My WBC level is 3.6. Is it a sort of cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am inquiring about a concern I have about my CBC results. I have shown a WBC of 3.9 for almost two years, and recently had a follow-up CBC, which showed 3.6.

I have felt like I have been fighting off a head cold and particularly stressed with the current virus situation. Do you think this kind of count is of any cancer? Of course, I got on the internet and got worried about things like leukemia or some sort of illness that could compromise my immune system with the current virus going on.

The other levels are below:

RBC: 4.5
Neutrophils: 56 %.
Lymphocytes: 31%.
Monocytes: 11.4%.
Eosinophils: .3%.
Basophils: .8%.
Platelet count: 292.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

First of all, I wish you very safe health during this COVID-19 crisis.

Coming to your question, I reviewed your records. And I am glad that you came up with your concerns. I will be happy to answer that based on my experience.

One thing that I can say confidently is that you do not have cancer. So good to hear those four words. Yes, that is not the way cancer presents, and not specifically at your young age.

Your lymphocyte count and neutrophil count are good, and there are no abnormal cells as well.

With regard to the current Coronavirus, I agree that we all should be vigilant. Your lymphocyte count and platelet count are good, and hence, blood work-wise, you need not worry. But I am sure you must be aware of when to get Covid-19 testing based on the symptoms.

Rest assured you do not have cancer; just get a lab check yearly.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Not really; different individuals have different thresholds for blood counts, etc.

Just like a few people can work by sleeping five hours and others need eight hours, but still both function properly for their body requirements, this might not be the best example, but the point that I wish to make is that we have a range for every value, and yours falls into the low normal range. But the major fighting cells are neutrophils, which, if you see, are in the normal range.

Also, these numbers will vary with time as body dynamics keep changing. Some days, just stress may make the numbers look high; that is how sensitive these numbers are. That is the reason that we have to see the whole picture, including the clinical features, the patient's profile, everything.

I am very confident at this moment in declaring you fit. Stay home, stay safe.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.