White blood cells, or leukocytes, are key to our immune system. They help fight off infections and diseases1. A high count means our body might be fighting something serious2.
In adults, a normal white blood cell count is between 4,500 and 11,000 per microliter31. If it goes over 11,000, it’s a sign to check what’s going on23.
Many things can make white blood cell levels go up. This includes infections, inflammation, and even some cancers2. Knowing which type of white blood cell is high can help figure out the problem21.
Key Takeaways
- White blood cells are essential for the body’s immune response and defense against infections and diseases.
- A high white blood cell count, or leukocytosis, is when levels exceed 11,000 per microliter of blood.
- Various factors can cause elevated leukocyte levels, including infections, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, medications, and blood cancers.
- The specific type of white blood cell that is high can provide insights into the underlying condition.
- Diagnostic tests like a complete blood count (CBC) are used to identify and evaluate a high white blood cell count.
Understanding White Blood Cells and Their Function
White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, are key to our immune system, making up about 1% of our blood4. They fight off infections from bacteria, viruses, and other harmful invaders. When we get sick, our body makes more white blood cells to fight the infection.
There are different types of white blood cells, each with its own job. Granulocytes, like basophils, eosinophils, and neutrophils, are the most common. They are the first to defend us against infections45. Lymphocytes, including B cells, T cells, and natural killer cells, make antibodies to fight off germs45.
Role of White Blood Cells in the Immune System
White blood cells protect us from infection by finding and destroying germs. Each type of white blood cell has a special role:
- Neutrophils: They are the first to fight off bacteria by engulfing and destroying them4.
- Monocytes: With a longer life, monocytes help break down bacteria4.
- Lymphocytes: They make antibodies to target specific germs4.
- Basophils: Basophils release chemicals like histamine to help control the immune response4.
- Eosinophils: They attack parasites and cancer cells, and help with allergic reactions4.
The normal white blood cell count changes with age5:
| Age | Normal WBC Range (per mm³) |
|---|---|
| Newborn infant | 13,000–38,000 |
| 2-week-old infant | 5,000–20,000 |
| Adult | 4,500–11,000 |
| Pregnant women (3rd trimester) | 5,800–13,200 |
Having too many or too few white blood cells can cause health problems. Issues like myelodysplastic syndrome can affect white blood cell production in the bone marrow4. Some medicines can also change white blood cell counts, leading to disorders4.
White blood cells are the unsung heroes of our immune system, constantly working to keep us healthy and protected from the countless germs we encounter every day.
Normal White Blood Cell Count Range
A complete blood count (CBC) is a common blood test. It checks your blood for white blood cells. The normal count changes with age and other factors6.
For men, it’s usually 5,000 to 10,000 white blood cells per microliter (µL) of blood. Women’s counts are 4,500 to 11,000 per µL6. Kids have counts between 5,000 and 10,000 cells per µL67.
These numbers are not set in stone. Small changes might not mean you’re sick. But big changes could signal a problem. A low count, or leukopenia, is under 4,500 cells per µL in adults8.
An elevated count, or leukocytosis, is over 11,000 cells per µL in adults6. This could be from infections, autoimmune diseases, or leukemia68. Pregnancy can also affect white blood cell counts, making them rise6.
Counts change with age, too. Babies and kids have different ranges than adults7. For example, babies 0 to 2 weeks old have counts of 9,000 to 30,000/mm37. Adults usually have counts between 4,500 to 10,500/mm37. Knowing these ranges helps doctors understand CBC results better.
Keeping your white blood cell count within the healthy range is essential for maintaining a strong immune system and overall well-being.
Leukocytosis: High White Blood Cell Count
Leukocytosis is when you have too many white blood cells in your body. This usually means more than 11,000 cells per mm3 in adults who aren’t pregnant9. Normal counts are between 4,500 and 11,000 per mm3. If your count goes above this, you might have leukocytosis910.
Definition of Leukocytosis
Leukocytosis happens when your white blood cell count goes over 11,000 cells per microliter of blood10. Counts between 50,000 and 100,000 per mm3 might mean severe infections, organ rejection, or tumors. Counts over 100,000 per mm3 usually point to leukemia or myeloproliferative disorders911.
Causes of Leukocytosis
Many things can cause leukocytosis, including:
- Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to increased WBC production.
- Inflammation: Chronic inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, can elevate WBC counts.
