Can weakness and enlarged lymph nodes cause high WBC count?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been consulting a doctor for over a month, and they keep checking my WBC. They told me to get it checked one more time, and if it is not better, I have to see a hematologist. I do not know what could be causing my results to be abnormal, so I am looking for an opinion.

My white cell count has been around 11 cells per cubic millimeter, and the lymphocytes have been around 4.49 cells per microliter. I had first consulted a doctor for fatigue and lack of energy. My lymph node in my neck also swells up for a day or two, then goes away. This has happened four times in the past two months.

Any idea what could be going on?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query, and I can understand your concern.

Your main complaint was recurrent swollen lymph nodes in the neck and weakness. However, your WBC (white blood cell) counts in the first report were mildly elevated, and there was no alarming rise. At present, your WBC count is within limits.

According to clinical correlation, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), autoimmune connective tissue problems, thyroid issues, and mononucleosis must be ruled out.

I would suggest that an investigation be needed with peripheral blood smear examination, ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) testing for HIV, antibody testing for mononucleosis, serum TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) estimation, T4 estimation (thyroxine test), ANA estimation (antinuclear antibody), rheumatoid factor estimation, and an autoimmune disease cell panel. If a specific cause is found, then they are treated accordingly.

When lymph node swelling occurs, it is better to take an FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology) from that lesion to rule out the nature of the lesion, whether it is a benign or malignant tumor or an infectious lesion.

Additional investigation with CRP (C-reactive protein) is also recommended. Your liver, spleen, and general lymph nodes should also be palpated. If no specific cause is found, then weakness might be from fibromyalgia. As far as the CBC (complete blood count) report is concerned, it is not very alarming in my opinion. Consult a physician or hematologist for examination and, accordingly, do further workup as needed.

I hope my answer will help you.

Thank you.