Does white cell count variation cause serious problem?

Question

Hi doctor,

I just got blood test results. There are a few high levels, like cholesterol and uric acid. What concerns me is my WCC. It is normal at 7.6, but my lymphocytes are 4.6. They were 4.3 on a test done three months back. My neutrophils are 2.66 now and were 4.07 three months back. I have been checking for information and worked myself into a frenzy with the information online about blood cancer, hepatitis, HIV, etc. It is so confusing. I do have health anxiety issues, as my husband died from bowel cancer three years ago. I also had diarrhea and a sore throat a few days before the recent test. Any help would be appreciated. I also have fibromyalgia. Currently, I am taking Duromine 40 mg and Ibuprofen.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thanks for your query. I am really sorry to hear about your loss.

I have checked the attached files (attachment removed to protect patient identity) thoroughly. Apart from high normal cholesterol level, there is nothing to worry about. The white cell count is within normal limits. Regarding the lymphocyte count, it is very unlikely to indicate a serious condition, as it varies with simple viral infections. For the high cholesterol, I recommend Atorvastatin 10 mg once daily before dinner. Follow up cholesterol level will be required after one month of initiating the anti-cholesterol medication.

For more information consult an internal medicine physician.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

The neutrophils are the main cells that fight bacterial infections, as we are exposed to many bacteria every day. The counts are dynamic, with fluctuations that are normal. And there is nothing to worry about. When the body forms more types of cells, this could affect the other types of cells; for example, when the body forms more lymphocytes, this could lead to fewer neutrophils.

For more information, consult an internal medicine physician.

Thank you.