- Immune system disorders: Autoimmune diseases and allergic reactions can cause leukocytosis.
- Medication side effects: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids and beta-agonists, can increase WBC counts.
The following table shows the normal white blood cell types and their related disorders:
| White Blood Cell Type | Normal Percentage | Associated Disorder |
|---|---|---|
| Neutrophils | 40–60% | Neutrophilia, inflammation, infections911 |
| Lymphocytes | 20–40% | Lymphocytosis, leukemia, viral infections911 |
| Monocytes | 2–8% | Monocytosis, cancers, various infections911 |
| Eosinophils | 1–4% | Eosinophilia, allergies, parasites, skin diseases911 |
| Basophils | 0.1–1% | Basophilia, leukemia911 |
Tests like Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential, peripheral blood smear, and bone marrow biopsy help find leukocytosis11. Treatment depends on the cause and might include medicines, lifestyle changes, and fixing any health problems11.
Symptoms Associated with High White Blood Cells
When white blood cell levels go above 4,500 to 11,000 per microliter of blood, it’s called a high count31. But, a high count alone doesn’t usually cause specific symptoms. The symptoms you feel often depend on the condition causing the high count.
Common Symptoms
A high white blood cell count might be linked to symptoms like:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite
- Joint swelling
- Itching
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Swollen lymph nodes3
These signs can point to infections, inflammatory disorders, autoimmune diseases, or even cancer. For instance, pneumonia might cause fever and trouble breathing1.
Asymptomatic Cases
Not all high white blood cell counts show symptoms. Many people with high counts don’t feel sick at all1. This is common when the count is only slightly high or temporary, like during pregnancy.
In pregnancy, white blood cells start rising in the first trimester, peak in the third, and go back to normal after six to eight weeks post-birth31. This increase is normal and usually doesn’t cause symptoms.
Infections and High White Blood Cell Count
When harmful pathogens invade the body, the immune system springs into action. It uses white blood cells as its first line of defense. These tiny warriors work tirelessly to identify, target, and eliminate the invading bacteria, viruses, or fungi. They ensure our bodies remain healthy and protected12.
The normal range for white blood cell count (WBC) is usually 4,500 to 11,000 cells per microliter13. However, during an infection, the body ramps up white blood cell production. This leads to a condition called leukocytosis, where the WBC count exceeds 11,000 cells per microliter of blood (11 × 10^9 per liter)1310.
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections are a common cause of elevated white blood cell counts. When bacteria invade the body, neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, rush to the scene. These cells are essential in fighting infections and promoting wound healing12. In response to the bacterial threat, the body increases neutrophil production. This results in neutrophilic leukocytosis10.
Viral Infections
Viral infections, such as the flu or COVID-19, can also trigger an increase in white blood cells. In these cases, lymphocytes, another type of white blood cell, take the lead. Lymphocytes play a vital role in the body’s defense system against infections. Viral infections are the most common cause of lymphocytic leukocytosis12.
Fungal Infections
Although less common than bacterial or viral infections, fungal infections can also cause leukocytosis. Fungal pathogens like Candida or Aspergillus can trigger an immune response. This leads to an increase in white blood cells as the body attempts to fight off the infection.
| Infection Type | Primary WBC Response |
|---|---|
| Bacterial | Neutrophilic leukocytosis |
| Viral | Lymphocytic leukocytosis |
| Fungal | Leukocytosis (various WBC types) |
It’s important to note that while an elevated white blood cell count is often a sign of infection, it can also be caused by other factors. These include stress, smoking, medications, and certain medical conditions13. If you experience symptoms like fever, fatigue, or persistent infections, consult with your healthcare provider. They can determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Inflammation and Elevated Leukocyte Count
Inflammation is a natural response to injury or illness. It can cause an increase in white blood cells. This increase is part of the inflammatory response that helps fight infections and heal wounds. However, chronic inflammation can lead to health problems14.
An elevated leukocyte count often means the body is fighting inflammation or disease, especially in older adults14. High leukocyte counts, especially neutrophil and monocyte, are linked to more inflammation and disease. This can increase the risk of heart and other diseases in older adults14.
Many things can cause an elevated WBC count. These include infections, inflammation, stress, autoimmune diseases, certain medications, allergies, viruses, and smoking15. When the body is fighting an infection or inflammation, it makes more white blood cells. This leads to a higher count16.
