The presence of too many white blood cells can mean several things. As a vital component of the immune system, the body deploys white blood cells when it detects anything from a basic bacterial or viral infection, to a form of blood cancer (leukemia). While having an elevated or abnormally high white blood cell count does not necessarily indicate leukemia, the source of the condition will need to be identified if it is
found to exceed the levels and duration of a normal immune response to an infection. The main causes of elevated white blood cells include:
When a high white blood cell count is not caused by general infections and immune system malfunctions or responses, it may be an indication of a more specific issue or condition, such as:
Because a higher than normal white blood cell count is detected through a blood test, typically during a
diagnostic evaluation to find the source of a specific symptom or a set of symptoms such as listed above, it is important to get timely medical attention for any symptoms that seem out of the ordinary and do not resolve on their own over time. The board-certified oncologists and blood cancer specialists at the Cancer Center of Southern California in Los Angeles offer the most cutting-edge and state of the art diagnostic technologies available. Monocytes – largest of the white blood cells, have the exclusive ability to identify and engulf foreign particles Neutrophils – attach to the walls of healthy blood vessels in order to prevent access of bacteria and infections through cuts or wounds Lymphocytes – responsible for producing antibodies, lymphocytes also create immunity by storing a memory of the immune response once an illness or infection has been effectively targeted. Basophils – responsible for the production of histamines, anticoagulants, and antibodies, and are part of the immune system’s “first response” against foreign invaders. Eosinophiles – the main function of eosinophiles is to produce the toxins responsible for killing pathogens in the body, specifically parasites and worms. A high presence of eosinophiles in the body can be an indication of an allergic reaction. Next, read Leukemia Cell Treatment. A high white blood cell (WBC) count can develop due to many conditions. White blood cells are an important part of the body’s immune system. These cells help fight infection, aid in healing from trauma, and assist in recovery from disease. There are several types of white blood cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils, basophils, and monocytes) that act in different ways and may be increased in number in different conditions. This article will discuss symptoms of the conditions associated with a high white blood cell count, including common causes, tests, and treatments. Please see your healthcare provider for specifics regarding your condition.  svetikd / Getty Images Symptoms of a High White Blood Cell CountSymptoms of common conditions that may be associated with a high white blood cell count include:
Causes of a High White Cell CountInfections cause a high white blood cell count because these cells are the body’s way of eliminating infectious organisms—viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Many medical conditions are also associated with a high white blood cell count, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, cancer, and bone marrow disorders. When white blood cells are active, they can have several effects. These include:
What Medications Can Cause a High White Cell Count?Medications known to increase the WBC count include corticosteroids, lithium, colony-stimulating factors, beta-agonists, and epinephrine. How to Treat a High White Cell CountWhen a high white cell count is caused by an infection that is resolving on its own, as is the case with most viral infections, no medical intervention is needed beyond symptomatic treatment (such as getting rest or drinking warm tea to soothe a sore throat). Your healthcare provider may suggest ways to relieve the symptoms of the underlying condition that is causing the elevated white cell count. These treatments include:
These treatments may help you feel better, but they might not lower your white blood cell count. Other treatments that may be needed to treat the underlying condition include:
Some conditions, such as the autoimmune diseases rheumatoid arthritis and lupus or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), may require ongoing therapy. Complications and Risk Factors Associated With a High WBC CountBlood cancers and autoimmune diseases that cause overproduction of abnormal white blood cells can cause susceptibility to infections and impaired healing from injuries or diseases. Sometimes, a high white blood cell count is accompanied by anemia (a low red blood cell count). This happens when bone marrow disease that’s causing overproduction of white blood cells also causes underproduction of red blood cells. Are There Tests to Diagnose the Cause of a High WBC Count?A high white cell count is identified in a blood test called a complete blood count (CBC). This test provides a report of the number of white blood cells and red blood cells, as well as the types of each white blood cell and their percentage. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the normal number of white blood cells in the blood is 4,500 to 11,000 WBCs per microliter (4.5 to 11.0 × 109/L). In addition to a CBC, you might also have a microscopic examination of your blood sample (peripheral blood smear), which can determine whether the size or shape of the cells is abnormal. Some conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, can be associated with excess amounts of degenerate neutrophils, which are neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) that are dying. And some types of cancer can cause excess white blood cells that have an unusual microscopic appearance. When to See a Healthcare ProviderCall your healthcare provider if you feel sick, run-down, or have a fever for longer than a few days. If you have already been diagnosed with a chronic disease that causes a high white cell count, you and your healthcare providers should discuss the signs that your condition is worsening and develop a plan for when you should get medical attention. Get prompt medical attention if you develop any of the following:
SummaryWhite blood cells are part of the immune system that help fight infection and help you heal from disease. Your white blood cells can temporarily increase while you are recovering from an illness. Sometimes, medical problems associated with excess normal or abnormal white blood cells can cause symptoms such as fever, swelling, or congestion. A CBC can measure your white blood cell count. Medications can treat the underlying condition that is causing the elevated white blood cell count. A Word From VerywellHaving a high white blood cell count by itself usually is not a reason to worry. This is one of the signs that your body is fighting an infection or recovering from an illness. The chronic or serious illnesses that cause a high white cell count are often treatable with medication or other therapies. Frequently Asked Questions
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Heidi Moawad, MD Thanks for your feedback! What is the most common reason for high white blood cell count?Overall, the most common cause for a high white blood cell count is response to infection. Another potential cause of an elevated white blood cell count is leukemia. This is effectively a cancerous change of the blood and bone marrow which causes significant overproduction of white blood cells.
Is high white blood count serious?A high white blood cell count may indicate that the immune system is working to destroy an infection. It may also be a sign of physical or emotional stress. People with particular blood cancers may also have high white blood cells counts.
What happen if white blood cells are high?A high white blood cell count usually indicates: An increased production of white blood cells to fight an infection. A reaction to a drug that increases white blood cell production. A disease of bone marrow, causing abnormally high production of white blood cells.
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What could cause high white blood cell count
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