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WBC count


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WBC count

Alternative Names:

Leukocyte count; White blood cell count
Normal Values:

4,500-10,000 white blood cells/mcl (cells per microliter)


What abnormal results mean:
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Low numbers of WBCs (leukopenia) may indicate:

  • bone marrow failure (for example, due to infection, tumor, fibrosis)
  • presence of cytotoxic substance
  • collagen-vascular diseases (such as lupus erythematosus)
  • disease of the liver or spleen
  • radiation
High numbers of WBCs (leukocytosis) may indicate:
  • infectious diseases
  • inflammatory disease (such as rheumatoid arthritis or allergy)
  • leukemia
  • severe emotional or physical stress
  • tissue damage (for example, burns)
  • anemia

This test may be performed under many conditions and in many disease states.
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