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Why is my WBC count high?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am a 66-year-old female. I am suffering from hypertension and diabetes for 20 years. I have got an implemented stent a month ago. I am taking medicines for the all above I have mentioned. In my recent blood count, my WBC is 70000. Why?
Answered by Dr. Prakash. H. M.

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prakash H. M. is an experienced Pathologist with expertise in clinical pathology, hematology, histopathology, and cytology. He plays a crucial role in accurate disease diagnosis through laboratory testing and microscopic analysis. With a strong foundation in medical diagnostics, Dr. Prakash ensures reliable and timely reports that support effective treatment decisions. His precision and commitment to quality make him a trusted expert in the field of pathology.

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Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on your query, my opinion is as follows.

  1. The white blood cell (WBC) count is very high, and so there is a need to look into the complete report, particularly the differential count.
  2. If neutrophils are high, possibly an infection.
  3. However, if the patient's physical condition is good without any infection and if any lymph nodes are enlarged, then leukemia may require evaluation. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia at this age could be a suspicion.
  4. A peripheral smear study would be essential.
  5. Need to look into the erythrocyte sedimentation rate too.
  6. Do get back with a complete report and, if possible, a peripheral smear report. Along with it, if more clinical details are available, further opinion is possible.

I hope this helps.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At February 6, 2016
Reviewed At January 9, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prakash H. M. is an experienced Pathologist with expertise in clinical pathology, hematology, histopathology, and cytology. He plays a crucial role in accurate disease diagnosis through laboratory testing and microscopic analysis. With a strong foundation in medical diagnostics, Dr. Prakash ensures reliable and timely reports that support effective treatment decisions. His precision and commitment to quality make him a trusted expert in the field of pathology.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

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High WBC Count?

Five quick questions help you understand potential reasons for a high white blood cell count and when to talk to a doctor.

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Dr. Prakash. H. M.
Dr. Prakash. H. M.

Hematology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Prakash H. M. is an experienced Pathologist with expertise in clinical pathology, hematology, histopathology, and cytology. He plays a crucial role in accurate disease diagnosis through laboratory testing and microscopic analysis. With a strong foundation in medical diagnostics, Dr. Prakash ensures reliable and timely reports that support effective treatment decisions. His precision and commitment to quality make him a trusted expert in the field of pathology.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
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