Could a person develop leukemia if their WBC counts are rapidly increasing after a stomach infection?

Question

Hello doctor,

My mother was suffering from a stomach infection that became severe, and she had to be admitted to the hospital. However, her WBC counts are increasing continuously, and the doctor suggested the possibility of leukemia. She was also constipated for three to four days, after which she was able to pass the stool. A bone marrow biopsy had also been carried out. There is no fever, and she is able to eat her meals. What could it be? I am very scared.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

I reviewed her reports (the attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). The total WBC (white blood cell) count is increasing, per reports. However, her differential count is not normal. One important finding to note is the presence of blast cells. The blast cells are usually seen in the case of leukemia. Although in leukemia, the presence of blast cells is usually more than 20%. But, I suggest not neglecting the presence of blast cells in her reports. I also suggest doing a complete blood cell count (CBC) and peripheral blood smear examination for her from another pathology laboratory.

I hope this has helped you.

Thanks and regards.

Could a person develop leukemia if their WBC counts are rapidly increasing after a stomach infection?

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