Low White Blood Cell Count (WBC)
The minimum number of white blood cells in adults is less than 4,000 cells per microliter per blood. Low levels of white blood cells may be indicative of a number of conditions, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, vitamin deficiencies, or adverse effects of cancer treatment.
What are white blood cells(WBC)?
White blood cells are formed in the bone marrow and are part of the immune system. White blood cells help the body to identify and fight off various infections and ailments. The human body produces about 100 billion white blood cells each day.
There are five major types of white blood cells:
- Basophils
- Eosinophils
- Lymphocytes
- Neutrophils
- Monocytes
Who is likely to have a low white blood cell count(WBC COUNT)?
Low levels of white blood cells can occur in anyone. The amount of white blood cells in the body can vary, depending on a person's age, race, and gender, and whether he or she has certain health conditions.
People who are being treated for a certain type of cancer may have lower white blood cell counts.
What causes a low white blood cell count(WBC COUNT)?
If a person has too many or too few white blood cells in the body, it could mean a disorder of some kind. The number of white blood cells less than 4,000 cells per microliter per blood is considered low. Sometimes low white blood cell counts are something you are born with (genetic condition), which may or may not be a cause for concern. Low levels of white blood cells are associated with certain conditions, including:
- Cancer (caused by chemotherapy)
- Bone marrow failure or injury
- Immune disorders (problems with the immune system where the body attacks), such as lupus
- Diseases (including tuberculosis and HIV)
- Immune system conditions
- Crohn's disease
- Malnutrition
- Radiation therapy for cancer
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Liver damage and / or enlarged spleen
How is a low white blood cell count (WBC COUNT) diagnosed?
To determine if a person has a low white blood count, the doctor will order a blood test known as a complete blood count. The doctor may order a complete blood count to check for a patient with certain conditions, such as infection or seizures. Some information from a complete blood count will help your doctor come up with a list of possible diagnoses. Your doctor may recommend referral to a hematology specialist.
What can I do to avoid/prevent a low white blood cell count (WBC COUNT)?
Reducing the risk of certain diseases and low white blood cell count:
- Practice cleanliness. For example, wash your hands after bathing and before cooking.
- Be careful around pets and other animals that can transmit diseases.
- Make sure the food is well cooked before eating.
- Stay away from infected people.
- Practice safe sex; avoid drugs and sharing needles.
When should I see a doctor about a possible low white blood cell Count (WBC COUNT)?
Ask your doctor if you are concerned about your white blood count (WBC COUNT) and whether you will need further tests. If your white blood cell count is low, and you feel like you have a disease, contact your health care provider immediately.