What is Leukocytosis?
Leukocytosis is a medical condition characterized by an increased number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the blood. White blood cells are an essential part of the body's immune system and help fight infections and other diseases.
Normally, the number of white blood cells in adults ranges between 3.5 and 8.8 x10⁹/L, but in leukocytosis, this range is exceeded.
Diagnosis of Leukocytosis
The diagnosis of leukocytosis is made through a LPK test, which measures the amount of white blood cells in the blood. If the values are significantly above the reference range, further investigation is needed. A differential count of white blood cells can provide detailed information about which cell types are elevated. This analysis is used to identify the underlying cause, such as infection, inflammation, or other medical conditions.
Causes of Leukocytosis
There are several reasons why a person may develop leukocytosis. Here are some of the most common:
Infections
Infections are one of the most common causes of leukocytosis. When the body fights an infection, such as bacteria or viruses, it produces more white blood cells to help combat the invaders.
Inflammation
Chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease can also lead to an increase in white blood cells.
Stress
Physical or emotional stress factors can sometimes trigger an increase in white blood cells as part of the body's natural stress response.
Medications
Certain medications, especially corticosteroids and adrenaline, can cause an increase in white blood cells.
Bone marrow disorders
Diseases affecting the bone marrow, where white blood cells are produced, can lead to leukocytosis. This includes certain types of leukemia.
Symptoms of Leukocytosis
Leukocytosis itself often does not cause specific symptoms but may indicate an underlying problem that requires investigation. Symptoms often depend on the underlying cause and may include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Night sweats
- Bruising or bleeding
Treatment of Leukocytosis
The treatment of leukocytosis depends on the underlying cause. If an infection is the cause, antibiotics or antiviral medications may be used to treat the infection and thereby reduce the number of white blood cells. Inflammatory conditions may require anti-inflammatory drugs or immunomodulating treatments to address the underlying inflammation. If leukocytosis is caused by medications, the doctor may need to adjust the dosage or switch to an alternative drug.
For stress-related leukocytosis, stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or therapy may help reduce the body's response to stress.