The normal white blood cell count varies by age and sex. For adults, it’s usually between 5,000 to 10,000 cells per microliter of blood. Men and women have slightly different ranges15. Children under 2 and newborns have higher ranges16.
Elevated normal leukocyte counts can signal chronic inflammation and poor health, especially in older people14. If you’re worried about your white blood cell count or have symptoms of inflammation, see your doctor. They can do a white blood count (WBC) test to check your levels and find any underlying issues.
Autoimmune Disorders and Increased White Blood Cell Count
Autoimmune disorders happen when the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissues. This leads to inflammation and symptoms. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis can raise white blood cell counts as the body fights off the perceived threat17.
A study looked at how genetics affect autoimmune diseases like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). It found links between these diseases and white blood cell counts. The study also showed that women are more affected, which is why these conditions are more common in them17.
Normally, white cell counts are between 4,000 to 11,000 cells per microliter of blood. Neutrophils, lymphocytes, and other cells make up different percentages of these white cells18. But in autoimmune disorders, this balance can be upset, causing WBC counts to rise.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis mainly affects the joints, causing pain and stiffness. The immune system dysfunction in RA leads to more white blood cells, especially neutrophils, as the body tries to fight inflammation17.
Lupus
Lupus, or Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), can affect many parts of the body. A study found a strong link between SLE’s genetic predisposition and WBC counts, even in areas with few disease cases17.
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis targets the central nervous system, causing damage to nerve fibers. The immune system dysfunction in MS leads to more white blood cells, especially lymphocytes, as they play a key role in the disease’s progression17.
The range for total white blood cell count varies by lab but usually falls between:
| Group | WBC Count Range (cells/μL) |
|---|---|
| Males | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Females | 4,500 – 11,000 |
| Newborns (under 2 weeks) | 9,000 – 30,000 |
| Children and Adolescents | 5,000 – 10,000 |
Diagnosing and treating autoimmune disorders often involves checking white blood cell counts. Treatment may include immunosuppressants, anti-inflammatory drugs, and therapies specific to the condition19.
Leukemia and Abnormal WBC Levels
Leukemia is a serious blood cancer that affects abnormal white blood cell production. In leukemia, the bone marrow makes bad white blood cells. These cells don’t work right and can build up in the blood, causing high WBC counts20.
Normal white blood cell (WBC) levels are between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter2122. If WBC counts go over 11,000, it means you have too many white blood cells22. Many things can cause high WBC levels, but leukemia is a big worry22.
Leukemia can be shown by high WBC counts. It also causes symptoms like fever, night sweats, and fatigue. Other signs include weight loss, bone pain, and bleeding problems22.
High WBC levels at diagnosis can mean leukemia is growing fast. This might mean a worse outlook22.
In the U.S., leukemia cases have stayed about the same since the 1970s20. But, more people are living longer with leukemia20. Each person’s survival chances depend on their type of leukemia20.
There’s no cure for leukemia, but some people can live for years without it coming back20.
Regular CBC tests help see if leukemia treatment is working. If it is, WBC levels should go back to normal22. More tests might be needed to confirm leukemia, like a bone marrow biopsy2122.
| Leukemia Type | 5-Year Survival Rate |
|---|---|
| Childhood ALL | 90% |
| Childhood AML | 65-70% |
| Adult AML | 29% |
| Adult ALL | 69% |
Note: Overall 5-year survival rates based on data from people diagnosed 5 or more years ago21.
Social networks like MyLeukemiaTeam can provide support and shared experiences for individuals dealing with leukemia and high WBC levels22.
Diagnosing High White Blood Cells
When white blood cell counts go above 4,500 to 11,000 per microliter of blood in women and 5,000 to 10,000 in men and kids, it might mean there’s a health issue15. This rise in white blood cells, called leukocytosis, can be due to infections, inflammation, allergies, autoimmune disorders, or even some cancers231.
To figure out why white blood cells are high, doctors start with a complete blood count (CBC) test. This test checks the levels of different blood parts, including the five main types of white blood cells: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils23.
If the CBC shows high white blood cells, more tests might be needed to find the cause. These could include:
- Blood differential: This test breaks down the types of white blood cells, like neutrophils and lymphocytes, to spot specific disorders23.
- Blood smear: A blood sample is looked at under a microscope to see how white blood cells look and work.
