The White Blood Cell Count (WBC) is a blood test used to measure the number of white blood cells in the blood, which are essential for immune defense. It helps assess the body’s ability to fight off infections.
Indications for White Blood Cell Count:
● Infection: To detect infections such as bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
● Immune system disorders: To diagnose conditions like leukemia or lymphoma.
● Monitoring chemotherapy or radiation treatment: To check the immune system function during cancer treatment.
How White Blood Cell Count Works:
● A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory to count the number of white blood cells per unit volume of blood. The normal range is typically between 4,000 to 11,000 cells per microliter of blood.
Normal Range:
● Normal WBC count: 4,000 to 11,000 cells/μL.
Abnormal Test Significance:
● High WBC count: Can indicate infection, inflammation, or blood cancers like leukemia.
● Low WBC count: May suggest bone marrow problems, autoimmune diseases, or the effects of chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Price in India:
Approx. ₹300 – ₹500 for a white blood cell count.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an elevated WBC count mean?
It often indicates the presence of an infection, but it can also be caused by stress or inflammation.
Can a low WBC count be dangerous?
Yes, it can indicate a compromised immune system, making it harder to fight infections.
Disclaimer: The WBC count is a basic blood test that helps assess immune function and should be followed by further tests to diagnose specific conditions.
How HealthPil Can Help:
At HealthPil, we connect you with hematologists and infectious disease specialists to interpret your WBC count and guide treatment for underlying conditions such as infections or immune disorders.