of a routine blood test because it can provide valuable information about your overall health. A WBC test can help to:
- Detect infection
- Monitor chronic conditions, such as leukemia and lymphoma
- Evaluate your immune system function
- Diagnose other medical conditions, such as anemia and cancer
What does a WBC test involve?
A WBC test is a simple blood test. A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory, where it will be analyzed to determine the number of white blood cells in your blood.
How often should I have a WBC test?
The frequency of WBC testing will vary depending on your individual health needs. If you are healthy, you may only need to have a WBC test once a year as part of a routine physical exam. However, if you have a chronic condition, such as leukemia or lymphoma, you may need to have a WBC test more frequently.
What are the risks of a WBC test?
A WBC test is a very safe procedure. The only risk is a slight pain or bruising at the site of the blood draw.
If you have any questions about WBC tests, talk to your doctor.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about white blood cell (WBC) tests:
Question 1: What is a WBC test?
Answer: A WBC test is a blood test that measures the number of white blood cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of your immune system, and they help to fight infection.
Question 2: Why is a WBC test done?
Answer: A WBC test may be done to investigate a variety of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, weight loss, and an increased risk of infection. A WBC test can also be used to monitor chronic conditions, such as leukemia and lymphoma, and to diagnose other medical conditions, such as anemia and cancer.
Question 3: How is a WBC test done?
Answer: A WBC test is a simple blood test. A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory, where it will be analyzed to determine the number of white blood cells in your blood.
Question 4: What is a normal WBC count?
Answer: The normal range for a WBC count is between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter (mcL) in adults. However, the number of white blood cells in your blood can fluctuate during the day and in response to various factors, such as stress, exercise, infection, and pregnancy.
Question 5: What does it mean if my WBC count is high?
Answer: A high WBC count, also known as leukocytosis, can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, inflammation, and certain medications. If you have a high WBC count, your doctor will likely order additional tests to determine the cause.
Question 6: What does it mean if my WBC count is low?
Answer: A low WBC count, also known as leukopenia, can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. If you have a low WBC count, your doctor will likely order additional tests to determine the cause.
Question 7: How often should I have a WBC test?
Answer: The frequency of WBC testing will vary depending on your individual health needs. If you are healthy, you may only need to have a WBC test once a year as part of a routine physical exam. However, if you have a chronic condition, such as leukemia or lymphoma, you may need to have a WBC test more frequently.
If you have any other questions about WBC tests, talk to your doctor.
A WBC test is a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of medical conditions. If you are experiencing any symptoms of infection, such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or an increased risk of infection, talk to your doctor about getting a WBC test.
Tips
Here are a few tips for maintaining a healthy white blood cell count:
Tip 1: Eat a healthy diet.
Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to boost your immune system and keep your white blood cell count in a healthy range. Some specific foods that are good for your immune system include citrus fruits, berries, yogurt, green tea, and garlic.
Tip 2: Get regular exercise.
Regular exercise is another great way to boost your immune system and keep your white blood cell count in a healthy range. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Tip 3: Get enough sleep.
When you don't get enough sleep, your immune system is weakened and you are more likely to get sick. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
Tip 4: Manage stress.
Stress can also weaken your immune system and make you more likely to get sick. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your white blood cell count in a healthy range and reduce your risk of infection.
A healthy white blood cell count is essential for a healthy immune system. By following the tips above, you can help to maintain a healthy white blood cell count and reduce your risk of infection.
Conclusion
A white blood cell (WBC) test is a blood test that measures the number of white blood cells in your blood. White blood cells are part of your immune system, and they help to fight infection.
A WBC test can be used to investigate a variety of symptoms, including fever, fatigue, weight loss, and an increased risk of infection. A WBC test can also be used to monitor chronic conditions, such as leukemia and lymphoma, and to diagnose other medical conditions, such as anemia and cancer.
A healthy white blood cell count is essential for a healthy immune system. By following the tips in this article, you can help to maintain a healthy white blood cell count and reduce your risk of infection.
If you have any questions about WBC tests or your white blood cell count, talk to your doctor.
Remember, a healthy white blood cell count is an important part of a healthy immune system. By following the tips in this article, you can help to keep your white blood cell count in a healthy range and reduce your risk of infection.