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What Is Leukocytosis? Is it Cancer?

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Have you ever had blood tests that showed a higher-than-normal white blood cell count and wondered what it meant? If so, you are not alone. Many people face this situation (also called Leukocytosis), leading to a range of thoughts, often with one common concern: could this be cancer? Let's discuss.

What Is Leukocytosis?

Leukocytosis is a medical condition in which your blood has more white blood cells than normal. A slight increase in white blood cells is normal, as it represents your immune response to outside invaders.

It is important to mention that Leukocytosis is not always a sign of blood cancer. However, in some instances, it can be a sign of chronic myelogenous leukaemia, acute myeloid leukaemia, or chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, which are types of blood cancer.

Some common types of Leukocytosis are —

• Neutrophilic Leukocytosis —

This indicates an increase in neutrophil levels, which are responsible for healing damaged tissues.

• Lymphocytosis —

This refers to an increase in lymphocyte levels, which protect your body's lymphatic system.

• Basophilia —

This occurs when the basophil count rises above 200/μL. The primary role of basophils is to prevent blood clots and ward off parasitic infections.

• Monocytosis —

This indicates a higher level of monocytes, which help boost the immune response.

• Eosinophilia —

Caused by elevated eosinophil levels, this condition is often linked to autoimmune disorders, allergies, and parasitic infections.

What are the causes of Leukocytosis?

Some common contributing factors to Leukocytosis include the following —

• You may be diagnosed with Leukocytosis if you have a bacterial infection, Epstein-Barr virus, tuberculosis, or a parasitic infection.

• Leukocytosis can also be a temporary response to physical or emotional stress. This includes physical stress from surgery, trauma, or intense exercise, as well as emotional stress from anxiety or fear.

• Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease can cause long-term Leukocytosis, as the body continuously fights perceived threats.

• In some cases, Leukocytosis may result from bone marrow disorders. Conditions like leukaemia, myeloproliferative disorders, and other cancers that affect the bone marrow can lead to the uncontrolled production of white blood cells. You might not be aware, but bone marrow disorders also contribute to Leukopenia, causing low white blood cell levels.

• Certain medications can cause Leukocytosis as a side effect. For example, prolonged use of beta-agonists, corticosteroids, or lithium may result in an increased white blood cell count.

• Hereditary neutrophilia, caused by genetic factors, can also lead to Leukocytosis.

How Is Leukocytosis Diagnosed?

Depending upon Leukocytosis symptoms, your doctor may advise one of the following tests to confirm if the disease is Leukocytosis.

• Complete blood count (CBC)

Your doctor may advise a CBC test to check your white blood cell levels. It is normal if the range is between 4,500 and 11,000 per microlitre of blood. However, anything above that indicates the possibility of Leukocytosis.

• Bone Marrow Biopsy

This test is performed by removing a small bone marrow sample to examine blood cell production. The procedure is performed with a needle inserted into the hip bone under local anaesthesia. If Leukocytosis is suspected, the biopsy helps assess if the body produces excess white blood cells.

• Peripheral Blood Smear

This test involves spreading a blood drop on a slide, staining it, and then microscopic examination. If the medical practitioner observes any irregularities or abnormal shapes, it may signify Leukocytosis.

• Flow Cytometry

Flow cytometry test uses laser technology to analyse the characteristics of blood cells, including their size, shape, and the presence of specific markers. A blood sample is passed through the cytometer, and cells are counted and examined. The test can detect abnormal white blood cell populations if Leukocytosis is suspected.

• Molecular and Genetic Testing

This test involves analysing a blood or bone marrow sample to detect genetic mutations or abnormal gene expressions. Techniques like PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) or sequencing are used to identify changes in DNA that may cause abnormal white blood cell production.

Conclusion

Although Leukocytosis is not always life-threatening, managing the condition is crucial to prevent it from developing into blood cancer. To ensure you receive the best Leukocytosis treatment at a renowned hospital in your city without straining your finances, buying a health insurance policy is recommended. If your standard medical coverage does not include illnesses like cancer, it is advisable to supplement it with critical illness insurance.

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