White Blood Cell Counts – what to know

White blood cell count or WBC, commonly listed as Total White Blood Cells, is found on a typical Complete Blood Count (CBC) lab test. This number is then split into the different components of the total in what is called the differential count, seen as lymphocytes, neutrophils, etc. One’s WBCs fight infection, and defend the body through phagocytosis, a destruction of invading pathogens. They also create antibodies that “tag” enemies, making them easier to recognize and kill.

Decreased WBC levels are associated with some chronic infections, immune insufficiency, and chemical suppression as seen with those undergoing chemotherapy. Elevated WBCs may be associated with infections and in those with some blood cancers.

Dr. Conners describes more in this video: