Increased white blood cell count refers to a medical condition characterized by an abnormal elevation in the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the bloodstream, which serves as an indication of an imbalanced immune response or an underlying medical condition. White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in the body's defense mechanism against infections, diseases, and foreign substances. Normally, the count of white blood cells in a healthy adult ranges from 4,000 to 11,000 per microliter of blood.
When the body detects an infection or an inflammatory response, it releases chemical signals that trigger the production of more white blood cells. This subsequent increase in white blood cells is known as leukocytosis. Increased white blood cell count can be categorized into two types: physiological and pathological. Physiological leukocytosis occurs in response to physical stress, such as exercise or dehydration, and is generally temporary. In contrast, pathological leukocytosis refers to a persistently elevated white blood cell count due to an underlying medical condition, such as infection, inflammation, allergies, leukemia, or autoimmune diseases.
Observing a significant rise in white blood cell count during routine blood tests can help doctors diagnose and monitor certain infectious or inflammatory conditions. However, an increased white blood cell count is not a definitive diagnosis but rather an indication of an underlying health issue. Therefore, further diagnostic tests, medical history analysis, and physical examinations may be required to identify the exact cause of the condition and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
