Leukocyte Count: Understanding Your White Blood Cell Levels

What is a Leukocyte Count?

A leukocyte count, also known as a white blood cell count, measures the number of white blood cells in your blood.

White blood cells are essential for fighting infections and protecting the body from disease.

The normal range for a leukocyte count is between 4,000 and 11,000 white blood cells per microliter of blood.

Types of Leukocytes

There are several types of leukocytes, each with a specific role in the immune system:

Neutrophils

Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell, accounting for 60-70% of the total count.

They are phagocytic, meaning they engulf and destroy foreign invaders.

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are responsible for recognizing and attacking specific antigens, such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins.

There are two main types of lymphocytes: B cells and T cells.

Eosinophils

Eosinophils are involved in defending against parasitic infections and allergic reactions.

They are also phagocytic.

Basophils

Basophils are the least common type of white blood cell, accounting for less than 1% of the total count.

They release histamine, which causes inflammation and dilation of blood vessels.

Leukocytes are produced in the bone marrow and circulate in the bloodstream.

When an infection or injury occurs, the body releases hormones that stimulate the bone marrow to produce more leukocytes.

Leukocyte Count Interpretation

A leukocyte count that is higher than normal (leukocytosis) may indicate an infection, inflammation, or stress.

A leukocyte count that is lower than normal (leukopenia) may indicate a bone marrow disorder, an autoimmune disease, or a viral infection.

The specific interpretation of a leukocyte count depends on the clinical context and other factors, such as the patient's symptoms and medical history.

Conditions Associated with Leukocyte Count Abnormalities

Leukocytosis can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Bacterial infections
• Viral infections
• Parasitic infections
• Inflammation
• Stress
• Leukemia

Leukopenia can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Bone marrow disorders
• Autoimmune diseases
• Viral infections
• Medications
• Radiation therapy

Leukocyte Count Testing

A leukocyte count is typically performed as part of a routine blood test.

The blood sample is collected from a vein in the arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

The results of a leukocyte count are typically available within a few days.

Conclusion

A leukocyte count is an important measure of the health of the immune system.

Abnormalities in the leukocyte count may indicate a variety of conditions, ranging from infections to bone marrow disorders.

If you have any concerns about your leukocyte count, be sure to talk to your doctor.

Leukocyten Waarde