- Bone marrow test: Sometimes, a bone marrow biopsy is done to check how white blood cells are made and work.
More tests might be done based on what the doctor thinks might be causing the high white blood cells. These could be imaging studies, allergy tests, or tests for infections or autoimmune disorders.
Interpreting White Blood Cell Counts
Doctors look at both the total number of white blood cells and how each type is present. For example, neutrophils usually make up about 70% of white blood cells. Eosinophils and monocytes each make up about 5% to 12%15.
| White Blood Cell Type | Normal Percentage | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Neutrophils | 50-70% | Fight bacterial infections |
| Lymphocytes | 20-40% | Produce antibodies and fight viral infections |
| Monocytes | 2-10% | Eliminate dead cells and fight chronic infections |
| Eosinophils | 1-4% | Combat parasites and allergic reactions |
| Basophils | 0.5-1% | Release histamine during allergic reactions |
By looking closely at white blood cell counts and considering symptoms and medical history, doctors can diagnose leukocytosis well. They can then plan the right treatment for the cause.
Treatment Options for Leukocytosis
Treating leukocytosis focuses on fixing the root cause of high white blood cells. The approach depends on the cause, like infections, chronic diseases, or cancer24.
Treating the Underlying Condition
Fixing the underlying issue often solves leukocytosis. For example, antibiotics can clear bacterial infections and lower white blood cells25. Managing chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis can also help24.
For cancers like leukemia or lymphoma, treatment includes chemotherapy, radiation, and sometimes stem cell transplants24. The plan depends on the cancer type, stage, and the patient’s health.
Medications to Reduce White Blood Cell Count
In some cases, drugs are used to lower white blood cells. Leukapheresis is a procedure that removes excess white blood cells from the blood26. It takes 2 to 3 hours and may cause side effects like low calcium or allergic reactions26.
Some drugs, like corticosteroids, can increase white blood cells, causing leukocytosis25. Changing or stopping these medications may be needed to control the white blood cell count.
Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Changes
Living a healthy lifestyle is key to keeping your white blood cell count normal. Eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits and veggies is important. A study showed that people with more white blood cells ate fewer veggies but not less fruit27.
Also, eating foods that cause inflammation can raise your white blood cell count. A study found that a higher Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) was linked to more white blood cells28.
Regular exercise is also vital. It boosts your immune system and lowers body inflammation. Try to do at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of intense exercise each week. Plus, do muscle-strengthening activities two times a week.
Stress management is also crucial. Too much stress can increase white blood cells and cause inflammation. Try stress-reducing activities like meditation or hobbies. Getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night is also important for managing stress and staying healthy.
Good hygiene is key to preventing infections and keeping your immune system strong. Wash your hands often, especially before eating and after using the bathroom. Stay away from sick people and stay home when you’re feeling unwell.
For those with cancer going through chemotherapy, low white blood cell counts are common29. To help your immune system, follow these dietary tips:
- Eat high-quality protein to help make new white blood cells29
- Avoid raw meat, eggs, fish, and certain foods if you have low white blood cells29
- Take a multivitamin and mineral supplement with vitamin B12 and folate if your diet is poor29
Getting advice from a Registered Dietitian (RD) at a cancer center for a personalized nutrition plan is highly recommended29.
By following these preventive measures and healthy habits, you can support your immune system, reduce inflammation, and keep your white blood cell count normal.
Conclusion
Leukocytosis, or a high white blood cell count, can signal many health problems. These include infections and autoimmune disorders. Normal counts change with age, from newborns to adults.
Newborns have counts between 9,000 to 30,000 cells/µL. Infants and children have counts between 6,000 to 17,500 cells/µL. Adolescents have counts between 4,500 to 13,000 cells/µL30.
High counts can be due to infections, inflammation, allergies, blood cancers, or tissue death31.
Symptoms of leukocytosis include fever, fatigue, and swelling. Leukopenia, or low counts, can cause frequent infections and shortness of breath30.
If you’re worried about your white blood cell count, see a doctor. They can diagnose and treat the cause. Treatment might include antibiotics, steroids, or chemotherapy30.
Staying healthy is key. Eat well, exercise, and get medical help when needed. Vitamin B is crucial for making new white blood cells31.
Knowing about leukocytosis helps you take care of your health. It’s about addressing problems early and keeping your immune system strong.