High White Blood Cell Count: Causes and Treatment Options

I. What is a High White Blood Cell Count?

A high white blood cell count, medically known as leukocytosis, occurs when the patient has more white blood cells in their bloodstream than is considered normal. White blood cells are essential to the body's natural defenses, helping to ward off infections, fungi and other threats to the immune system. However, when their numbers are too high, it could be a sign of a medical condition.

White blood cells are categorized into five groups: neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes. The normal range for white blood cell counts vary depending on age and sex, but generally range from between 4,500 to 10,500 white blood cells per microliter.

II. What Causes a High White Blood Cell Count?

A high white blood cell count can be caused by a variety of factors and conditions. These include infections such as the flu, ear infections or tonsillitis, certain medications such as corticosteroids, autoimmune diseases such as Crohn's disease or lupus, certain types of cancers such as leukemia or Hodgkin's lymphoma, and even stress.

In some cases, the cause of a high white blood cell count may not be identified. Such cases are referred to as "leukocytosis of unknown origin".

III. Diagnosis and Treatment Options

To diagnose a high white blood cell count, a doctor will take a blood sample and count the number of white blood cells present. If the count is higher than normal, the doctor may order a CBC (complete blood count) to pinpoint any underlying cause.

Treating a high white blood cell count will depend on the cause. If a bacterial infection is identified, antibiotics may be prescribed to help fight it. If the cause is an autoimmune condition, immunosuppressants may be suggested. Leukemia and other cancers involve a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy and/or stem cell transplants. In some cases, a high white blood cell count may be managed with lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress or incorporating healthy diet and exercise habits. In very rare cases, drugs or supplements may be prescribed to help bring the WBC back to normal.

It's important to talk to your doctor if your white blood cell count is high. They can help you better understand what is causing it and the treatment options that are available.