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Why does my WBC count fluctuate?

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

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My WBC count keeps fluctuating. First it gone up to 83000 from 10500 last month and then it became 12900. Now again for the past few days it is high at 22200. Can you please help with this issue?

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.

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

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

  1. WBC - white blood cell count varies in response to infection, inflammation, and various external or internal reactions.
  2. A bacterial infection could have increased the WBC count to 80000 with a high neutrophils count.
  3. As the count has returned to normal and is only mildly increased, there is nothing to worry about.
  4. If there are any immature cells or atypical cells in the blood, then only further evaluation is necessary.
  5. Differential leukocyte count is more important than total count. The count will usually vary in response to various conditions, and if increased or persistent then only it is worrisome.
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 14, 2016
Reviewed At February 14, 2024

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.

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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.

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