Medical Encyclopedia

Medical Encyclopedia

White blood cell count - series: Indication

 Indication

White blood cell count - series
Illustrations:

  • Indication
  • Procedure
  • Results

    • The White Blood Cell (WBC) Count measures two components: the total number of WBC's (leukocytes), and the differential count. The differential count measures the percentages of each type of leukocyte present. WBC's are composed of granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils) and non-granulocytes (lymphocytes and monocytes). White blood cells are a major component of the body's immune system. Indications for a WBC count include infectious and inflammatory diseases; leukemia and lymphoma; and bone marrow disorders.

    Update Date: 3/8/2007

    Updated by: Mark Levin, MD, Hematologist and Oncologist, Newark, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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