Leukocyten Waarde

Leukocyte Count: What It Means and When to Be Concerned

Leukocytes, also known as white blood cells, are an important part of your body's immune system. They help protect you from infection and disease. A leukocyte count is a blood test that measures the number of leukocytes in your blood. A normal leukocyte count is between 4,000 and 11,000 cells per microliter of blood. Leukocytosis or leukopenia or abnormal high or low numbers of leukocytes can be a sign of a medical condition. The most common cause of low leukocyte count is a viral infection, but it can also be caused by a bacterial infection, autoimmune disorder, or certain medications.

What Are the Symptoms of Leukocytosis?

Leukocytosis or an abnormally high leukocyte count can be a sign of a medical condition. The symptoms of leukocytosis can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Fever

Chills

Malaise

headache

Muscle aches

Nausea

Vomiting

Diarrhea

In some cases, leukocytosis can also lead to serious complications, such as sepsis or organ failure. If you experience any of the symptoms of leukocytosis, it is important to see a doctor right away. Leukocyte count is an important test that can help your doctor diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions.

What Are the Symptoms of Leukopenia?

Leukopenia is less common than leukocytosis and is an abnormally low leukocyte count that can also be a sign of a medical condition. The symptoms of leukopenia can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Frequent or severe infections

Fever that doesn't go away

Chills

Malaise

headache

Muscle aches

Nausea

Vomiting

Diarrhea

In some cases, leukopenia can also lead to serious complications, such as sepsis or organ failure. If you experience any of the symptoms of leukopenia, it is important to see a doctor right away.

What Causes Leukocytosis?

There are many possible causes of leukocytosis. Some of the most common causes include:

Infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal)

Inflammation

Tissue damage

Certain medications

Leukemia

Lymphoma

Multiple myeloma

What Causes Leukopenia?

There are also many possible causes of leukopenia. Some of the most common causes include:

Viral infections (such as the flu or HIV)

Bacterial infections (such as tuberculosis or sepsis)

Autoimmune disorders (such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)

Certain medications (such as chemotherapy drugs or antibiotics)

Bone marrow disorders (such as aplastic anemia or leukemia)

When to See a Doctor

If you have any of the symptoms of leukocytosis or leukopenia, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause is important to prevent serious complications.